For 970 Design, being based in the Vail Valley is more than a geographical choice — it is the foundation of their identity. The creative agency, founded 14 years ago, has built its philosophy around the region’s entrepreneurial and outdoor-driven culture. “Living and working in a place so deeply connected to nature and community has shaped not just our approach to work, but how we live our lives,” says Brigid Campbell, creative director at 970 Design.
The agency operates with the belief that creativity thrives when people are engaged with what inspires them. With company policies such as powder hours, unlimited PTO and an annual ski pass stipend, the team is encouraged to stay connected to their environment. This mindset has fueled 970 Design’s mission: to help local businesses, nonprofits and public entities tell their stories through branding, design and strategic messaging.
Photos courtesy of 970 Design
Local Impact
970 Design’s work is woven into the fabric of the Vail Valley. The agency has played a key role in shaping the Town of Vail’s communication efforts, particularly through its partnership with the Discover Vail initiative. Their efforts have helped define how Vail presents its identity, promotes responsible tourism and visually represents the valley.
Beyond municipal projects, the firm has collaborated with numerous nonprofits, including the Vail Valley Mountain Trails Alliance on the Protect Our Wildlife campaign, the Vail Valley Foundation, Mountain Safe and Love Vail. These initiatives have amplified awareness of responsible recreation, community safety and sustainability efforts.
The agency’s influence extends to local businesses as well, with branding projects for renowned establishments such as Chasing Rabbits, Sonnenalp Hotel, 10th Mountain Whiskey, Highline, Mountain Standard, Moe’s Barbecue, Archetype Distillery, Hovey & Harrison, Craftsman, Paragon Guides and Drunken Goat. “We have helped shape the identities of hundreds of local businesses, from hospitality and retail to food and beverage,” Campbell notes.
Purpose-Driven Work
970 Design’s status as a Certified B Corporation underscores its dedication to using design as a tool for positive change. “From day one, we committed to using the power of design to amplify the right voices and make a positive impact on our community, social systems and the environment,” says Campbell. The certification provides a framework for measuring their impact and ensures that their client partnerships align with their mission.
The agency takes a meticulous approach to storytelling, prioritizing mission-driven design. “Our approach starts with listening,” Campbell explains. “Before pitching ideas or making assumptions, we take the time to understand the heart of an organization, its mission, values and the impact it seeks to create.” This methodology allows 970 Design to craft messaging and visuals that resonate deeply with audiences and inspire action.
New Ventures
970 Design continues to push creative boundaries with projects, including Populus, a sustainable hotel in Denver gaining national recognition. “The hotel’s design mimics an aspen grove, creating an organic connection to Colorado’s landscapes, while its sustainability practices set a new standard for the industry,” Campbell says.
Closer to home, the firm is collaborating with the Town of Vail and its sustainability department on initiatives for the GoPro Mountain Games, reinforcing their dedication to environmental stewardship. “Whether through a local’s lens or a visitor’s experience, we want to inspire people to engage with Vail responsibly and feel a deeper connection to the environment that makes this place so special,” Campbell adds.
Looking Ahead
As 970 Design continues to grow, its mission remains steadfast: to use creativity to make a meaningful impact. “Design shapes the world around us, and we want to be intentional about our role in that,” says Campbell. Looking ahead, the agency plans to keep partnering with brands, nonprofits and organizations that prioritize people and the planet, ensuring that their work continues to stand for something bigger than aesthetics.
