Original article ISPreview UK:Read More
Internet access and online security provider Gigabit IQ (formerly Grayshott Gigabit) has begun inviting selected people to invest in their company via crowdfunding, which they rightly warn is a “high risk investment” and one where those who make a commitment are “unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong“.
The idea of crowdfunding in this way is rather unusual for a broadband provider and isn’t likely to scale as well as shares or direct investment agreements (e.g. private equity, debt, bank loans, public subsidy etc.). But for a smaller provider, it could still have some benefits, provided you’re willing to accept the risks.
According to an email sent out by Gigabit IQ, which was seen by Thinkbroadband, the scheme is currently in the “pre-launch” phase. Due to this, we don’t yet know much about how the crowdfunding campaign will operate, what it will seek to raise, its eligibility rules or how the funding will then be used (i.e. will it go toward FTTP network expansion, development of their wholesale internet security products or be used more generally?).
Gigabit IQ’s Email Invite
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high risk investment and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong
Hi, we’re crowdfunding! What began as a community project in Grayshott is now expanding across the UK. As one of the people who supported us early, we’d love you to join our national journey by offering you the exciting opportunity to share in the exclusive pre-launch to join Gigabit IQ’s first investment round before our crowdfunding campaign goes public.
At Gigabit IQ, we’re not just another broadband company. We are redefining the ISP space by combining full-fibre gigabit speeds, award-winning managed Wi-Fi, and AI-driven online safety tools to protect families, schools, and businesses.
Here’s why now is the right time to get involved:
1. Proven traction: We’ve doubled our customers in the past year and achieved 3x revenue growth in 3 years.
2. Massive addressable market: With access to 1.5 million homes across the UK, we can serve over 500 towns and villages.
3. Award-winning innovation Winner: Best UK Rural ISP and Best OTT Service.
4. Shortlisted: 5x nominations at the ISPA 2025 Awards.
5. Industry leadership in online safety: We’re working with Internet Matters
6. Community-first model: We actively support schools and PTAs, and we’re launching
Overall, it’s an interesting idea, although much will depend upon the detail and what they’re actually planning to do. All of this is very important because Gigabit IQ isn’t a large, familiar brand like some of the market’s other players. People who commit their money to this will want to know precisely what it’s going to support and what targets will be set to ensure some accountability on the delivery side.