Having launched 13 years ago in the middle of the GFC with zero clients, one desk and three chairs, Special Group knows a bit about starting something when the global chips are down.
Now, off the back of the lockdowns, the creative company has launched a new initiative: ‘New Zealand needs startups’.
Announced with a full-page ad in the New Zealand Herald over the weekend, their mission is to find three startups that could use Special’s strategic, design, comms and digital thinking to launch their brands – and have pledged to give for free.
Special Group Founder, CEO/CCO Tony Bradbourne says: “We are where we are due to a lot of talented people, talented clients, and a lot of hard work – but also because of some incredible support from the industry. We also know how hard it is to launch when times are tough. And now it’s our chance to give back, to help others start their dreams.”
Having helped brands like ecostore and Karma Cola become international success stories, Special will use their experience and brain power to help the next the world talks about.
Special Group Managing Director Michael Redwood says: “We believe one of the best ways to help the New Zealand economy right now is to start something.
“So, we are looking for entrepreneurs who have a great idea, but may not be sure how to brand it, or launch it, or scale it, or have people interact with it or globalise it.”
Special Group Founder, Executive Design Director Heath Lowe adds: “We have the branding, packaging and storytelling experience it takes to launch and grow a successful brand, so we want to use it for good. And frankly, we love working with these founder-driven companies.”
