Designing for impact: 2023 in Review
Together, we design a better future…
The only thing we can consistently count on is change; though we say that every year, it feels especially true now. We’ve seen the rapid rise of AI, the hottest summer on record, and increasing disconnection. Challenges like these require creative solutions – constant adaptation, rapid innovation, and the ability to pivot. The world is at an inflection point, and we’re here to blaze a path to resilience and progress.
Whatever lies ahead, together, we can shift the balance toward equity and empowerment. Now and always, we’re grateful for our community, and we’re excited to share a look back on 2023. Here’s to everyone fighting for a better world in ways big, small, and hopeful.
38%
growth
year-over-year
28
collaborators
our network of designers, strategists, and writers
50
founders
coached in crafting bold narratives
BY Inspiring New MindsetS…
It’s time to flip the switch on progress. When the world seems to transform by the day, how can we create a better future? It starts with rethinking how we think.
Apeiron Labs drives universal access to ocean data.
When it comes to fighting climate change, oceanic data has a lot to say–and a lot yet to discover. But the ocean is vast, and that makes collecting data expensive and cumbersome. That’s where Apeiron Labs comes in. The software company is rethinking data collection for our oceans, connecting systems online to cut costs and carbon emissions. To usher in a data revolution, they asked Giant Shoulders to refine their communications and refresh their brand.
VISIT APEIRON LABS →
Gulf Blue proves great ideas can come from anywhere.
When you think of technology and innovation, Mississippi isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But Gulf Blue Navigator, started by the University of Southern Mississippi Research Foundation and SeaAhead, made a splash on the Mississippi Gulf Coast as a hub for ocean innovation. We designed a brand and website that showcased the Gulf Coast’s unique attributes, marking a sea change for investors and innovators alike.
READ CASE STUDY →
developing innovative models…
Business as usual hasn’t worked for a while. Instead, we need bold solutions and new paths forward. We’re helping our community-oriented clients to deliver both, forging new collaborations and building repeatable, scalable solutions.
Hope & Main builds better food systems by investing in entrepreneurs.
Food is such a fundamental part of our lives, and yet food access is deeply inequitable. Hope & Main, a culinary incubator, seeks to change that, starting in their home state of Rhode Island. With their inclusive community of educators and entrepreneurs, they’re creating a more just, vibrant, and sustainable food economy. And since they recognize the power of partnership, they engaged Giant Shoulders to articulate their vision and fuel their growth through some delectable brand strategy work.
City University of New York (CUNY) doubles graduation rates equitably and affordably.
CUNY’s Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) and Accelerate, Complete, Engage (ACE) program double graduation rates and shorten timelines for higher education–equitably and affordably. Now, they’re ready to expand the programs nationally, building a versatile model to benefit students, partners, and taxpayers. We partnered with the university to develop a dynamic strategy and high-level messaging to effectively market and scale the programs.
And crafting bold narratives.
Before a client can build their brand or hone their strategy, they need to know who they are and why they are. But the stories we tell only matter if we tell them in a way that reaches and resonates. We’re focused on telling those types of stories– the ones that change things, the ones that last.
Toney puts relationships at the center of the healthcare system.
Picture it: healthcare and insurance that puts people first. A network entirely dedicated to supporting healthcare companies with problem-solving, decision-making, and goal-meeting. That’s the story Toney is writing, and they engaged Giant Shoulders to craft a new brand strategy and website that reflects their uniquely relational approach.
VISIT TONEY HEALTHCARE WEBSITE →
CDL knows that a great education requires cross-disciplinary knowledge.
We often hear about the importance of STEM, but what about STEAMM? The Center for Dynamic Learning (CDL) inspires Rhode Island youth to prepare for practical and meaningful careers by instilling science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and manufacturing skills. As part of the RI Rebounds program, which connects businesses affected by COVID-19 with local vendors, Giant Shoulders refreshed their brand and built a new website that showcased their holistic approach to education.
