computer and technology services

Pax8 CVP Rob Rae Takes Center Stage at 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention

CARROLLTON, Texas — Rob Rae, CVP of Community and Ecosystems with Pax8, a leading cloud commerce marketplace, recently joined tech industry leaders at the 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida. Rae discussed future opportunities for Managed Services Providers (MSPs), and the economic outlook and opportunities ahead for NerdsToGo, a leading IT solutions provider for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Rae, whose company partners with 30,000 MSPs and 92 global tech vendors, stressed that AI-driven automation will sharpen digital performance and service quality. While the managed IT solutions category is changing, “it is growing rapidly,” as MSPs continue to add new services, said Rae. The future is happening right in front of our eyes, he emphasized, and those harnessing AI and automation will outpace competitors by delivering smarter, more personalized solutions that help customers make more informed choices.

“Rob is an established, respected figure in the MSP space as one of the founding members of Datto, and we were honored to have him as one of our featured convention speakers,” said Jim Howe, President of NerdsToGo, which celebrated a landmark year of development and market expansion. “His experience, knowledge and understanding of the dynamic opportunities for NerdsToGo speaks to the MSP industry experiencing dynamic growth, and the significant opportunities for our NerdsToGo franchisees to grow their business customer base and managed endpoints.”

Additional speakers at the NerdsToGo convention included Sean Lardo, a ConnectWise evangelist, who spoke about the shift to remote work during the Covid era and increased demand for IT support among SMBs. Lardo noted MSP services have experienced a substantial revenue increase of over 70% globally since 2018, a surge driven by digital migration and sustained customer relationships that emphasize the value of MSPs to small businesses.

“By embracing the latest technologies and customizing services based on data and cloud capabilities, our franchise owners can capitalize on these value-added solutions and thrive in a rapidly evolving IT landscape,” said Howe.

Speakers also highlighted ways MSPs can demonstrate real value and differentiate themselves in the market. A recurring topic at the event was the increase in transactions within the MSP sector, as well as the use of data and cloud technologies to enhance MSP capabilities in offering customized service bundles.

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo®, a leading IT solutions provider, recently honored Mike Triolo, owner of NerdsToGo Cary, N.C., with The Nerdy Award at the 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida. The Nerdy Award recognizes a franchisee who best represents the concept and spirit of the NerdsToGo brand. A leading local managed services provider (MSP), Triolo was acknowledged for his commitment and success as his business continues to thrive and grow in one of the top tech hubs in the country.

“I am honored to have received The Nerdy Award and to be recognized among such an esteemed group of peers,” said Triolo, who increased his monthly recurring revenue tenfold over the prior year. “I’m eager to continue to leverage the incredible support and resources provided by NerdsToGo to deliver expert IT solutions in my community.”

“We were thrilled to honor Mike Triolo with The Nerdy Award for excellence which highlights the success that can be achieved within our network and the potential that our franchisees have to capitalize on the IT managed services sector’s robust revenue opportunities,” said Jim Howe, Brand President of NerdsToGo.

The 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention spotlighted franchisee success and network growth, underscoring the MSP industry’s expansion and NerdsToGo’s growing national footprint.

Triolo, who serves on the NerdsToGo franchise advisory committee, shared high praise for this year’s convention. “The convention not only celebrated our network’s milestones, it set the stage for my own continued focus on IT solutions customized for small and midsize businesses. Delivering on our brand promise of being the go-to technology expert and trusted advisor for my customers drives everything I do,” said Triolo.

NerdsToGo franchisees in attendance participated in multiple events including networking, roundtable discussions, a vendor show and insights from leading IT industry thought leaders. The convention also emphasized the opportunities for franchise owners in the thriving managed IT services sector.

“This year’s convention was a vibrant showcase of the strength and success of our franchise community,” said Howe. “This convention’s palpable enthusiasm sets the stage for an exciting year ahead for our franchisees.”

NerdsToGo, Cary, N.C. is located at 8565 Chapel Hill Road and is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

With an unprecedented number of franchisees in attendance, the conference was a reflection of the managed services industry’s robust growth and the brand’s growing U.S. presence. The event included networking opportunities for franchisees, roundtable discussions, and a comprehensive vendor show. Recognized leaders in the MSP industry, including Sean Lardo, a ConnectWise evangelist, and Rob Rae, CVP of Community and Ecosystems at Pax8, shared their expertise on growing a successful MSP business.

“Our 2024 convention brought our franchise network together to celebrate and recognize their many achievements, as well as to engage in both networking and educational opportunities,” said Jim Howe, President of NerdsToGo. “The excitement from the convention is contagious, and it was the perfect way to begin a successful 2024, especially against the backdrop of significant industry growth. This growth not only highlights the achievements of our franchisees but also opens up a wealth of opportunities for owners to grow revenue and reach new heights in the managed IT services sector.”

Highlights from the 2024 Awards Dinner at the Convention include:

• The award recognizing the Highest Volume locations in Sales Achievement were presented to Regis DeVeaux: NerdsToGo of Alexandria, Va.; Kevin Martin: NerdsToGo of Franklin, Mass.; and NerdsToGo of Bellevue, Wash. team led by Michael Santiago.
• The President’s Award, which recognizes the top NerdsToGo locations with the highest total sales, was given to Regis DeVeaux: NerdsToGo of Alexandria, Va.; Kevin Martin: NerdsToGo of Franklin, Mass.; Gina and Michael Santiago: NerdsToGo of Bellevue, Wash.; David Alcorn: NerdsToGo of Kemah, Texas; Rory Dunnaback: NerdsToGo of Milwaukie, Ore.; and Erik Nelson: NerdsToGo of Swarthmore, Pa.
• Susan and Don Dally of NerdsToGo of Knoxville, Tenn., were recognized with the Rookie of the Year Award, which honors the franchisee with the highest sales for the first full 12 months of operation.

“NerdsToGo is at the forefront of providing franchisees the support they need to be successful in the growing IT solutions industry,” said Regis DeVeaux, franchise owner of the Alexandria, Va. location. “I’m proud to be part of a network that is not only thriving but also embracing new strategies for revenue growth and operational efficiency.”

NerdsToGo of Bellevue Recognized For Their Contributions to the NerdsToGo Network.

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo^® of Bellevue, a leading information technology (IT) solutions and technology services franchise for both business and home, recently were acknowledged for their contributions to the NerdsToGo network at the 2023 NerdsToGo Franchise Convention held in Las Vegas, NV.

The Nerdy Award recognizes a franchisee who best represents the concept and the spirit of the NerdsToGo name, both in the business community and within the network. Gina and Michael Santiago, franchisees at NerdsToGo of Bellevue, were chosen to receive the award because they excel at helping customers and employees achieve their objectives and realize their full potential. They continue to build deep and lasting relationships with customers, vendor partners and employees. The Santiagos bring their values of generosity and cooperation to life as they work with other franchisees to increase the strength, size and integrity of the network.

“Gina and Michael are truly champions of the NerdsToGo brand, and we have experienced how they do all they can to build the value of the brand,” said Jim Howe, President of NerdsToGo.

Michael Santiago purchased NerdsToGo of Bellevue in May 2018 after he walked away from the corporate world to create something more meaningful to his career and community. NerdsToGo combined his passions of technology, working with a small team and the desire to truly make an impact in his community.

“White glove service is an ethos to me, and our business and team are extensions of who we are. If we don’t deliver a great experience and care for the people, nothing else matters to me,” said Michael Santiago.

Michael first met Gina at a local chamber of commerce event, and she later became a consultant, helping him grow his business and improve his processes. As COVID began to ramp, Gina joined the Bellevue team full-time. Michael and Gina had to pivot and think quickly to keep their business moving forward. And at some point along the way, the two realized they worked so well together they joined hands in marriage as well as the business.

“Gina is my greatest advisor and sounding board,” said Michael Santiago. “There’s been a maturation process for our business, and we each bring our different talents to the table. I rally the troops and inspire our team to tackle any mountain, while Gina masterfully creates processes and systems to help us achieve our goals.”

Additional Awards that NerdsToGo of Bellevue received at the 2023 Convention were:

• The President’s Award, which recognizes the top 25% of NerdsToGo locations with the highest total sales from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
• 2nd in Highest Overall Sales Growth for achieving the highest overall sales growth for the award year over prior full year sales.
• Franchise Sales Recognition which honors franchisees who, over the past year, have been helpful to prospective franchisees in learning what it’s like to be a part of the NerdsToGo community.
• Mentor Recognition, which is when a seasoned franchisee serves as a mentor to a new franchisee as they start on the road to opening their operation. The franchisee is recognized for their dedication, leadership and sharing their real-world experience.

“We truly love helping the network and receiving this recognition showed us that they also believe we are helping the network,” said Gina Santiago. “We are over the moon and so full of gratitude at the same time. This honor marked many years of hard work and dedication to our business and brand, and the celebration we received from our peers was incredible.”

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo®, a leading information technology (IT) solutions and technology services franchise for both business and home, recently held its 2023 NerdsToGo Franchise Convention in Las Vegas, NV. Themed IT’s Time, the multiple-day event celebrated franchisee achievements and the growth initiatives of the network.

Over 90 % of the NerdsToGo network attended in addition to key vendor partners and corporate staff members. Attendees represented 35 locations in the US. and included a Vendor Showcase featuring 25 vendors.

Attendees heard from Brian Seurth, President of Technology Assurance Group (TAG), an organization of leading managed technology services providers (MTSPs), and Partner at i-NETT, southern California’s top MTSP. Seurth shared insights and best practices for growing a successful MSP business. Attendees also heard from Steve LeFever, a successful entrepreneur and Chairman of Profit Mastery, who spoke about how franchise business owners can identify and amplify their  financial performance.

Highlights from the 2022 Awards Dinner at the Convention include:

• The President’s Award, which recognizes the top 25% of NerdsToGo locations with the highest total sales from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021, was given to David Alcorn: League City, TX, Regis Deveaux: NerdsToGo Alexandria, VA, Rory Dunnaback: NerdsToGo of Milwaukie, OR, Kevin Martin: NerdsToGo of Franklin, MA, Erik Nelson: NerdsToGo of Swarthmore, PA, Gina & Michael Santiago: NerdsToGo of Bellevue, WA, and Angel Soto: NerdsToGo of Las Vegas, NV.
• Charles Bailey and Matt Swearingen with NerdsToGo of Moon Township/Pittsburgh, PA won The Rookie Award, which honors the franchisee with the highest sales for the first full 12 months of operation.
• The three awards for Highest Volume Centers in Sales Achievement were given to Regis Deveaux: NerdsToGo of Alexandria, VA, Rory Dunnaback: NerdsToGo of Milwaukie, OR, and Kevin Martin: NerdsToGo of Franklin, MA.
• Caesar Serralta: NerdsToGo of Las Vegas, NV received The Nerd Know-How award which recognizes the Nerd in the network who exemplifies outstanding leadership and strong business acumen, demonstrating the desire to make a difference every day. Committed to excellence of service, this individual contributes daily to the success and growth of their NerdsToGo store.
• Gina & Michael Santiago received The Nerdy Award, an award that recognizes a franchisee that best represents the concept and the spirit of the NerdsToGo name, both in the business community and within the network. They excel in helping customers and employees achieve their objectives and realize their full potential while they build deep relationships with their customers. Michael and Gina define generosity and cooperation in working with other franchisees to increase the strength, size and integrity of the network. They are truly champions of the NerdsToGo brand, doing all they can to build the value of the brand.

“Our 2023 convention brought our franchise network together to celebrate and recognize their many achievements, as well as to engage in both networking and educational opportunities,” said Jim Howe, President of NerdsToGo. “The excitement from convention is contagious, and it was the perfect way to begin a successful 2023.”

“Joining a franchise is like joining a family. The convention offers the opportunity to connect with those who share the same challenges and struggles. It also enables us to celebrate victories, look at things from a fresh perspective, catch a glimpse of successes to come, and share our stories to benefit others in our network. I always come away feeling better about where I’m going,” said Pete Holczinger, franchisee at NerdsToGo of Green Brook, New Jersey.

Leading technology brand continues growth trajectory into the new year.

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo^®, a leading information technology (IT) solutions and technology repair services franchise for both business and home, ended the year with expansion into new markets and an updated look following a brand refinement earlier this year.

The fast growing brand brought its services to multiple new markets in 2022 including Tigard, OR; Wilmington, NC; Greenbook, NJ; and Everett, WA with a continued focus on driving IT solutions for small to medium-sized businesses, as well as the individual who needs help with personal computers.

“NerdsToGo’s growth throughout 2022 is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our franchisees, the quality of our services and the strength of our business model,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands, parent company of NerdsToGo. “With our expansion this year into new markets across the country, NerdsToGo has further established itself as a leader in the industry helping businesses overcome the pain points of technology while providing a recurring revenue stream for franchisees.”

Ellen King, owner of NerdsToGo Wilmington, selected NerdsToGo as she was looking for a franchise that helped people. “If I want to do good in this world, I want to do something that is really going to be helping people and working with people that have the knowledge and skillset to do that,” said King. “Our culture is embedded with technology from banking to payroll. Small businesses often can’t afford to hire full-time IT, yet they still have a need for IT solutions such as protecting data and their customers. With the support of a great franchise umbrella company like Propelled and peer group support of other franchisees, it has been less intimidating starting my own business.”

NerdsToGo’s growth coincides with a refinement of the brand’s visual identity earlier this year, including an updated logo and restaged brand character, “Nerdy.” The refinement achieved the intent of contemporizing and elevating the brand while retaining the qualities of approachability and tech expertise the brand champions.

“By updating and reimagining our brand identity, NerdsToGo^® has an opportunity to stand out in the crowd more than ever, digitally and in person,” said Jim Howe, brand president of NerdsToGo.

NerdsToGo is seeking qualified franchisees to be an owner via a manager-run executive model or as an owner operator to help the brand grow across the United States. Prospective franchisees do not need experience in information technology, but they should have a strong desire to grow a successful business in their local community, developing relationships with small business owners to become their outsourced IT department.

The initial investment for a NerdsToGo franchise is approximately $146,200 – $217,050, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, NerdsToGo offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875.

For information about the NerdsToGo^® franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679)

About Propelled Brands^®:

Propelled Brands is the multi-brand platform company of FASTSIGNS^®, SIGNWAVE^®, NerdsToGo^® and Suite Management Franchising, LLC, the parent company of MY SALON Suite^® and Salon Plaza^®. Propelled Brands advances the strategic path for each brand, offering support, guidance and a clear vision to fully equip every franchisee, helping them maximize success.

Experienced Business Professional Brings Expertise to Tigard Market.

TIGARD, Ore. — NerdsToGo®, a leading provider of IT Solutions for Business and Home, opened a brand new location in Tigard, Oregon. The newest location (12540 SW Main Street, Suite 110) is under the direction of owner and operator Rory Dunnaback.

Dunnaback, along with his father John Dunnaback, opened a Milwaukie NerdsToGo in 2018. A Portland resident, Rory saw a geographical competitive advantage to opening a store in Tigard, which is west of Portland. The Tigard launch serves a growing need in metro areas for tech services as the reliance on such services becomes more important than ever post-pandemic.

“A lot had to do with geography,” he said. The location fits with his marketing strategy and goal of having more exposure with locations east and west of Portland.

The Tigard location offers even greater brand exposure due to the retail storefront and strong downtown community surrounding it. This store location on Tigard’s main street brings great visibility. It’s also the first store in the U.S. to initiate the recent brand refresh. Dunnaback’s first location is in downtown Milwaukie on Main Street–those in the area might have seen the signature yellow Nerd vans around town or have worked with the friendly, approachable Nerds as they help make technology less intimidating.

As local economies begin to come back to main streets, this is great for business and brand recognition in the heart of the downtown area, Dunnaback said.

“I’m really proud to have both of my businesses on main streets,” he said. “It’s very small-town America.” Dunnaback was named Franchisee of the Year and won the Nerdy Award earlier this year, which recognizes an individual that excels in helping customers and employees achieve their full potential.

As a managed service provider, NerdsToGo offers a variety of services for small to medium sized businesses including: Server and PC Monitoring, Data Back-up and Disaster Recovery, Cloud Hosting and Microsoft Office Support. NerdAssure, a proprietary bundle of IT services scaled and priced for small businesses, is created for small companies who don’t have the resources to employ full time IT specialists. Home services tailored to the individual include Computer Repair, Internet trouble-shooting and cybersecurity solutions.

Dunnaback’s interest in opening NerdsToGo began with a desire to open a family business with his dad. Yet, he’s long been involved with IT solutions, as well as the role technology plays in people’s lives since majoring in information technology at Michigan State and then establishing a career in healthcare technology. In addition to operating NerdsToGo franchises, Rory is an involved member of his community, serving as President of the Downtown Milwaukie Business Association.

Rory is also a member of the Westside Professional Business Association that has been around since the late 1970s. He is also on the board of the North Clackamas Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Tigard Chamber of Commerce and a Chair of the North Clackamas Education Foundation.

Dunnaback will host a grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting on May 5th at 2pm.

For more information and to see the services offered visit www.nerdstogo.com.

Emerging technology brand unveils rebrand with an eye-catching, contemporary look

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo®, a fast growing information technology (IT) solutions and technology repair services franchise for both business and home, is moving forward as fast as it’s growing, with a new visual look and feel, with a new color palette, font, and restaged brand character, “Nerdy.”

“By updating and reimagining our brand identity, NerdsToGo® has an opportunity to stand out in the crowd more than ever, digitally and in person,” said Jim Howe, Brand President of NerdsToGo. “The refinement reinforces NerdsToGo® as an emerging brand in the technology industry. We are positioning the brand for the future while maintaining customer confidence in our Nerds abilities and capabilities which encompass complete business and home IT technology needs.”

NerdsToGo is adding more locations in new territories. They are projected to open over ten additional locations in 2022. “The refinement of our logo and our ‘Nerdy’ character achieves our intent of contemporizing and elevating the brand while retaining the qualities of approachability and tech expertise the brand stands for,” said Jennifer Herskind, Chief Marketing Officer.

The new logo was developed by St. Louis-based advertising agency Rodgers Townsend. The NerdsToGo franchisees were introduced to the new logo and brand refinement while attending the first annual convention in Dallas, Texas, earlier this year. “It was time. Our franchisees were ready for an updated look and feel. Coming out of convention we saw a renewed energy from our franchisees embracing the brand direction and eager to update their locations,” added Herskind.

“The new refinement helps the company be more competitive in the marketplace,” said Rory Dunnaback, NerdsToGo® 2021 Franchisee of the Year award winner and the first adopter of the new brand identity at his newly opened Tigard, Oregon location. “The update to our look helps attract new customers in all technology areas, allowing us to evolve and grow as technological advancements continue.”

For information about the NerdsToGo® franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679).

About Propelled Brands®:

Propelled Brands is the multi-brand franchiser of FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE®, NerdsToGo® and Suite Management Franchising, LLC, the parent company of MY SALON Suite® and Salon Plaza®. Propelled Brands advances the strategic path for each brand, offering support, guidance and a clear vision to fully equip every franchisee, helping them maximize success.

Leading computer and technology repair service seeks to provide assistance to small-and-medium sized businesses in a new market.

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo, a leading computer and technology repair services franchise, is looking to expand its presence in Milwaukee by approximately eight units, as the increasing demand for in-home technology solutions continues to rise.

“With so many businesses offering remote work for their employees, the services NerdsToGo provides are more valuable now than ever before,” said Mark Jameson, chief support and development officer at Propelled Brands. “NerdsToGo has an amazing opportunity in the Milwaukee market, and we are confident that our proven business model along with the support and resources provided, will allow our franchisees to thrive.”

The NerdsToGo business model has created a culture of excellence where Nerds are given the opportunity to grow and profit from their skills, while offering a high standard of professional service to customers.

“When Propelled Brands acquired NerdsToGo, I knew they would take the FASTSIGNS business model and bring those tools to the NerdsToGo franchise,” said Chuck Bailey, a NerdsToGo franchise owner. “NerdsToGo bridges a gap that exists between the large corporate IT services companies and the mom and pop stores that are out there. Propelled Brands is setting up NerdsToGo to be a lean, mean, franchising machine, and I am excited to be a part of that transformation.”

Prospective franchisees do not need experience in information technology, but should have a strong desire to grow a successful business in their local community, developing relationships with small business owners to become their outsourced IT department.

The initial investment for a NerdsToGo franchise is approximately $146,200 – $217,050, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, NerdsToGo offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, including a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875.

For information about the NerdsToGo franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679)

CARROLLTON, Texas — Franchise Dictionary Magazine recognizes NerdsToGo, a leading computer and technology repair services franchise, as one of the top 100 Game Changers of 2021. This recognition highlights franchises that fill a niche, help the communities they are a part of, and provide opportunities for aspiring business owners.

“To have NerdsToGo named on the 2021 Top 100 Game Changers list is an honor,” said Mark Jameson, chief support and development officer at Propelled Brands. “It is thanks to the hard work and commitment of our franchisees who work tirelessly to support each other and their communities, that this recognition was even possible. We look forward to continuing to grow this brand in 2022.”

NerdsToGo has been providing computer and technology services for almost two decades. Acting as the IT department for small to medium sized businesses, the brand has brick-and-mortar service centers, offers remote support, and drives to customers’ locations in a Nerd van. NerdsToGo has immense growth potential, especially as an increasing number of businesses choose to work remotely.

“2021 was a challenging year for the world,” said Alesia Visconti, CEO / Publisher of Franchise Dictionary Magazine, “A brand that earns the Top 100 Game Changers designation raises the bar and clearly sets itself apart! We are THRILLED to recognize and showcase these 100+ fran-tastic brands that went above and beyond. Congrats to this year’s Game Changers!”

NerdsToGo is currently seeking qualified franchisees to be owner-operators to help the brand grow in this market. Prospective franchisees do not need experience in information technology but should have a strong desire to grow a successful business in their local community, developing relationships with small business owners to become their outsourced IT department.

“When I was in search of a franchise that allowed me to build a business to help my community, I found NerdsToGo, and immediately gravitated toward it because of the growth opportunity it presented,” said Woody Huffines, owner of the McKinney NerdsToGo franchise. “With NerdsToGo being supported by such a successful umbrella brand, the mature infrastructure and drive that the organization has adopted is one that helps us succeed as a business and support our community.”

The initial investment for a NerdsToGo franchise is approximately $146,200 – $217,050, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000 of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, NerdsToGo offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875.

The full list of the top 100 “Game Changers” can be found in the December issue of Franchise Dictionary Magazine.

For more information about the NerdsToGo franchise, visit https://www.nerdstogo.com, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679.