Guardien Technologies Spokane

It was during a dream that Shane Desgrosellier saw the makings of an online technology to better prevent access to unsavory Web sites. It’s a step ahead of the spyware-type software and filters sold for the same purpose, he said.

Unlike its competitors, this new technology is impenetrable, Desgrosellier claims.

It allows computer users to access selected mirror Web sites without actually surfing the ‘Net, he said. Subscribers will eventually be able to customize the service to easily view their favorite material, which will be extracted from Web sites.

Desgrosellier and business partner Courtney Shrock formed Guardien Technologies, Inc., to market their computer tool.

They asked Connect Northwest to review their business plan and an executive summary, all in hopes of attracting investors.

Like other Springboard participants, Desgrosellier refined his business proposal and then presented it before panelists Connect Northwest called together.

“It was a brutal, but amazing, experience,” Desgrosellier said of the preparation and the presentation, where panelists are encouraged to point out flaws and weaknesses.

Guardien recently forged a strategic partnership with OneEighty Networks, a regional Internet and data communications provider. Together, they hope to offer the new technology to Spokane-area subscribers early next year.

Desgrosellier said initial plans call for the service to be available to customers on a free trial basis. Over time, it could be bundled just like other subscription options, he said.

Science, weather, local news, coming events, sports, parent resources and the like are among the topics subscribers will be able to access in the early stages.

“Eventually, families will be able to customize access based on family values and interests,” Degrosellier said.