The Alexandria Economic Development Partnership is planning a major redesign of its website and published materials, in hopes of attracting more businesses to the city.
D.C.-based marketing and public relations agency Hart announced today (Tuesday) that AEDP has selected its team “to lead a comprehensive modernization of its website, messaging, video storytelling and marketing collateral.”
The creative updates are “part of a concerted effort to attract out-of-market businesses to Alexandria, amplifying all of the strengths that led to our rankings as a best small city for business,”AEDP President and CEO Stephanie Landrum told ALXnow.
“This is one of many new and expanded projects AEDP will be undertaking, built from the recommendations of the ALX Forward framework,” Landrum said. “We will kick off this work in the new year and expect to debut the updated user experience next summer.”
Through the agreement, Hart will lead creative changes that include a “refreshed messaging framework” and website redesign, along with short-form videos and “modern collateral” to strengthen AEDP’s brand and engagement, according to a press release.
AEDP did not respond to a request for the project’s cost.
AEDP first issued a request for proposals in August. Its plans follow a strong year for the public-private partnership, despite the region being riddled with economic loss and uncertainty.
The organization helped “attract or retain more than 4,100 jobs and worked with the City of Alexandria to launch a new, community-informed economic development framework, shaped by more than 840 touchpoints,” according to the release.
AEDP shared some of its major wins during its annual impact meeting in October, located at its new headquarters at 1940 Duke Street. These include the opening of Inova Health Center – Oakville, the expansion of defense contractor Systems Planning and Analysis and the growth of nonprofit Cornerstone Craftsman.
Alexandria “has an abundance of world-class assets and is second to none in authentic placemaking,” said Hart’s D.C. Managing Director, Amanda Marko, in the release.
“There’s an incredible opportunity to amplify their story — one that connects its historic character with its bold vision for an innovation-driven future. That’s where Hart comes in,” Marko said. “We’ll craft a clear, compelling narrative that attracts investment and confidence. Our D.C. team was built for this kind of public-private partnership that delivers impact with intention.”
The announcement followed a competitive nationwide search, with AEDP receiving nearly 200 proposals.
Previous Hart clientele include Prince George’s County and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. The firm’s Midwestern offices have assisted the Detroit Regional Partnership, the Regional Growth Partnership of Northwest Ohio and Destination Toledo.
Photo via Alexandria Economic Development Partnership/Facebook.
