Quad Cities First Logo and Website

Project Description

Quad Cities First, the Quad Cities economic development organization created to replace the Quad City Development Group and co-led by the Iowa and Illinois Quad Cities Chambers, came to Silver Oaks for the development and creation of its new branding identity.

The first component of the brand identity was the creation of a new logo. Silver Oaks and Quad Cities First came together to discuss and review marketing research to determine what factors make this region unique and how the Quad Cities would like outsiders to view them…today and in the future, as one whole unit.

The outcome was a “logo that represents the many strengths of our region and, with its stylized Q, reflects uniqueness,” said William Becker, chairman of a task force made up of Quad Cities First board of directors members overseeing the logo project.

Anchored by a bold serif font, the stylized “Q” of the design acts as a frame for this graphic representation of the Quad Cities, and emphasizes the Quad Cities’ great location and scenic beauty. The swoosh tail of the “Q” depicts the Mississippi River and the Quad Cities’ central location; the field represents the region’s rich natural agricultural resources; the unique bridge architecture and skyline illustrate the Quad Cities region’s industrial capabilities and transportation infrastructure, thus bringing together this region’s urban and rural appeal.

The new logo will be used to carry out the brand identity of Quad Cities First and will be featured soon on websites, brochures, flyers, e-newsletters and tradeshow displays created specifically to attract new business to the region.

This project won a Gold ADDY Award at the 2011 Quad Cities AAF competition.