At BIG DEAL Company, we believe strong communities and successful businesses go hand in hand. When businesses give back, they are investing in the social and economic health of the communities that support them. Studies consistently show that community-minded companies enjoy higher customer loyalty, a better reputation, and improved employee retention. Giving back also helps build real relationships, creates goodwill, and can lead to new partnerships and business opportunities. No matter your company’s size, your involvement in the community shows what you value. When people see you as a caring neighbor, they are far more likely to support your business.
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Here are ten meaningful ways your business can make a difference in your community, along with the benefits you might see in your workplace, brand, and bottom line.

1. Host Employee Volunteer Days
Encouraging your team to volunteer together is a rewarding and visible way to give back. Consider dedicating a workday or two each year for employees to help in the community. Whether they sort food at a pantry, clean up parks, or help at a youth center, working together builds teamwork and pride. Companies that support volunteering often see higher morale, better collaboration, and a stronger sense of company culture. It also improves your reputation as a business that supports the community.
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2. Offer Donation Matching or Sponsorships
Matching employee donations or sponsoring local programs, events, or nonprofits is a simple but effective way to connect with your community. Donation matching shows your business cares about what matters to your employees, and sponsorships help community projects succeed while raising your profile. When your logo appears on local event banners or programs, it reinforces your presence as a community partner. These efforts not only make a difference to the recipients but also remind the public that your business values generosity and shared success.

3. Share Your Expertise or Services In-Kind
Giving back is not just about money. Your business can also share its skills, products, or services. Donating your expertise, offering marketing help, lending equipment, or providing discounts can make a big difference for nonprofits and community groups with limited resources. This lets your team show what they do best in real situations. It is a creative way to use your strengths for good, grow your network, and earn recognition from community leaders and potential clients.

4. Open Your Space to the Community
If your business has a physical location, consider offering it as a gathering space for community events, meetings, or classes. Hosting workshops, fundraisers, or networking events for local organizations can transform your business into a hub of activity and connection. This type of generosity not only provides valuable space for others but also brings new people into your environment who may later become customers, clients, or partners. Opening your doors to the community shows that your business is approachable, welcoming, and invested in the local ecosystem.

5. Launch a Cause Marketing Campaign
A cause marketing campaign lets you connect your business with a charitable cause. For example, you could donate a percentage of sales to a local group or create a special product that supports a specific project. These campaigns help customers feel they are making a difference when they buy from you. When you are open and sincere, cause marketing builds brand loyalty and gives people a reason to choose your business. It is a win-win that creates a positive impact and increases your visibility.

6. Let Employees Lead the Giving Efforts
Your employees often have strong connections to local causes that matter deeply to them. Inviting them to nominate organizations, propose volunteer projects, or help direct charitable giving ensures that your company’s efforts feel personal and authentic. When employees feel heard and empowered, they become more invested in the company’s mission. This type of involvement builds pride, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose, all of which contribute to a positive workplace culture. Giving employees ownership of your company’s community impact also increases participation and enthusiasm for your initiatives.
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7. Form Long-Term Community Partnerships
Building ongoing partnerships with nonprofits, schools, or civic groups shows you are committed beyond a single donation. Long-term relationships help you build trust, see your impact, and become more involved in the community. For example, your business could sponsor a school’s art program, fund a yearly scholarship, or work with a local charity every year. These partnerships keep your business visible and help you become a key part of the community’s growth and success.

8. Support Education, Mentorship, and Career Development
Sharing your expertise through mentorship, workshops, or educational programs helps build a stronger workforce and a better future. Offering internships, hosting student visits, or leading training sessions at local schools lets you make a real difference for others. It also helps your business find and develop new talent. Supporting education shows your company invests in people, skills, and opportunity, which matters to both customers and employees.

9. Commit to Sustainable and Local Business Practices
Supporting your community also means caring for the environment and local economy. Buying from local vendors, cutting waste, and using sustainable practices help make your community healthier and stronger. More customers now look for brands that care about the environment and social issues. When your business follows these values, you build a better reputation and attract customers who want to support responsible companies. These steps help the planet and build trust in your brand.

10. Share Your Impact Story
When your business gives back, share your story. Post updates about volunteer work, partnerships, or donations on your website, blog, and social media. Sharing your efforts can inspire others and help you connect with your audience. Being open about your community work builds trust and shows you mean what you say. People are more likely to support businesses they are proud of, and honest stories can turn customers into loyal fans.

Giving back to the community is more than just a nice gesture. It is a smart and meaningful way to grow your business. When your company supports people, causes, and local projects, you build loyalty and support that money cannot buy. Employees feel proud to work for you, customers respect your values, and partners see you as a trusted collaborator. Today, people want to work with businesses that care about more than just profit.

At BIG DEAL Company, we help businesses build real connections through events, partnerships, and community engagement that make a difference. Whether you need a campaign, an event, or a local partnership plan, our team can help you create giving strategies that fit your brand and bring lasting benefits to your business and community. Together, we can make doing good a big deal.

BIG DEAL Company has had the pleasure of working with Blue Federal Credit Union for years. One of our favorite events is Discovery Day, which is a full day of learning and engagement across the entire company (about 400 employees)!
This year focused on putting the magic in moments. We tied the theme together with well suited speakers, emcee, entertainment and swag!

What a night! Thank you to everyone who joined us at The Grainhouse in Windsor to celebrate the 2025 40 Under Forty honorees. Your energy made it such a fun and meaningful evening. We’re thrilled to recognize these inspiring young professionals who are making a difference across the Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado!
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Host: BizWest
Title Sponsor: The Water Valley Company
Supporting Sponsor: Journey Payroll & HR - CO
Associate Sponsors: Alchemer, The Emporium: An American Brasserie

Free Downloadable checklist:

Ever Feel Like Digital Marketing Has Its Own Language? You’re not alone. Between the jargon, acronyms, and constant updates, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But three strategies - SEO, AEO, and GEO stand out as the backbone of visibility and conversion in today’s digital world.
 
No matter the size or type of your business - a local cafe in Northern Colorado, managing an online store from Fort Collins, or growing a service-based brand in Greeley- understanding the difference between SEO, AEO, and GEO can help you attract more traffic, leads, and sales. It’s also the key to staying ahead of how people actually search today.
 
Let’s break them down. Simple. Clear. Actionable.
 What is SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?In Simple Terms :SEO is all about making your website show up on Google (and other search engines) when someone types in a query.
 
Key SEO Components:

• Keywords - What people type in search boxes.
• Meta titles & descriptions - The info that shows up in Google results.
• Backlinks - Other sites linking to your content.
• Technical SEO - Site speed, mobile-friendliness, structure.

 
Why SEO Still Rules in 2025:

• It drives organic traffic without paying for ads.
• Builds authority and trust over time.
• Helps you dominate on-page and blog-based search queries.

What is AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)?
Simply Put:AEO helps your content get picked up and presented as direct answers by AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE), Alexa, Siri, and more.
 
AEO Focuses On:

• Natural language and intent (what users really want).
• Structured data like FAQ schema and how-to markups.
• Concise, conversational answers ideal for snippets and AI pulls.

 
Why AEO is a 2025 Power Move:

• AI and voice searches are surging.
• People want quick, spoken answers - not just 10 blue links.
• Tools like Google’s AI Overviews and ChatGPT’s browsing favor clear, authoritative sources.

What is GEO (Geolocation Optimization)?
Local Made Simple:GEO targets people based on location. If you want your business to show up in “near me” searches or on Google Maps, GEO is your best friend.
 
GEO Tactics Include:

• Adding local keywords: “best tacos in Fort Collins,” “lawyer in Greeley.”
• Claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile.
• Getting listed in local directories and gaining reviews.

 
Why GEO is a Must for Local & Physical Businesses:

• People search with the intent to visit or buy nearby.
• “Open now near me” searches are peaking.
• GEO gets you in front of high-converting local audiences.

Each strategy has its lane - but when you align all three? You win the race!
 
How to Use SEO, AEO, & GEO Together
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Step by Step Strategy Stack
At Big Deal Company, we empower brands to dominate digital visibility through a proven three-tier strategy. First, we build a strong SEO foundation by optimizing the website and blogs with high-performing keywords, clean site structures, and search-friendly content. Then, we elevate that presence with Answer Engine Optimization (AEO). We achieve this by creating targeted content, including FAQ sections, how-to guides, and conversational responses, all tailored for AI tools, voice search, and featured snippets. Finally, we localize reach through GEO tactics, creating location-specific landing pages, boosting directory visibility, and encouraging authentic reviews to capture in-person traffic and regional engagement. Through these methods, businesses aren’t just found - they are chosen!
 
Optimization Checks
To maximize your visibility across search engines, AI tools, and local listings, we recommend this essential checklist:

• Use structured headers (H1, H2, H3) enriched with keywords and natural questions to guide both users and search crawlers.
• Craft content in a conversational tone to match AEO and voice search behaviors.
• Implement schema markup to help AI engines surface your content as trusted answers for FAQs, how-to guides, and local info. (This is a more advanced step - Big Deal Company can help guide you through this process.)
• Ensure your business is accurately listed on Google and relevant local directories to capture GEO-driven searches.
• Refresh your content regularly to stay relevant, human-focused, and algorithm-ready.

 
Final Thoughts: Why All Three Matter
SEO gets you found.
AEO gets you featured.
GEO gets you chosen.
 
Modern marketing isn’t about choosing one - it’s about mastering all three.

 ​When you combine traditional search with AI discovery and local relevance, you create a marketing strategy that’s future-proof, powerful, and hyper-targeted.
 
So the next time you update your content or plan a campaign, ask yourself: “Am I optimizing for SEO, AEO, and GEO?”
If not - it’s time to start! Big Deal Company is ready to help you master all three!

​Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the difference between SEO and AEO?               
SEO helps your site rank in traditional search engines. AEO ensures your answers are picked up by AI tools and voice search.

2. How can I optimize my content for voice search? Use natural questions, add FAQ sections, and format clear, concise answers. Schema markup helps, too.

3. What is a schema markup and why is it important?
Schema markup is a type of structured data code you add to your website that helps search engines and AI tools better understand your content. It highlights key elements like FAQs, reviews, business details, and how-to steps, making it easier for your content to appear in rich results, voice search responses, and AI-generated answers. By using schema, you’re telling search engines exactly what your content means-not just in what it says - boosting your visibility across SEO, AEO, and GEO platforms.

4. Does GEO help if I sell nationally or globally?
Yes - GEO can target localized micro-markets even within broader national campaigns.

5. Will AI tools like ChatGPT use my content?               
If your content is well-structured, informative, and optimized, AI tools may source or summarize your insights.

6. How do I combine all three strategies?               
Integrate: SEO for structure, AEO for answers, GEO for local. A content calendar helps you balance all three consistently.
 
Work with Big Deal Company
Big Deal Company specializes in strategic visibility - helping brands grow through expert SEO, cutting-edge AEO, and hyper-targeted GEO solutions. We can help you build your online presence, work to get your business and knowledge featured in AI-generated answers, and strategize to help you dominate local search in your market.
 
Let’s Connect! Follow us on social media for latest tips, insights, and success stories:

• Instagram: @bigdealcompanyco
• Facebook: Big Deal Company
• LinkedIn: Big Deal Company

 
Have a Project or Question?
Reach out anytime at [email protected] or visit our site at www.BigDealCompany.com to schedule a free consultation.
 
We don’t just get you found.
We make you unforgettable.

During times of economic uncertainty, our first instinct is to look for ways to cut costs to keep our businesses afloat. While this might seem like a logical step to conserve resources, reducing marketing efforts during a downturn can actually do more harm than good.
 
In reality, continuing to invest in marketing during tough times can provide businesses with a competitive advantage, build brand loyalty, and position them for long-term success – just ask Procter & Gamble, who notoriously doubled down on marketing efforts when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and saw revenues surge compared with their competitors.’
 
Here’s why investing in marketing during times of uncertainty is more important than ever:

​Maintain visibility while competitors disappear
When businesses cut back on marketing, they also reduce their visibility to potential customers. If your competitors scale back their marketing efforts but you remain active, your brand becomes more prominent. Procter & Gamble benefitted precisely because other Fortune 500 companies went dark when the pandemic caused massive market uncertainty.
Customers who continue to search for products and services will see your company first, helping you gain market share that might have otherwise gone to your competition.

Build brand trust and loyalty
During economic downturns, consumers are more selective about where they spend their money. Businesses that continue to communicate with their audience, provide value, and demonstrate stability will build trust.
When people see that your company is still present and engaging with customers despite economic hardships, they are more likely to view you as a reliable and trustworthy choice – worthy of spending their hard-earned dollars.

Take advantage of lower advertising costs
Marketing channels, including digital advertising, social media promotions, and traditional media, often see lower costs during economic downturns. With fewer companies competing for ad space, businesses that continue advertising can benefit from reduced costs per click, impression, or placement. This means you can achieve better reach and engagement while spending less than you would in a strong economy.

Position your business for recovery
Economic downturns don’t last forever. When the economy rebounds, businesses that maintained their marketing efforts will be in a much stronger position than those that went dark. An unnamed client recently saw calls from new customers decline by 82% within 5 months of cutting marketing services due to uncertainty.

Keeping your brand at the forefront of consumers’ minds ensures that when they are ready to spend again, they will think of you first.

Strengthen customer relationships
Marketing isn’t just about selling – it’s about building relationships. During uncertain times, customers appreciate brands that provide valuable information, offer solutions, and show empathy. Content marketing, email campaigns, and social media engagement allow businesses to stay connected with their audience in a meaningful way, fostering long-term loyalty.
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Adapt and innovate for changing consumer needs
Economic shifts often bring changes in consumer behavior. Companies that continue investing in marketing can track trends, gather data, and adjust their strategies accordingly. Whether it’s shifting to more digital channels, offering promotions, or refining messaging, staying active allows businesses to adapt to customer needs in real time.
 
During recessions, successful marketing can lead to increased market share, as seen with Starbucks, McDonald's, and Hyundai, who adapted their strategies to capitalize on consumer behavior shifts and maintain or grow their market position. 
Here's a breakdown of how these brands, successfully navigated recessions through smart marketing:

1. Starbucks:

• Context:

During the 2008 financial crisis, Starbucks faced a 28% drop in profits, but they pivoted to focus on building personalized customer relationships and embracing newer technologies like mobile apps. 

• Strategy:

They continued to open new locations, especially abroad (like in China), at a rapid pace, demonstrating a commitment to growth even during tough times. 

• Outcome:

Starbucks became the largest coffee retailer with a 40% market share by 2019. 

2. McDonald's:

• Context:

During the 2008 recession, McDonald's not only managed to stay afloat but also grabbed significant market share from competitors like Burger King and Yum Brands. 

• Strategy:

They implemented a value-focused menu (like the Dollar Menu) and a shrewd marketing strategy that involved taking advantage of cheaper TV ad rates. 

• Outcome:

McDonald's grew in 2008, with sales exceeding both 2006 and 2007, before the financial impact was felt worldwide. 

3. Hyundai:

• Context:

In 2009, the auto industry was struggling, and Hyundai USA strengthened its marketing efforts.

• Strategy:

They invested in Super Bowl and Academy Awards commercial slots and a customer-focused ad campaign.

• Outcome:

Hyundai's market share increased from 3.1% to 4.3%, while competitors experienced a 22% sales drop, and Hyundai increased vehicle sales by 5%. 

While cutting marketing costs may seem like a quick fix to protect your bottom line, it can have long-term consequences. Investing in marketing during economic uncertainty not only helps sustain your business in the present but also prepares you for future growth. The businesses that remain visible, build trust, and adapt to changing circumstances are the ones that emerge stronger when the economy bounces back.

At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in creating impactful marketing strategies that help businesses thrive – even in challenging times. If you’re looking to maintain momentum and stay ahead of the competition, contact us today to learn how we can support your brand’s growth.

Let’s face it, conferences aren’t just about name tags and breakout sessions anymore. Today’s destination conferences are all about blending purpose with experience, turning what used to be a work trip into something people genuinely look forward to.
The good news? That shift brings fresh energy to corporate events.

Download our free printable below.

​Choosing between in-house and outsourced marketing is a crucial decision that impacts your brand’s growth, efficiency, and ROI (return on investment). Each approach offers unique benefits, and the right choice depends on various factors, such as budget, scalability, and creative needs.
 
At Big Deal Company, we understand that marketing is more than just strategy - it’s about creativity, connection, and delivering results. As a leading marketing collective, we specialize in high-impact campaigns, event planning, and brand growth strategies. Whether you’re looking to build an internal team or leverage expert outsourced marketing services, we help businesses navigate the best approach to achieve their marketing goals. Let’s dive into the benefits of both in-house and outsourced marketing to help you and your business make an informed decision.

In-House Marketing
Pros:

• Deep Brand Understanding - Your team lives and breathes your brand, ensuring messaging aligns with our company’s voice and values.
• Direct Communication - Immediate feedback and collaboration lead to quick decision-making and adaptability.
• Complete Control - You oversee all strategies and executions, providing alignment with your exact standards and objectives.

Cons:

• Higher Costs - Salaries, benefits, training, and tools add up, making it a significant investment.
• Limited Skill Sets - Your team might lack specialized expertise, requiring additional training or hires.
• Scalability Challenges - Expanding or reducing the team based on project needs can be slow and costly.

Outsourced Marketing
​Pros:

• Access to Experts - Agencies offer specialized skills across various marketing disciplines, ensuring high-quality execution.
• Cost-Effective - You pay for services as needed, avoiding the overhead associated with full-time employees.
• Scalability and Flexibility - Easily adjust the level of services based on your current needs without long-term commitments.

Cons:

• Less Brand Familiarity - External teams may require time to fully grasp your brand’s nuances and values.
• Communication Delays - Working with external partners can sometimes lead to slower decisions and implementation (due to delays on both sides!).
• Potential Misalignment - There’s a risk that the agency’s vision doesn’t perfectly align with your brand’s goals.

Financial Considerations
Hiring an in-house marketing team involves significant costs, including salaries and benefits. For example, hiring a marketing manager, content creator, SEO specialist, and designer can collectively cost over $150,000 (conservatively) annually.
 
Engaging an agency like Big Deal Company can be more economical. Monthly retainer rates for comprehensive services like SEO, PPC, and content marketing can total around $7500 or less, offering a broad range of expertise without the long-term financial commitment.
 
Creation and Ideation
In-house teams will have an intimate understanding of your brand. They will have an easy time fostering ideas that align well with company culture and objectives.
 
Outsourced agencies can bring fresh perspectives to your vision and goals. Contracted agencies typically have teams that can draw on diverse experiences across industries, which can lead to innovative and creatively unique campaigns.

​Which One Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your business’s size, budget, and marketing goals. If you need a hands-on team that fully embodies your brand or you deal with sensitive information that needs to reach niche audiences, an in-house team might be the way to go. If you want access to top-tier expertise that is always on top of the latest trends and that can provide flexibility and cost savings, outsourcing could be the smarter move.
 
At BIG DEAL Company, we specialize in bringing creativity to life - whether through unique marketing strategies, innovative campaigns, or unforgettable events. We’re purveyors of fun, passionate about growth, and dedicated to making every client a priority. If you’re looking for a marketing partner that delivers results with energy and originality, let’s make something amazing together!
 

BIG DEAL Company was extatic to be selected as the retreat planning partner for Edgewise Therapeutics and their all company retreat, held in Fort Lauderdale, FL - January 2025.
After months and months of careful planning, our client enjoyed multiple onsite training and break out sessions, countless activities and memorable experiences. Our guests stayed at the beautiful Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club.

175 guests explored the expansive property and took part in pickleball, yoga, a painting class. go kart races, a heated pool, welcome party on the beach, shopping, nightlife and a privately catered cruise on a private yacht!

BIG DEAL worked with the hotel, offsite vendors, rentals, lighting, A/V, catering, and all activity providers to give the Edgewise team an enjoyable time together in Fort Lauderdale!

Congratulations to the BizWest team for a successful 2025 Economic Forecast event! A tremendous amount of information, and outlooks for the upcoming year.
Renowned economist Dr. Rich Wobbekind provided insights into where the economy has been and where it’s going at this highly popular luncheon, attended by over 500 people.

BIG DEAL Company is the proud planning company of BizWest.