Illuminating Potential

Empowering Delaware’s small businesses and nonprofits with marketing, branding, and advertising support.

The Epic Collaborative Foundation

Illuminating Potential

We believe that every small business and nonprofit has the potential to thrive. Epic Collaborative Foundation (ECF) provides the essential marketing, branding, and advertising support needed to help local organizations grow, connect with their audience, and drive economic development right here at home in the 302.

Values

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Our Mission

To empower small businesses and nonprofits with marketing, branding, and advertising support to promote economic development in Delaware.

Our Vision

To be a leading force in fostering a thriving, collaborative business community in Delaware.

Our Story and Ethos

The Epic Collaborative Foundation (ECF) was formed when digital marketing leader, educator, and CEO Nancy Dibert saw a need to better support small businesses and nonprofits in their communications efforts. Recognizing that strong branding and messaging help organizations succeed in their service to others and drive their missions and bottom lines forward, she founded ECF.

The core of the mission at ECF is to empower small businesses and nonprofits with expert marketing, branding, and advertising support to promote economic development and mission-driven work in Delaware. A cornerstone of this effort to foster a thriving, collaborative business and nonprofit community is the production of Social Media Day Delaware, the First State’s premier social media conference, and hosting First State Social Club events. On large and small stages, these gatherings connect participants with local industry leaders, who guide attendees through engaging, hands-on lessons. The goal is always to have participants walk away with meaningful connections and practical skills they can immediately apply to their projects.

The Epic Collaborative Foundation operates as a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which means your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. 

Our Services and Who We Serve

We partner with passionate small businesses and dedicated nonprofits across Delaware. Whether you’re a startup with big ideas, a local shop with a strong community presence, or an established nonprofit organization looking to expand your reach, we’re here to help. We believe that a powerful brand can come from anywhere, and we are committed to making our consulting services accessible to all who need them. Our team of creative professionals are experts in their fields, and offer a range of services tailored to your specific needs. Each service is designed to work together, creating a holistic strategy that ensures your brand’s success.

Photo of three smiling women on a stage in front of a screen displaying “Social Media Day Delaware 2025” and social media icons. Three ECF team members smiling on stage at the Social Media Day Delaware conference in front of a screen displaying social media icons.

Branding & Strategy

Our process begins with understanding your unique story, mission, and goals. We consult with you to illuminate your core brand identity, including your voice, values, and visual elements. The outcome is a clear, actionable strategy that serves as a blueprint for all future marketing efforts, ensuring consistency and long-term growth.

ECF Founder Nancy Dibert conducting a mentoring session, pointing to a presentation on a laptop screen.

Marketing & Advertising

We advise on effective campaigns that get your message heard by the right people at the right time. Our services include a full audit of your digital marketing, content, and advertising strategies. We help you focus on creating authentic connections and building a loyal following, turning interested individuals into enthusiastic supporters and customers.

Creative & Design

We consult on creative direction and advise on design solutions to ensure your visuals leave a lasting impression. Our guidance covers everything from logo and identity design to website development and the creation of marketing collateral. We believe that great design should not only be beautiful but also functional, guiding your audience on a clear journey and enhancing their overall experience with your brand.

Why Our Services Matter

Illuminating the Path to Growth

In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, a strong brand and effective marketing are no longer luxuries—they are absolute necessities. For small businesses and nonprofits, the challenge is immense. They must compete for attention against larger, well-funded organizations, all while operating on limited budgets and with lean teams. This is the critical gap that ECF fills.

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Overcoming the Digital Divide

An organization’s online presence is often its first impression. A professional website, consistent social media, and engaging content are crucial for building trust and attracting new customers or donors. Without a clear digital strategy, even the most impactful work can go unnoticed. We provide the expertise to navigate this complex digital landscape, helping our partners build a professional, cohesive, and compelling presence that captures their mission and connects them with their audience.

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Maximizing Resources

For small businesses and nonprofits, every dollar and every hour counts. Attempting a DIY approach to marketing can be a costly and time-consuming process with uncertain results. Our professional guidance saves valuable resources by providing a clear, strategic roadmap. We help our partners avoid costly mistakes and invest their limited resources in solutions that deliver tangible results, freeing them to focus on what they do best: serving their clients and community.

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Building Trust, Brand by Brand

A strong brand is the foundation of trust. It communicates an organization’s values, promises, and professionalism before a single word is spoken. Our services are designed to build powerful, authentic brands that resonate deeply with the target audience. By clarifying an organization’s identity and message, we help them build lasting relationships with customers, donors, and the community. This isn’t just about making a business look good; it's about making them a trusted, reliable presence in the community.

How ECF Drives Economic Development

Our impact extends far beyond individual organizations and strategic marketing results. By empowering small businesses to grow and nonprofits to expand their reach, we are directly contributing to the economic vitality of Delaware. A thriving small business community creates jobs, fosters local innovation, and strengthens the fabric of our neighborhoods. By helping nonprofits secure funding and volunteers through clear communications, we enable them to provide critical services that improve lives. Our work is an investment in the future of our state.

0

small businesses call Delaware home
according to the U.S. Small Business Administration

0

nonprofits operating in the First State
according to the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement

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News & Upcoming Events

Stay up-to-date with the latest from ECF. Learn about our upcoming workshops, networking events, and the latest success stories from the community.

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Contact Us

Get in touch with the Epic Collaborative Foundation. Learn more about our work and consulting services or start a conversation about becoming a partner.