AN AWARD-WINNING tech start-up firm has been boosted as an entrepreneur raised his stake in the business as it targets continued growth.

DriverNet was founded by Eccleston resident Ant Chisnall and Emma McNally from Sutton.

The firm won the prestigious Merseyside Innovation Award, beating some tough competition to win the £10,000 prize for its innovative features and commercial potential.

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DriverNet provides transport and mobile workforce management systems to improve the speed, safety and security of a wide range of operations, from passenger transport and security teams to couriers, healthcare professionals and housing associations.

The company was founded in 2017 by Ant Chisnall who sold his property put his life savings into DriverNet.

Entrepreneur Matt Newing has raised his stake in the tech firm which specialises in a transport and mobile workforce app.

Mr Newing was impressed with the app's potential after being introduced to Ant Chisnall via an old school friend.

Mr Newing, the boss of Chorley-based Elite Group has opted to extend his interest in the St Helens-based outfit.

St Helens Star:

Matt Newing

Mr Newing said: "I saw the huge potential in Ant's app as he had first mover advantage in the mobility market.

"I'm keen to support new tech that will make a difference to other organisations.

"It's tough for start-ups, particularly now with the uncertainty of Brexit, and it’s good to be able to help with the next phase of investment to ensure DriverNet continues its impressive growth."

Ant founded DriverTech in 2017, after working in the logistics industry for 17 years.

Even in its first short life the company has accumulated a host of innovation and tech prizes, including awards from the European Space Agency, Merseyside Innovation and Future of Mobility awards.

Ant added: "I'm very pleased to have Matt on board. His initial backing and support enabled us to launch to the market.

"As a result, we are now working with some of the biggest councils in the UK, the NHS and private health care providers to help improve their logistics and transport capabilities.

"We can't wait to see what developments 2020 brings with this further investment.

"As collaborations go, DriverNet was designed and developed by a team from St Helens, first deployed in St Helens and backed by investors from St Helens.

"We,'re now looking forward to launching nationally in 2020 with Merseytravel, the NHS and some of the biggest councils in England and Wales."

See driver-net.com for more.