Accelerating what’s next
C3 - Companies Creating Change, UAE
From brand strategy, positioning, architecture, and nomenclature to a multi-sensory identity, tone of voice, messaging, multichannel activation, implementation management and governance
An impact-led growth story
C3 is a UAE-based social enterprise helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs unlock unique opportunities, achieve incredible growth, and maximise lasting impact. Since 2012, over a thousand startups have advanced through C3's world-class accelerator platforms and curated incubator programmes. Officially recognised as a UN Sustainable Development Goals Pioneer, awarded the first international Social Enterprise Mark by the Social Enterprise Mark CIC, and the only global, independent certification authority for social enterprises.
Making impact count
After ten years of supporting incredible founders who are intentional about scaling purpose-led businesses, it was time for C3 to focus on itself before embarking on the next chapter of growth. Commissioning Firstwater to better understand and solidify its position in the market and further propel its success, a new strategy and brand identity were co-created and developed to capture and reflect the progress made in the last decade. The vibrant new identity system is part of an entire redesign, including animated idents, sonic signatures, visuals, messaging, and digital communications. These changes signify a larger shift towards greater transparency and trust between C3 and its stakeholders. It also represents an increased effort to better communicate the social enterprise’s mission with potential investors, entrepreneurs, and talent. Emphasising how C3 differ from other accelerator programme operators.
Good business partnerships
C3’s new identity and architecture have been designed to support current and prospective stakeholders in numerous ways. Together, they create an even stronger bond between all parties involved because impact-driven founders can easily recognise that the organisation shares similar values and goals. Additionally, the rebranding effort will open up more opportunities for collaboration and help increase visibility for organisations already working with C3, including HSBC, DMCC and EGA, or considering joining forces with C3 in the future. Finally, the new architecture gives alumni, cohorts, and everyone involved a sense of pride, knowing they are part of an incredible team working together to positively impact our world.
C3’s new brand identity was launched in February 2023 at the Step Conference in Dubai.
“Thank you, Firstwater, for the incredible support — we’re so excited about leveraging our redefined brand”
Medea Nocentini, Founder
