Connecting Creatives With Career Opportunities The City of New Haven and the Connecticut Office of the Arts unite to launch an innovative career fair designed to empower creatives and arts organizations. Client City Of New Haven Year 2024 Scope of Work Communications & Marketing Assets, Go-To-Market Strategy, Content Creation, Public Relations, Brand Partnerships, Event Planning & Management Industry Muncipality Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) is dedicated to fostering the health of Connecticut's creative economy. Guided by the belief that the arts are a human right, COA supports participation and arts-making for all people. To bring this vision to life, Creative U was born—a dynamic two-day conference led by Sweets & Sounds Entertainment, hosted by the City of New Haven, and powered by COA. The goal: create a space for learning, collaboration, and networking while directly connecting creatives to employment opportunities in arts and entertainment. BRVC was brought on to help launch the first Creative Workforce Arts & Entertainment Career Fair, a centerpiece of the event. The challenge was to craft a go-to-market strategy that not only drove awareness and attendance but also created a meaningful experience for both job-seekers and employers. Our Approach To ensure the event's success, BRVC implemented a multi-layered strategy that integrated marketing, communications, and on-the-ground event execution. Strategic Planning & Positioning: Developed messaging to position the career fair as a one-of-a-kind, free opportunity for creatives and employers. Created the Creative Workforce: Arts & Entertainment Major, a workshop series to prepare participants with networking, innovation, and career advancement skills. Content Creation & Marketing: Designed engaging visuals, promotional content, and registration funnels to build excitement and drive attendance. Leveraged storytelling across social media and PR outreach to highlight the event’s unique value Partnership Development: Secured key partnerships with local arts organizations and businesses to broaden outreach and participation. Event Execution: Managed day-of logistics including registration, employer coordination, panel discussions, and interactive features such as: Live music by DJ Ch’Varda Free headshots for attendees Networking Bingo 1:1 office hours with industry experts Keynote conversation with guest speaker Pretty Vee Qualitative Feedback Attendees appreciated connecting with employers exclusively focused on arts and entertainment: “At most career fairs, no employers are geared toward the arts. This event was a game changer.” One employer shared immediate ROI: “I’ve already contracted a design project with a candidate I met at the fair and have meetings scheduled with two others. I wouldn’t have found this talent otherwise.”

Exhibit B Agency Project 50% Revenue Goal in 3 Months Year 2023 Scope of Work Strategy Industry Start-Up, B2B "By uncovering my strategic steps I’ve been landing longer term contracts, which I was never really focused on before. I wanted to hit $10k - $20k months faster, doing 1 or 2 projects a month. Thinking strategically about my approach, I was able to hit 50% of my goal within 3 months. I also figured out a way where I don't have to be completely present on my business’ Instagram and can still introduce people to my story and the brand which has been working so far." CEO, Creative Director Ashli F. CEO, Creative Director Ashli F. Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) As the Founder & Creative Director of Exhibit B Agency, the client had built a strong reputation through referrals and word-of-mouth, delivering high-quality work across web design, branding, and creative direction. However, growth was not yet systemized or scalable. Key challenges included: No consistent client acquisition strategy beyond inbound referrals Discomfort with pitching, particularly when it felt inauthentic or misaligned Revenue inconsistency, despite offering high-ticket services ($10K–$30K+) A desire to work with aligned, investment-ready clients in tech, film, music, and entrepreneurship While the creative foundation was strong, the business needed structure around positioning, outreach, and sales systems to support sustainable growth. Our Approach Through a targeted 1-hour strategy session, we provided Exhibit B Agency with a focused, high-impact roadmap to strengthen brand positioning, refine outreach, and build a more intentional path to revenue growth. The session focused on: Clarifying Brand Positioning & Ideal Client Focus Identified alignment between Exhibit B Agency’s strengths and launch-driven clients across tech, film, music, and entrepreneurship Refined how to communicate value in a way that feels authentic, intentional, and aligned Reframing Outreach as Aligned Partnership-Building Shifted the client’s perspective on pitching from transactional to relationship-driven outreach Introduced simple frameworks for personalized communication across email, LinkedIn, and community channels Revenue Strategy & Service Alignment Mapped a clear path to a $20K revenue goal through high-ticket services like web design and brand campaigns Provided guidance on balancing premium offerings with flexible pathways to reach revenue targets Introducing Scalable Systems & Sales Structure Recommended building repeatable proposals, contracts, and outreach templates to increase efficiency Outlined key KPIs (pitches, calls, conversions) to track and optimize performance over time Founder-Led Visibility Strategy Reinforced the importance of the founder’s voice in building trust and connection Identified opportunities to leverage platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube for sustainable visibility Our Impact & Client Milestones Following a single strategy session, we conducted a check-in 90 days later to assess progress. While the full outreach strategy had not yet been implemented, Exhibit B Agency made intentional shifts that strengthened the foundation for scalable growth. Key milestones included: Secured high-value, time-intensive client work - Landed two major engagements, including a full company rebrand (3+ month project) and art direction for a large-scale summit—demonstrating continued demand for high-level creative services. Shifted toward longer-term, more stable revenue - Began prioritizing extended engagements over one-off projects, reaching approximately 50% of monthly revenue goals through ongoing contracts. Built scalable sales and delivery infrastructure - Developed ready-to-use proposals and contracts across core services—eliminating the need to recreate materials and increasing efficiency across the sales process. Prioritized operational efficiency before scaling outreach - Intentionally focused on “working smarter, not harder” by refining internal systems—ensuring readiness to execute consistent outreach (14–28+ companies per week) without overwhelm. Refined tools and systems for lead generation - Tested LinkedIn Sales Navigator and identified alternative tools that better aligned with workflow and cost-efficiency. Expanded visibility in a more sustainable way - Leveraged YouTube to share her story and introduce audiences to the brand—reducing reliance on constant Instagram presence while recognizing LinkedIn as a key area for growth.

"I don’t have to shape-shift in order to grow this brand. I’m literally just showing up. It all works because it’s my brand, it’s me. Brianna’s method has reassured me that it’s okay to use my brand story to keep going, that all the moving pieces in my business will come together, I can be authentic in every stage, and make sense as my business evolves. Her method has made me feel like my brand is such a representation of what I’m authentically trying to translate to the people." April Kelly Mompreneur & Start-Up Founder

National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) Transforming Internship Programs: Streamlining Recruitment, Onboarding, and Alumni Engagement for Long-Term Growth Client National Museum of African America History & Culture Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Event Planning Industry Municipal Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) The National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) needed assistance in transforming its internship and workforce development programs. Specifically, BRVC worked on simplifying the recruitment process, streamlining onboarding, and fostering long-term alumni engagement. This was crucial for enhancing the museum's internship programs while supporting a high volume of applications and candidates. The National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) needed assistance in transforming its internship and workforce development programs. Specifically, BRVC worked on simplifying the recruitment process, streamlining onboarding, and fostering long-term alumni engagement. This was crucial for enhancing the museum's internship programs while supporting a high volume of applications and candidates. Our Approach BRVC worked with NMAAHC to evaluate their current systems, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions that improved efficiency and scalability. Our services included project management, systems implementation, administrative assistance, and event planning. Auditing Current Systems: We started by auditing NMAAHC’s existing databases, resources, and workflows to gain familiarity with their program. We identified key bottlenecks and areas of improvement, especially in tracking internship applications and maintaining alumni connections. Creating SOPs and Workflows: To address the identified challenges, we created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to document best practices and ensure consistency. We also developed workflows using Asana, which streamlined communication, task management, and follow-ups. Additionally, we implemented a timelining system to ensure that the application process and intern onboarding remained on track. Implementing Systems: We leveraged automated tools to enhance data tracking, manage tasks efficiently, and ensure timely responses. These systems allowed NMAAHC to reduce manual effort while increasing the scalability of their processes Our Impact & Client Milestones Streamlined Recruitment: Through the implementation of efficient SOPs and workflows in Asana, we helped NMAAHC manage 1,300+ applications , reduce processing times, and ensure that candidate inquiries were promptly addressed. This led to record-high application volumes and reduced internal bottlenecks in the recruitment process. Improved Alumni Engagement: By reconnecting with 75+ alumni through surveys, newsletters, and networking events, we successfully launched a new alumni initiative. This kept alumni engaged and turned them into advocates for the program, further enhancing the museum's reputation and community connections. Efficient Onboarding: The redesigned onboarding process for over 60+ interns provided a structured, stress-free experience. By creating easy-to-follow workflows and helping with logistics like background checks and IT support, interns started their roles with confidence, and supervisors saved valuable time. Operational Efficiency & Future Planning: Our work laid the foundation for scalable growth in NMAAHC’s internship programs. With automated workflows, clearer processes, and a stronger alumni network, the museum is now better positioned to continue expanding its reach and improving participant experiences in future cycles.

Junior Achievement Unified Messaging and Strategic Engagement: Amplifying JAGFC’s Impact Across Stakeholders Client Junior Achievement Year 2024 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Content Creation, Newsletter Creation Industry Non-Profit Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) Despite its undeniable positive impact, Junior Achievement of Greater Fairfield County (JAGFC) struggled to effectively articulate who the organization serves and how they are served. Staff and board members sought unified messaging to resonate with various stakeholders and clearly communicate JAGFC’s value. Our Approach From January to July 2024, BRVC applied a holistic brand growth strategy using marketing and communications expertise, with consultative support on operations management where needed, to position JAGFC as a go-to partner driving systemic change and empowering young people to build successful financial futures. This 3-step approach included: Audit Analyzing current communications and identifying opportunities for improvement. Marketing & Communications Plan Developing a strategic blueprint for stakeholder engagement and value articulation. Plan Implementation Executing strategies with a focus on impactful messaging and targeted audience engagement. Our Impact & Client Milestones By implementing BRVC’s strategies, JAGFC successfully increased awareness, engagement, and clarity in its communications, empowering its mission to inspire and support youth in building brighter financial futures. 1. Clearer Messaging & Target Audience Profiles: Developed audience profiles to define who is served and created a messaging framework for how JAGFC supports them. Provided a strategic blueprint for driving awareness, interest, and support, enabling JAGFC to clearly communicate its value across multiple stakeholders. 2. Strategic Social Media Performance: LinkedIn: Launched a "Boundless Possibilities" newsletter to increase the reach of educator, donor and volunteer stakeholders. Produced content that achieved a 10.6% click-through rate (CTR), outperforming posts from the prior 30 days. Engagement rate averaged 17.2%, surpassing previous metrics. Videos and carousel posts generated the highest impressions, with authentic student spotlights performing particularly well. Insights revealed LinkedIn as the priority platform for reaching corporate partners, donors, and educators. Instagram/Facebook: Reels increased reach on Instagram, while original/repurposed content performed better on Facebook. Images on Facebook drove more engagement than videos, aligning with the platform’s follower demographics of donors, corporate partners, and educators (vs. students/youth). 3. Tactical Insights: Emphasized engaging content formats such as videos, carousels, and tagged posts to maximize impressions and engagement. Identified content types that resonate with specific platforms, ensuring tailored promotion efforts for optimal impact. View Newsletetter

CT Office of The Arts Connecticut Office of the Arts Bolsters Economic Opportunity in the Arts with Workforce Initiative Client CT Office of The Arts: Improving Economic Opportunity in the Arts Year 2017-2023 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance Industry Municipal, Non-Profit Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) A paid apprenticeship program that gives Connecticut college students, emerging creatives, formerly incarcerated individuals and military veterans an opportunity to gain high-level professional work experience with not-for-profit arts and cultural organizations throughout the state. Since its inception in 2017, more than 100 Connecticut college students, emerging creatives, formerly incarcerated individuals and military veterans have been placed in apprenticeships at non-profit and cultural organizations. In return, they have explored various job opportunities in the arts, developed new passions, enhanced their skillset, received professional development support and, for some, long-term employment. Additionally, host organizations have provided apprentices with engaging experiences in arts administration, visual arts, arts presenting/curating, media arts, performing arts, visual arts, arts education and literary arts. In an effort to scale the program with an intenton of curating a well-rounded summer apprenticeship experience that attracts more talent as well as fosters job opportunities, the Connecticut Office of the Arts requested assistance to achieve the following outcomes: Maintain retention of apprentice placements in selected organizations Show that AWI/employment in the arts contributes to the economic growth in CT Be able to gather accurate apprentice demographics, and use data to further improve diversity, equity and inclusion in the program Build trust as well as organic & ongoing relationships between COA, apprentices & organizations (receive genuine trackable & quality feedback from organizations & interns in regards to their experiences with one another, as well as COA/AWI) Instill professional development workshops/trainings for intern applicants & selected organizations Long-term: Receive applications that align with the cross-sectors of the arts' community (i.e. public relations, marketing, etc.) Our Approach We worked with COA’s leadership to thoroughly assess and update internal messaging for the program to ensure it maintains its integrity of following state policy as well as its READI principles, provided messaging and counsel for public information sharing via newsletters, social media and directly with stakeholders, strategically and carefully implemented communications and operational practices/counsel to COA, stakeholders and apprentices as they navigated COVID-19 and facilitated implemenetation and supervision of the developed processes Our Impact & Client Milestones Since 2020, a total of 35 apprentices were provided job opportunities in 35 non-profit organizations within 2 years, resulting in over $131,250 being distributed to apprentices. (Please view our reports for details on the impact of our work and how we met/exceeded required outcomes: 2021 and 2020. Kindly note, each of our client collaborations include frequent check-ins, agendas and recap reports.) Additional Reference Links: AWI Website (Kindly note, BRVC is a part of the program’s redesign for 2023. Our work involves: brand development, social & digital strategy, public relations and project management.) 2021 Selected Apprentices 2020 Selected Apprentices

Future Link Optimizing Processes and Expanding Sustainable Impact for Future Link’s Career Coaching Program Client Future Link Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance Industry Non-Profit Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) Future Link sought a program evaluation consultant to assess and provide recommendations on the structure, processes, metrics, and scaling plan for their Career Coaching Program (CCP). The goal was to increase students' college persistence rate, degree completion, and workforce training outcomes that lead to internships and job placements. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach BRVC worked closely with Future Link to evaluate the program and create recommendations aimed at scaling the CCP. Our approach focused on improving efficiency, streamlining processes, and maintaining a human-centered approach while leveraging technology for scalability. Program Evaluation & Process Improvement: We reviewed the current program, focusing on the three-track structure, student life cycle, and career coach life cycle. Based on our analysis, we created three Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Documents to standardize processes for the Career Planners, students, and staff. We also recommended automation to streamline tasks, improve efficiency, and maintain program effectiveness. Metrics Evaluation & Scaling Plan: We conducted market research to assess national benchmarks for career development programs, ensuring that Future Link was measuring the right data points. We also developed a scaling plan that outlined the steps needed to grow the program — including human, technical, and financial resources. Implementation & Automation: We implemented processes using Monday.com for tracking, reporting, and automation. This included designing workflows for all stages of the program and providing a clear, actionable plan for scaling and reporting to key stakeholders, such as the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC helped Future Link build a scalable framework for their CCP, focusing on process improvement, resource development, and data-driven strategies to ensure sustainable growth: Scaling Plan Development: We created a roadmap to expand CCP by focusing on human, technical, and financial strategies. The plan set clear goals to increase student reach to 175 students and secure 65 internships by 2024. We also identified key metrics for success, including graduation rates and financial stability. Process Improvement & Automation: Streamlined SOPs and integrated Monday.com for tracking and automating workflows. This improved efficiency, reduced administrative tasks, and supported the scaling of the program without compromising its personalized approach. Resource Creation: Developed 41 resources, including templates, tutorials, and guides, to aid in program execution and staff onboarding, empowering Future Link to grow while maintaining consistency. Data-Driven Strategy: We aligned the scaling efforts with measurable metrics, ensuring continuous improvement and positioning Future Link for future funding opportunities with detailed reports for stakeholders like the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation.

Haiama Beauty Co. Project 8 Weeks to Marketing Success Year 2023 Scope of Work 60-Day Pow Wow Industry Lifestyle, B2C "BRVC is an incredible firm! I attended an 8-week course for SMBs/entrepreneurs and I learned how to use TikTok, how to better reach my target audience and identified attainable marketing goals for the next 3 months. Highly recommend!" Allison Shimamoto Founder

Cheat Code Cheat Code Celebrates Black History Month By Promoting Financial Education and Delivering Free Stock Certificates to Children Client Cheat Code: Black History Month Campaign Year 2022 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Public Relations Industry Start-Up Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) A cause through their non-profit branch, the NVST Foundation, the campaign aims to generate $100,000 in donations from donors who advocate for financial literacy among marginalized families, create early access to wealth in the form of 1000 Roblox stock certificates, and provide a stepping stone to youth. As seen on Yahoo News, Business Insider, MarketWatch and Earn Your Leisure, Cheat Code is a holistic investment and trading company offering software, courses, community and products that make financial education easy and generational wealth a possibility for marginalized communities. Launched in 2021 by co-founders and entrepreneurs, Francis Kway and Jehu Graham, Cheat Code provides beginner-friendly support that is active, affordable and accessible. Designed for traders of all experience levels, Cheat Code ALGO, Cheat Code Academy and the Cheat Code community of 17,000+ members equip communities of color to invest with ease and confidence. Committed to elevating disenfranchised communities through equitable access to financial education, Francis and Jehu wanted to fundraise $100,000 from donors who advocate for financial literacy among marginalized families, create early access to wealth in the form of 1000 Roblox stock certificates, and provide a stepping stone to youth—with the ultimate goal of interrupting deleterious cycles of poverty. Our Approach To ensure we best positioned Cheat Code's efforts and value in a way that was beginner-friendly, we conducted an audit of their existing online presence as well as a competitive coverage analsysis. Then, we used our findings to help rebrand messaging for the Cheat Code brand, including its products and non-profit entity--NVST Foundation. Finally, we used the messaging to help the Cheat Code update all pitchable assets, structure their Accessible Generational Wealth for Your Legacy campaign, and produce a press release. Our Impact & Client Milestones The distribution of our press release on the wire resulted in their campaign launch receiving coverage on 116 media platforms (Estimated impressions: 95 million), which included: 45 AP outlets Notable media coverage: Yahoo and Market Watch Our tailored pitches, resulted in 4 media placements (Estimated impressions: 657.76K). 25% of the coverage shared the brand's story (vs. solely its products or a mention)--which outperformed competitor coverage Notable media coverage: Sheen Magazine, Money Geek, and Media Feed

"TAPPING INTO MY SECRET SAUCE helped build confidence and let me know to just be myself because that’s what my audience will love the most. I enjoyed Brianna's course and was able to learn how to better understand my audience. Her course was supportive and encouraging, I appreciated the group setting because it allowed me to listen and pick up from others because we all did things differently." Micha'Angelina Founder

Town of Waterford Showcasing Grant Impact and Establishing the Economic Development Commission’s Presence Client Town of Waterford: Establishing the EDC's Presenc e Year 2023 Scope of Work Brand Identity, Brand Messaging Development, Content Creation, Newsletter Creation Industry Municipal Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) In 2022 and 2023, with the help of BRVC’s Operations Management team, the Town of Waterford (TOW) awarded a total of $170,065.01 in grants to small businesses through its Small Business Grant Program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. Despite the program’s success, TOW lacked in-house support for marketing and content creation to effectively showcase its impact and position the Economic Development Commission (EDC) as a resource for the local business community. Our Approach BRVC’s Creative Strategy team provided comprehensive support to amplify the program’s success and elevate TOW’s branding as well as storytelling. Marketing Audit Conducted a competitor analysis to refine TOW’s brand identity and identify successful elements of similar programs. Mini Marketing Campaign Developed messaging, strategy, and key performance indicators to promote the program and align with TOW’s long-term branding goals. Content Creation Produced 8 original social media posts, including captions and hashtags, along with a newsletter and press release highlighting the program’s achievements. Visual Branding Designed and delivered a specific EDC logo to establish the commission as a trusted resource for the business community. Our Impact & Client Milestones Delivered high-quality, engaging content (videos, graphics, and written assets) shared on TOW’s website and social platforms, effectively showcasing the First Selectman and EDC’s impact on small businesses. Supported TOW in sharing grant recipients’ stories and highlighting the program’s success, building stronger connections with the local business community. Provided a ready-to-use press release template to spotlight the distribution of over $170k to small businesses. Positioned the EDC as a valuable resource through cohesive branding and storytelling, and a first-ever logo. With BRVC’s expertise, TOW successfully demonstrated the transformative impact of its grant program, enhanced its public visibility, and set the stage for long-term community engagement and support BRVC x TOW & EDC - NEWSLETTER - Small Business Grant Program Cohorts 1 and 2 (2022 - 2023) PRESS RELEASE - Waterford’s Economic Development Boosts Local Businesses

Lachers Reese Expansion, Here We Come! Lachers Hair By Demand Improves Operations Management Client Lachers Reese: Holistic Growth Year 2018-2019 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Brand Partnerships, Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Team Development Industry Lifestyle, B2C Here's the Sitch (aka Situation) A move to a new salon location in 2018, sparked a determination for brand growth--starting from the inside! Goal & Objectives Update and launch website Create and promote event packages for weddings, event planners, bar & bat mitzvahs, entertainment companies, etc. Create and implement marketing/public relations plan that increases client relationships, workshops and strategic partnerships Find opportunities to maximize staff, and overall growth in customers Our Approach To prepare the Lachers Reese brand for the benefits of an aggressive integrated PR/Marketing Strategy & Communications plan, BRVC's collaboration focused on brand development, digital marketing consulting, operations consulting, creative services & preliminary public relations support. Our Impact & Client Milestones Updated website for discoverability, brand identity and consistency purposes. Updates included: biography, images, online booking, special occasion bookings and newsletter subscriptions. The updated website generated incoming inquiries from potential clients (a nearly 50% monthly increase from 2017-2018) Developed messaging & graphics for brochures, which highlighted special occasion bookings Generated a list of state-wide venues, event planners & entertainment/performing arts companies to prepare for an aggressive promotional campaign Brainstormed & created a brand ambassador/influencer program to connect with local influencers Grew salon team to include assistant, receptionist and another stylist that aligns with updated brand goals and company infrastructure Ongoing support: Lead operations management Develop internal processes Improve company culture Host staff meetings Brainstorm salon specials Improve external communication processes & more