Branding Proposal

Branding Services Proposal Template

Win more branding projects with a proposal that demonstrates strategic thinking, creative excellence, and comprehensive brand development.

Proposal Template Sections

Project Overview

Start with a compelling overview of the branding project and your approach.

Section 1
Thank you for considering [Agency Name] for your branding project. A strong brand identity is essential for [Client Name] to differentiate itself in the market, connect with your target audience, and drive business growth. Based on our initial discussions, we understand that [specific branding needs/challenges]. Our proposed branding solution will create a cohesive, memorable brand identity that reflects your values, resonates with your audience, and positions you for long-term success. This proposal outlines our comprehensive approach to brand development, including strategy, visual identity design, brand guidelines, and implementation support. We're excited to help [Client Name] build a brand that truly represents who you are and where you're going.

Brand Discovery & Research

Explain your discovery process and what you'll learn about their business.

Section 2
Our branding process begins with deep discovery to understand your business, market, and audience. We'll conduct: Stakeholder interviews with key team members to understand your vision, values, and goals. Market research to analyze your competitive landscape and identify differentiation opportunities. Audience research to understand your target customers' needs, preferences, and perceptions. Brand audit of your current brand assets and how they're being used. This discovery phase ensures that every design decision is informed by strategy and aligned with your business objectives. We'll synthesize our findings into a Brand Strategy Document that will guide all creative development, ensuring your new brand identity is both strategically sound and creatively compelling.

Brand Strategy & Positioning

Present your brand strategy including positioning, values, personality, and messaging.

Section 3
Based on our discovery, we'll develop a comprehensive brand strategy that serves as the foundation for all creative work. Brand positioning: [Client Name] will be positioned as [positioning statement]—differentiating you from competitors through [key differentiators]. Brand values: Core values of [Value 1], [Value 2], and [Value 3] will guide all brand communications and experiences. Brand personality: Your brand personality will be [adjective 1], [adjective 2], and [adjective 3], reflected in tone of voice, visual style, and brand behavior. Brand promise: [Promise statement] that you'll deliver to customers consistently. Target audience: Primary audience of [description] who values [values] and responds to [messaging approach]. Messaging framework: Key messages including [Message 1], [Message 2], and [Message 3] that will be used across all communications. This strategy ensures your brand identity is meaningful, differentiated, and aligned with your business goals.

Visual Identity Design

Detail the visual identity components you'll create.

Section 4
We'll create a complete visual identity system that brings your brand strategy to life. Logo design: Primary logo mark that works across all applications, with [X] logo variations (horizontal, vertical, icon-only) for different use cases. Logo concepts: We'll present [X] distinct logo concepts in the first round, with [X] rounds of revisions to refine the selected direction. Color palette: Primary color palette of [X] colors with specific use guidelines, plus secondary and accent colors. Each color will have defined usage rules and accessibility considerations. Typography: Primary typeface ([Font Name]) for headlines and brand communications, plus secondary typeface ([Font Name]) for body text. We'll provide font files and usage guidelines. Imagery style: Defined photography and illustration style guidelines, including subject matter, composition, color treatment, and mood. Iconography: Custom icon set (if applicable) or icon style guidelines for consistent visual language. Pattern/texture: Brand patterns or textures (if applicable) for added visual interest. All visual elements will be designed to work together cohesively while maintaining flexibility for various applications.

Brand Guidelines & Documentation

Explain the brand guidelines you'll deliver and what they include.

Section 5
Comprehensive brand guidelines ensure your brand is used consistently and correctly across all touchpoints. The guidelines will include: Brand overview: Brand story, positioning, values, and personality. Logo usage: Logo specifications, clear space requirements, minimum sizes, incorrect usage examples, and logo variations for different backgrounds. Color system: Color palette with hex/RGB/CMYK values, usage guidelines, accessibility considerations, and color combinations. Typography: Typeface specifications, hierarchy, sizing guidelines, and text formatting rules. Imagery: Photography and illustration style guidelines, subject matter, composition rules, and examples. Voice and tone: Writing guidelines, tone of voice examples, messaging framework, and communication do's and don'ts. Application examples: Real-world examples showing how the brand is applied across various materials (business cards, website, social media, packaging, etc.). The guidelines will be delivered as a [format] document (PDF, online guide, or both) that serves as the definitive resource for anyone working with your brand.

Brand Applications & Collateral

List the specific brand applications and collateral you'll design.

Section 6
We'll apply your new brand identity across key touchpoints to ensure consistent brand experience. Included applications: Business cards, letterhead, and email signature design. Social media profile designs (profile pictures, cover images, templates). Website design application (if part of scope) or website design guidelines. Presentation template design for [platform]. [X] social media post templates. [Other specific applications discussed]. Each application will be designed to showcase your brand identity while serving its functional purpose. We'll provide source files in the appropriate formats (print-ready PDFs, web-optimized files, editable templates) and ensure all applications follow brand guidelines. Additional applications beyond the core set can be added as needed, and we can provide ongoing design support for new materials as your brand evolves.

Implementation & Rollout Strategy

Present your plan for implementing the new brand.

Section 7
A successful brand launch requires careful planning and phased implementation. Our rollout strategy includes: Phase 1: Internal launch (Weeks 1-2) - Introduce the new brand to your team, provide brand guidelines training, and update internal materials. Phase 2: Digital presence (Weeks 3-4) - Launch new website (if applicable), update social media profiles, and implement digital brand applications. Phase 3: Marketing materials (Weeks 5-6) - Update marketing collateral, email templates, and digital advertising creative. Phase 4: Physical materials (Weeks 7-8) - Update business cards, signage, packaging, and other physical touchpoints. We'll provide: Brand asset package with all files organized and labeled, Implementation checklist to track rollout progress, Brand guidelines training session for your team, and Support during the transition period. We recommend a [X]-month transition period to fully implement the new brand across all touchpoints, and we'll be available to answer questions and provide guidance throughout.

Timeline & Milestones

Provide a detailed project timeline with specific milestones.

Section 8
The complete branding project timeline is [X] weeks from kickoff to final delivery. Key milestones: Weeks 1-2: Discovery and research (Deliverable: Brand Strategy Document). Weeks 3-4: Logo concept development (Deliverable: [X] logo concepts for review). Weeks 5-6: Logo refinement and visual identity development (Deliverable: Refined logo and color/typography system). Weeks 7-8: Brand application design (Deliverable: Application designs for review). Weeks 9-10: Brand guidelines development and final refinements (Deliverable: Complete brand guidelines and final assets). Each milestone includes a review and approval checkpoint. We'll provide status updates weekly and are available for questions throughout the process. The timeline can be adjusted based on your availability for reviews and feedback, though we recommend maintaining the pace to keep momentum and ensure timely delivery.

Revision Process

Explain how revisions work for branding projects.

Section 9
We include [X] rounds of revisions for logo concepts and [X] rounds for each brand application to ensure the final deliverables meet your expectations. Revision process: After each major deliverable (logo concepts, visual identity, applications), you'll have [X] business days to provide consolidated feedback. We'll incorporate feedback and present updated designs. Major changes (complete redesigns, new concepts) are outside the standard revision process and may require additional time and investment. Minor refinements (color adjustments, spacing tweaks, typography refinements) are included. We ask that you provide feedback from key stakeholders in a consolidated format to ensure we can address all concerns efficiently. Our goal is to get it right within the included revisions, so we'll work closely with you to understand and implement your feedback. After the included revisions, additional changes are available at [rate] per hour.

Investment & Pricing

Present branding project pricing clearly.

Section 10
The total investment for this comprehensive branding project is $[amount], which includes all deliverables outlined in the scope. This investment covers: Complete brand strategy development, Logo design with [X] concepts and [X] rounds of revisions, Full visual identity system (colors, typography, imagery), Brand guidelines documentation, [X] brand applications, Source files in all required formats, Brand asset package, and [X] hours of implementation support. Payment terms: 50% deposit ($[amount]) due upon contract signing to begin work, 25% ($[amount]) due upon logo approval, and 25% ($[amount]) due upon final delivery. We also offer optional add-ons: Additional logo variations ($[amount] each), Extra brand applications ($[amount] each), Extended brand guidelines with more examples ($[amount]), Ongoing design support retainer ($[amount]/month), and Brand photography/imagery ($[amount]). We can customize the scope and pricing based on your specific needs and budget.

Why Choose Our Branding Services

Highlight your unique strengths and relevant experience.

Section 11
What sets [Agency Name] apart is our combination of strategic thinking, creative excellence, and commitment to creating brands that drive business results. We've developed brand identities for [X] companies across [industries], including [notable clients] whose brands have become industry leaders. Our team brings [X] years of combined experience in brand strategy, identity design, and brand implementation. We understand that branding is more than just a logo—it's the complete experience your customers have with your company. Our process ensures that every design decision is informed by strategy and aligned with your business goals. We're also committed to your long-term success—we don't just deliver files, we ensure you understand how to use your brand and are available for support as you grow. Our portfolio demonstrates our ability to create distinctive, memorable brands that resonate with audiences and drive business growth.

Next Steps

Provide clear next steps.

Section 12
We're excited about the opportunity to help [Client Name] build a powerful brand identity that drives business success. To move forward, please review this proposal and let us know if you have any questions or would like to discuss any aspects in more detail. Once you're ready to proceed, we'll send over a project agreement for your review and signature. Upon receiving the signed agreement and deposit, we'll schedule the discovery kickoff meeting within one week. Our goal is to begin the brand strategy development immediately and have your new brand identity ready within [timeline]. We're here to answer any questions and can adjust this proposal based on your specific needs, timeline, or budget. Let's create a brand that truly represents [Client Name] and sets you up for long-term success.

How to use: Copy each section above and customize it for your client. Replace placeholders (like [Client Name], [Agency Name], etc.) with your actual information. Adapt the content to match your specific services, pricing, and client's needs.

Key Features of This Proposal Template

Brand Strategy Framework

Includes a comprehensive brand strategy section covering brand positioning, values, personality, and messaging. Shows clients you understand strategic branding, not just visual design.

Visual Identity Components

Details all visual identity elements including logo design, color palette, typography, imagery style, and application examples. Demonstrates the complete visual system you'll create.

Brand Guidelines Documentation

Outlines the comprehensive brand guidelines you'll deliver, including usage rules, do's and don'ts, and application examples. Shows clients how their brand will be protected and used consistently.

Implementation & Rollout Plan

Presents a phased approach to implementing the new brand across all touchpoints. Includes timeline, priorities, and support for brand rollout to ensure smooth transition.

Competitive Differentiation

Analyzes competitors and shows how the new brand will differentiate the client in the market. Demonstrates strategic thinking and market understanding.

Brand Asset Delivery

Lists all brand assets that will be delivered in various formats and specifications. Ensures clients understand exactly what files and resources they'll receive.

Pro Tips for Writing Proposals

  • Show brand examples from your portfolio that are relevant to the client's industry or style preferences. Visual examples help clients envision what you'll create.
  • Emphasize the strategic foundation. Clients need to understand that good branding is built on strategy, not just aesthetics. Show how strategy informs design decisions.
  • Be specific about deliverables and file formats. Clients want to know exactly what they'll receive and in what formats (vector files, web files, print files, etc.).
  • Address brand implementation proactively. Many clients underestimate the work involved in rolling out a new brand. Provide support options and realistic timelines.
  • Explain the value of brand guidelines. Help clients understand why comprehensive guidelines are essential for brand consistency and long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many logo concepts should a branding proposal include?

Typically, 3-5 logo concepts in the first round is standard. This gives clients options without overwhelming them. Present distinct directions rather than slight variations—each concept should represent a different strategic or stylistic approach. After the client selects a direction, you'll refine that concept through 2-3 revision rounds. Be clear about what's included in revisions (refinements) versus what would require new concepts (major changes). The proposal should specify the number of concepts and revision rounds included.

What should be included in brand guidelines?

Comprehensive brand guidelines should include: Brand overview (story, positioning, values), Logo usage (specifications, clear space, minimum sizes, incorrect usage), Color system (palette with values, usage guidelines, accessibility), Typography (typefaces, hierarchy, sizing), Imagery style (photography/illustration guidelines), Voice and tone (writing guidelines, messaging), and Application examples (real-world usage). The depth depends on the client's needs—some need extensive guidelines for large teams, while others need simpler guides. Include what's necessary for consistent brand usage.

How do I price a branding project?

Branding project pricing varies significantly based on scope: Basic brand identity ($5,000-$15,000) for logo, colors, typography, basic guidelines. Comprehensive branding ($15,000-$50,000) for full strategy, complete visual identity, extensive guidelines, multiple applications. Enterprise branding ($50,000+) for large-scale rebrands with extensive applications and implementation support. Base pricing on: Strategy depth, number of logo concepts, complexity of visual system, number of applications, guidelines comprehensiveness, and project timeline. Always explain what's included and offer add-ons for additional services.

Should I include brand applications in the base proposal?

Yes, include core brand applications that demonstrate how the brand works in practice. Typical core applications: business cards, letterhead, social media profiles, email signature, and maybe a presentation template. This shows clients the complete brand system, not just a logo. Additional applications (website design, packaging, signage, etc.) can be separate line items or add-ons. Be clear about what's included versus what's additional. Applications help clients visualize the brand and understand its versatility.

How long should a branding project take?

Branding projects typically take 8-12 weeks from kickoff to final delivery, depending on scope and complexity. Timeline breakdown: Discovery (2 weeks), Logo concepts (2 weeks), Refinement (2 weeks), Visual identity (2 weeks), Applications (2 weeks), Guidelines (2 weeks). Factor in client review time (3-5 business days per milestone) and potential revision rounds. Be realistic about timelines—rushing leads to poor results. Include buffer time for unexpected delays. The proposal should show a detailed timeline with specific milestones and deliverables.

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