One in a series of case studies highlighting creative projects, imaginative clients, and remarkable results.
The Client:
American Inno, a division of the American City Business Journals, dedicated to connecting startups and the local tech industry via news, events, job listings, and more.
The Challenge:
To design a unique and creative award for the American Inno “50 on Fire.” This award is presented at events nationwide to recognize “innovators, disruptors, and trailblazers” who think way outside the box. Bottom line, the standard engraved plaque has its place, but this isn’t it.
The Big Idea:
Taking some cues from The Masters and its ubiquitous green jacket, the Dunstan Group worked with Cat Francis at American Inno to select an appropriate piece that would not only make the winners feel awesome in the moment, but also generate a ton of social media buzz and some interoffice excitement. Enter, the VERY red “Inno Blazer!” These custom embroidered jackets are now a point of pride for the winners, and have been featured in articles and social media posts nationwide.
The Reaction:
So far, we’ve awarded 50+ ‘Inno Blazers’ across 6 cities, and our honorees have gone crazy for the red jackets. Winners have had a blast wearing the coveted red blazers at the events and went crazy posting pictures on social media. Post events, the red blazers have lived on. We’ve seen them framed in offices, worn by employees of the month, decked out with added pieces of flare and worn around startup communities at other events. Thank you to the Dunstan Group for helping bring the red ‘Inno Blazers’ to life and to helping American Inno grow its brand!”
— Cat Francis,
National Marketing and Events Director, American Inno