Nonprofit design program

What the program offers

One defined design project per organization, at no cost. Most projects are one of three kinds:

• A campaign set. Graphics for one event, drive, or appeal, in the print, social, email, and web sizes the organization actually uses, with the copy written for each.
• A one-page brand guide. Logo usage, colors tested for contrast, type, and a few templates, so volunteers and staff produce materials that look like they come from the same place.
• A volunteer or fundraising toolkit. Editable templates for the recurring materials an organization makes every season, with a short guide to using them.

Each project follows the same process as paid work: a short brief, three concept directions, rounds of refinement, accessible final files, and a handover of the working files.

Who it is for

The program is for nonprofit organizations in San Diego County, with priority for small organizations that do not have a designer on staff. It is a particular fit for organizations working on the bay and the coast, the environment, public safety and preparedness, community programs, and technology and digital skills.

HQT does not take on political campaign, ballot measure, or lobbying materials through the program.

What HQT asks in return

Nothing is required. HQT asks for permission to show the finished work on hqt.org, and, if the organization is satisfied, permission to list it as a reference. Both are the organization's choice, and neither is a condition of the work. Finished projects appear here only with the organization's written permission.

How to apply

Email info@hqt.org with the subject line "Nonprofit design program". Include the organization's name and website, what the project is for, any date it has to be ready by, and who the contact will be. HQT replies to every request, and if the project is a fit, schedules a short call to write the brief together.