Stimulus Technologies 30th Anniversary – Part 4: From Garage Start-Up to Tech Leader

This year, Stimulus Technologies celebrates 30 years in business. This blog and Episode 78 of the Stimulus Tech Talk Podcast are Part 4 of our special anniversary series. In this episode, CEO Nathan Whittacre and his brother and co-founder, Brett Whittacre, reflect on their entrepreneurial journey. What started with Atari parts in the garage grew into a trusted leader in IT services and cybersecurity.

“Stimulus has always been about helping people. It's not about the tech. It’s about the person behind the technology.”
Nathan Whittacre, CEO of Stimulus Technologies

Catching Up on the Series

If you missed the earlier parts of this 30th anniversary celebration, here is the journey so far:

Now, in Part 4, we explore how Stimulus evolved from a garage project into a technology partner with 30 years of innovation.

The Early Days of Stimulus Technologies

Back in 1995, Stimulus began as a bold experiment. Inspired by their entrepreneurial family and countless hours tinkering with Atari parts, Nathan and Brett decided to launch their own business. Their first computers were built in a garage with borrowed equipment and a lot of determination.

This humble beginning laid the foundation for a company that would grow far beyond what they imagined.

Growing Through Challenges and Sacrifice

Like many small business success stories, Stimulus faced challenges early on. The brothers juggled college, day jobs, and long nights building the business. For years, they went without a paycheck, but their passion kept them moving forward.

When Nathan left for a two year mission, Brett kept the business alive. That season tested the company’s resilience and showed the importance of teamwork and sacrifice.

A Big Breakthrough

A turning point came when Stimulus landed a significant software development contract. That project grew into Easy to Software, an international company with nearly 50 developers. The experience taught the Whittacres valuable lessons about risk taking, optimism, and adapting to new technologies and methodologies.

Evolving Into IT Services and Cybersecurity

Over three decades, Stimulus pivoted from building computers to offering internet services, managed IT, and cybersecurity solutions. Each transition reflected their ability to adapt to client needs and industry changes.

Nathan credits the company’s longevity to strong core values, long term client relationships, and a team culture where employees can build lasting careers.

Lessons From Family That Still Guide the Business

The Whittacres often credit their parents for instilling a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial mindset. Lessons like “things always take longer and cost more than expected” and “you cannot make up a loss in volume” continue to shape business decisions today.

As Stimulus looks ahead, with projects like expanding fiber networks, strengthening cybersecurity, and exploring AI solutions, Nathan emphasizes that constant pivots are what make business both challenging and rewarding.

Thank You to Clients and Team Members

The Stimulus Technologies 30 year anniversary is not just a celebration of survival, it is a tribute to clients, employees, and community supporters who made the journey possible.

As Brett shared, “It is not just about making money. It is about building careers, caring for employees, and helping clients succeed.”

Listen to Episode 78 of the Stimulus Tech Talk Podcast to hear the full story of resilience, growth, and lessons learned over three decades.

Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on our YouTube channel.