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Venture Investments
When it makes sense for everyone involved, we exchange our services for equity. This is typically done on a part cash, part equity basis (just think of us as a value-adding angel investor). In select cases, we will also act as the design co-founder on a new venture.
Investing in your success
The team at UntilNow developed a strategic roadmap for our future and then delivered an incredible identity to convey this vision
Alternaleaf
GM of Marketing
Alternaleaf
We are confident in the value we create
We are happy to put a portion of our fees at risk when working with a values-aligned company referred to us by a trusted partner or investor. We have a very simple and transparent approach. We trade part of the value of our services for equity in your company at your current valuation. We aim to only take a very small stake, with the goal of becoming a long-term partner in your success.
Results
$
3.4
B
total client value
$
950
M
raised by our clients
51.2
X
average value increase
What can we help you with?
We know startup life—because we’ve built our own. Our team came together in a startup, so we’ve lived the rollercoaster. We’ve seen the drag of bloated dev houses and the strain of big-agency price tags. Too often, that kind of overhead stalls or sinks great ideas. That’s why we back early-stage teams with high-impact design and tech. When there’s a strong fit, we’ll even roll up our sleeves and invest our time for equity. You bring the ambition, we’ll help build what’s next.
UntilNow helped us shape a product and brand that truly resonated with our vision. Their approach was both strategic and deeply creative—they pushed us to make brave decisions, and backed it up with design that’s intuitive, distinctive, and full of heart. We couldn’t have asked for better design partners.
CEO & Co-Founder
KindiCover
The work UntilNow did added tens of millions of dollars to the value of our company
Co-founder
Envizi (acquired by IBM)
UntilNow has really helped us push a brand that stands out and differentiates. That’s why we are willing to say “we can take that leap forward”.
CEO & Co-founder
Cake
It’s been a highly collaborative process, from the start right through to scale. UntilNow took the time. It’s been a highly collaborative process, from the start right through to scale. UntilNow took the time.
Co-Founder
Carma
It’s rare that you come across a standout group of talent people like the guys at UntilNow.
Cofounder
Company not specified
As our principal product design partner, UntilNow have helped drive our greatest period of growth
Head of Product Experience
Spriggy
UntilNow has masterfully crafted a visual identity for Kaiso that not only aligns with our vision, but also sets us apart in the marketplace.
Founder
Kaiso
Working with the UntilNow team has been a dream. Their dedication to going above and beyond have truly made them invaluable partners.
Founder & CEO
Flagship
The team at UntilNow elevated our brand to world-class. We're already seeing the impact.
CEO
Bigger
UntilNow picked the perfect name and crafted a visual identity that resonates with our audience.
Co-Founder
Tandem
The collaboration resulted in an authentic brand that embodies Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. We are delighted with the outcomes and believe our updated brand will raise awareness and build trust.
Director of Marketing & Stakeholder Engagement
Chris O'Brien Lifehouse
We are extremely happy with the end result, I can't wait to see our new branding deployed on all our assets.
Co-founder
PropHero
The team at UntilNow developed a strategic roadmap for our future and then delivered an incredible identity to convey this vision
GM of Marketing
Alternaleaf
We think our new brand is fantastic and we’re beyond impressed with the process and team at UntilNow
Co-host
The Startup Podcast
They are very efficient and have strong expertise in their field. We won't hesitate to recommend their services to startups, scale ups and corporates.
CEO
Sven
UntilNow nailed the brief. It was disruptive, innovative and exceptionally polished.
Chief Marketing Officer
Pepperstone
They think holistically and have a meticulous eye for detail. The team is a mix of super talented designers, engineers and conceptual thinkers.
CEO and Co-Founder
Pathzero
It was a highly collaborative process that enabled us to experiment with a wide variety of ideas and to incorporate findings quickly.
Co-Founder
Carma
They showed a unique ability to put themselves in our users’ shoes and perceive how they might interact with our product with an incredible awareness of the engineering perspective.
Co-founder
Contrax
The team took my scraps of a brief and intuitively knew what would resonate best with our audience.
Founder and CEO
Company not specified
UntilNow was able to bridge the gap between design and business, working closely with the team to help us break down complex UX problems and generate actionable insights.
Co-Founder
Giggable
By taking the time to develop a genuine understanding of our business and where we want to go StudioDe have created a powerful new visual identity that has been transformative for our us.
CEO
BoozeBud
What we do
Equity Partner
We provide our services in a traditional ‘fee for service’ model, but also enter equity or revenue-share arrangements with select clients where it makes sense for everyone involved.
*Estimation are in US Dollars and are subject of revision yearly.
Venture Investments
Project-based
Discount on total project cost in exchange for equity
Product Support
Suitable for short projects where the scope and team are well defined and the project can be accurately quantified end-to-end.
Example
- Original project fee: $100k*
- Cash component: $80k*
- Equity component: $20k*
- Equivalent to 20% of project fee
Starting at
/Month
Min of 3 Months
Venture Investments
Retainer-based
Discount on weekly project cost in exchange for equity
Product Support
Suitable for projects where the scope is subject to change and/or where resources are needed on an ongoing basis.
Example
- Original weekly fee: $5k*
- Cash component: $4k*
- Equity component: $1k*
- Equivalent to 20% of project fee
Starting at
/Month
Min of 3 Months
Engagement
Custom
Tell us what you need and we will define the best approach based on your needs
Venture Investments
Co-Creation
Tell us what you need and we will work with you to define the best approach.
FAQs
How do you ensure a scalable codebase?
We follow best practices, use modular components, and optimise performance for long-term growth.
Can you integrate with an existing development team?
Yes! We collaborate with internal and external dev teams to ensure a smooth handoff.
What technologies do you work with?
We specialise in modern frameworks like React, Next.js, and Webflow, among others.
How do you measure success?
We work with a selection of trusted partners to track engagement, conversion rates, and audience growth to refine strategies over time.
Do you offer content creation services?
Yes, we create branded content, from social media visuals to campaigns to long-form storytelling.
What platforms do you focus on for audience growth?
We can tailor strategies for websites, social media, email marketing, and community engagement.
Can you help with redesigning an existing product?
Yes! We can refine your existing product’s UX/UI to improve usability and engagement. This is often where we can add the most value.
How do you ensure great user experience (UX)?
We conduct user research, usability testing, and iterative design to optimise user journeys.
Do you design for web, mobile, or both?
We design for web apps, mobile apps, and multi-platform experiences. Whatever you need!
Can you help with deciding what to design/build?
Yes. This is one of our core value adds. We have been there and done it multiple times. We can help you decide what is going to have the biggest impact at each stage of your journey.
Can you refresh an existing brand?
Absolutely! We specialise in evolving brands while preserving their core identity.
How long does the branding process take?
Most branding projects take 6–8 weeks, depending on scope and complexity.
What if I want to keep part of my brand and change the rest?
Not a problem. We can refine and modernise specific elements while maintaining the others
What’s included in your brand-building services?
We create brand strategy, naming, visual identity, messaging, and guidelines to ensure a cohesive brand experience.
Do you offer service-for-equity to everyone?
Not every business is a good candidate for a variety of reasons. We work with a select number of companies each year when it makes sense for everyone involved.
How much equity do you take?
Very little. We simply convert our discount on fees into equity at the current valuation. Typically this converts at less than 1% equity.
How do you choose which startups to invest in?
We look for innovative ideas, strong founding teams, and alignment with our expertise in brand and product design. We also highly value introductions from our trusted partners.
What is a venture studio?
It can mean different things. In our case, it means that when it makes sense for everyone involved, we provide a portion of our services in exchange for equity.
How does fractional differ from a retainer?
Fractional services focus on leadership and strategy, while retainers are more execution-based.
How is a fractional engagement structured?
We work with you for a set number of hours per week, integrating into your team like an internal hire.
Who is fractional design best suited for?
Startups and growing businesses that need expert design leadership but aren’t ready to hire full-time.
What is a fractional design service?
We act as your part-time design advisor, providing strategic and executional support without the cost of hiring in-house.
What is the minimum retainer commitment?
Our minimum commitment is three months to ensure we deliver meaningful impact.
Can I adjust the scope each month?
Yes, we can shift priorities based on your evolving needs.
When does a project make sense?
When the outcome and deliverables are well defined. When it is a bit more ambiguous, a retainer can be a better option.
How long does a typical project take?
Timelines vary depending on scope, but most projects take between 4 to 12 weeks.
Do you provide post-launch support?
Yes, we can offer ongoing support to refine and optimise your product after launch if needed.
What is a design retainer, and how does it work?
A retainer gives you access to our team on an ongoing basis for a set number of days per month.
What are the benefits of a retainer vs. a project?
A retainer provides flexibility, continuous improvements, and a dedicated team that understands your brand and product.
Some of our clients
From early-stage startups to ambitious scaleups, we partner with bold teams bringing transformative ideas to life. Each collaboration reflects our passion for crafting thoughtful, impactful solutions—whether it’s building memorable brands, designing seamless digital experiences, or solving complex challenges with clarity and purpose. Together, we create work that drives progress and leaves a lasting impression.
Why we started
Founders are stretched thin trying to make progress on multiple fronts, whilst tirelessly seeking capital and talent. Design plays a critical role in a company’s success, but its value is often misunderstood. Great design creates a seamless, intuitive experience that aligns with user needs and expectations. It not only attracts new users but also keeps them engaged and satisfied, building loyalty and driving long-term business value.
Knowing where to get the right design support is tough. Big agencies are often cost-prohibitive. Freelancers and internal hires often lack all the skills that you need.
That’s where UntilNow comes in.
We combine real-world expertise with a deep understanding of the startup journey. We provide founders with both advice and execution. Helping them scale from idea to growth with the right combination of expertise at every step of the way.
Who you’ll work with
Fractional support from people who’ve done it before.
We bring together UntilNow team members and independent experts to offer high-impact, hands-on support.
Rob McCreery
Managing Director
Helps clients set long-term strategy that will lead to success, whilst also managing the UntilNow business and helping it grow. Previously: Deloitte, Fusion Labs.
Kaga Bryan
Head of Brand and Strategy
Helps clients build compelling brand and creative strategies, whilst also leading strategic direction at UntilNow. Previously: The Iconic, Publicis Groupe.
Francesco de Chirico
Owner & Director
Helps clients define and deliver high-impact product and design strategies. Previously: Airtasker, The Iconic, Campaign Monitor.
Berty Bhuruth
Principal Product Designer
Helps clients define user-led product experiences and solve complex problems through thoughtful design. Previously: Honeywell, Canon.
Engagement
Custom
Tell us what you need and we will define the best approach based on your needs
What we do
How do we work?
We provide our services in a traditional ‘fee for service’ model, but also enter equity or revenue-share arrangements with select clients where it makes sense for everyone involved.
Venture Investments
Project-based
Discount on total project cost in exchange for equity
BEst for
Suitable for short projects where the scope and team are well defined and the project can be accurately quantified end-to-end.
Example
- Original project fee: $100k*
- Cash component: $80k*
- Equity component: $20k*
- Equivalent to 20% of project fee
Starting at
/Month
Min of 3 Months
Venture Investments
Retainer-based
Discount on weekly project cost in exchange for equity
BEst for
Suitable for projects where the scope is subject to change and/or where resources are needed on an ongoing basis.
Example
- Original weekly fee: $5k*
- Cash component: $4k*
- Equity component: $1k*
- Equivalent to 20% of project fee
Starting at
/Month
Min of 3 Months
Engagement
Custom
Tell us what you need and we will define the best approach based on your needs
What can we help you with?
Our goal is to help companies unlock great ideas and get them to market quickly.
FAQs
How do you ensure a scalable codebase?
We follow best practices, use modular components, and optimise performance for long-term growth.
Can you integrate with an existing development team?
Yes! We collaborate with internal and external dev teams to ensure a smooth handoff.
What technologies do you work with?
We specialise in modern frameworks like React, Next.js, and Webflow, among others.
How do you measure success?
We work with a selection of trusted partners to track engagement, conversion rates, and audience growth to refine strategies over time.
Do you offer content creation services?
Yes, we create branded content, from social media visuals to campaigns to long-form storytelling.
What platforms do you focus on for audience growth?
We can tailor strategies for websites, social media, email marketing, and community engagement.
Can you help with redesigning an existing product?
Yes! We can refine your existing product’s UX/UI to improve usability and engagement. This is often where we can add the most value.
How do you ensure great user experience (UX)?
We conduct user research, usability testing, and iterative design to optimise user journeys.
Do you design for web, mobile, or both?
We design for web apps, mobile apps, and multi-platform experiences. Whatever you need!
Can you help with deciding what to design/build?
Yes. This is one of our core value adds. We have been there and done it multiple times. We can help you decide what is going to have the biggest impact at each stage of your journey.
Can you refresh an existing brand?
Absolutely! We specialise in evolving brands while preserving their core identity.
How long does the branding process take?
Most branding projects take 6–8 weeks, depending on scope and complexity.
What if I want to keep part of my brand and change the rest?
Not a problem. We can refine and modernise specific elements while maintaining the others
What’s included in your brand-building services?
We create brand strategy, naming, visual identity, messaging, and guidelines to ensure a cohesive brand experience.
Do you offer service-for-equity to everyone?
Not every business is a good candidate for a variety of reasons. We work with a select number of companies each year when it makes sense for everyone involved.
How much equity do you take?
Very little. We simply convert our discount on fees into equity at the current valuation. Typically this converts at less than 1% equity.
How do you choose which startups to invest in?
We look for innovative ideas, strong founding teams, and alignment with our expertise in brand and product design. We also highly value introductions from our trusted partners.
What is a venture studio?
It can mean different things. In our case, it means that when it makes sense for everyone involved, we provide a portion of our services in exchange for equity.
How does fractional differ from a retainer?
Fractional services focus on leadership and strategy, while retainers are more execution-based.
How is a fractional engagement structured?
We work with you for a set number of hours per week, integrating into your team like an internal hire.
Who is fractional design best suited for?
Startups and growing businesses that need expert design leadership but aren’t ready to hire full-time.
What is a fractional design service?
We act as your part-time design advisor, providing strategic and executional support without the cost of hiring in-house.
What is the minimum retainer commitment?
Our minimum commitment is three months to ensure we deliver meaningful impact.
Can I adjust the scope each month?
Yes, we can shift priorities based on your evolving needs.
When does a project make sense?
When the outcome and deliverables are well defined. When it is a bit more ambiguous, a retainer can be a better option.
How long does a typical project take?
Timelines vary depending on scope, but most projects take between 4 to 12 weeks.
Do you provide post-launch support?
Yes, we can offer ongoing support to refine and optimise your product after launch if needed.
What is a design retainer, and how does it work?
A retainer gives you access to our team on an ongoing basis for a set number of days per month.
What are the benefits of a retainer vs. a project?
A retainer provides flexibility, continuous improvements, and a dedicated team that understands your brand and product.
How we do it
Startup pace
You want to move fast. So do we. We operate as a nimble, high-powered team working hand-in-hand with early-stage founders. We know your world and understand the tradeoffs. We help you to prioritise design tasks to have the greatest impact.
Shared tools and access
We can work in your figma (or ours - whatever is best for you) so that you can have an easy to access for our work.
Sydney-based, globally powered
We hire the best from every corner of the world and get out of their way to let them do their life’s work. Each person on your team is hand-selected based on expertise and project chemistry to bring your product vision to life.
Action not just activity
We’re allergic to agency overhead, bureaucracy, and process. We only hire practitioners of their craft who are in the work, partnering closely with our clients on a daily basis.
Highly collaborative
Expect stand-ups, workshops and ceremonies to keep you in the loop. We’ll involve you as much as you’d like to be involved this also extends towards any advisors, or others who you would like to bring along on the journey.
Strategy with execution
Exploring the right questions is as important speed of delivery. We seek to understand the problem you aim to solve, and how design is best leverage to boost business impact. This informs how we build the product now to efficiently achieve your future goals.
Case Studies
Sven
Taking the pain out of temporary work
Pathzero
Simplifying sustainability for SMEs
Carma
Launching a $101M online car dealership (and so much more)
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