sliding scale BRANDING
FOR NEW founders
At Studio Esse (EH-see), we want more small businesses, run by creative people, in every city and town.
Each quarter, we offer one sliding scale project for new small business owners who need support getting their work off the ground.
Applications for Q4 2026 are due on Friday, September 25th.
TLDR: WE WANT MORE SMALL BUSINESSES.
(HERE’s why)
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Small businesses create a rich tapestry of culture in cities and towns alike. They offer authentic and diverse experiences that contribute greatly to the local feel.
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When you buy from local businesses, your dollars recirculate through your local economy 2-4 times more than money spent at a non-local company.
This is called the local multiplier effect, and is a huge reason why shopping local can impact your quality of life directly.
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Being a small business owner offers you control over your own labor, and the opportunity to conduct business according to your own values. For some people, this can be the difference between burning out quickly and finding a fulfilling and sustainable career.
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Smaller companies leave smaller footprints, and can serve the direct needs of their clients without creating as much overhead or excess inventory.
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When we work for ourselves, and serve our direct communities, we exhibit care for each other and we keep power in the hands of the many, rather than the few. More businesses = more diverse perspectives = more $ in the local economy = more control over labor = smaller footprints = less consumption = a healthier economy and planet.
We understand this is not one-size fits all, but the overall benefits of small business are plenty, and we find fulfillment in helping to create more businesses with kind people doing purposeful work.
Who is this for?
This offering was created to support service providers, small businesses, community organizers, non-profit orgs, and other local-serving businesses; who are in their beginning stages; and/or have not paid for a brand identity before; and are in need of financial support.
Folks who are disabled, neurodivergent, queer, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, people of color, parents, artists, immigrants;
and/or have experienced systemic oppression or gender-based violence are strongly encouraged to apply.
Our OFFER
THE FOUNDATION
The essentials that every brand needs, because a logo is just one part of a larger ecosystem- it’s like asking for the front door, when you need the whole house. This package is the foundation that all brands need to build trust and consistency.
Magic Mirror Strategy Session
Moodboard Directions
Primary Logo/Wordmark
2-3 Alt Logos/Submarks
Color Palette
Typography Palette
Brand Guidelines Deck
1 round of revision
Value: $2,750 | Sliding scale ranges $500-$1,500+
Projects are accepted on a case-by-case basis, subject to availability, fit, and require a brief application for consideration. Submitting an application does not guarantee you a sliding scale project spot.
APPLICATION DATES
Q4 2026: Applications due September 25th, 2026
Q1 2027: Applications due December 18th, 2026
Q2 2027: Applications due March 19th, 2027
Q3 2027: Applications due June 25th, 2027