SHARING OUR STORY

The way we share our story can make all the difference…

Owatonna is reaching the end of year one in a research-driven, community-wide identity initiative. This effort will help Owatonna stand out in the marketplace as we grow toward our preferred future. Our goal is to increase interest and investment in our community from residents, entrepreneurs, companies and visitors. At the end of this first year, we have developed a brand that will allow us to continue sharing our story with a unified voice. This page will continue to be updated as we enter into year two of this initiative where we begin implementing our brand story.

Submit your Name, Email Address and Phone Number to access the brand files and guidelines, so you can start using Owatonna’s Community Wide Brand with your business or organization.

Working together for a unified voice

  • THE WHY

    Why has the Community of Owatonna developed a new brand?

    As we look toward the growth and prosperity of our community, our brand was developed to equip all entities and our citizens as we communicate and grow through municipal activities, event recruitment, culture, assets, and amenities.

    In a collaborative effort between local businesses, the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce, the City of Owatonna, Owatonna Partners for Economic Development, Main Street Owatonna, and Visit Owatonna, a unified approach has been taken to develop a brand in order to share our DNA.

    Owatonna is our home, and this is our unique story.

    Frequently Asked Questions

  • THE PROCESS

    Our brand process began with examining the community of Owatonna through resident surveys, focus groups, one-on-one interviews, and feedback from outside community. This part of the process revealed valuable information and key insights to move forward in the strategic development of a refreshed brand. We gradually pieced together a design that captures the unique ideas and imagery representing Owatonna as a community.

    The process included the following steps:

    Step 1: Stakeholder, Resident, & Community Education

    Step 2: Insight Gathering & Research

    Step 3: DNA & Strategy Formation

    Step 4: Creative Brand & Message Development

    Step 5: Brand in Action

    Full Research Presentation

  • THE OUTCOME

    The brand developed will be a long-term tool to help us reach our preferred future.

    As we compete for growth, our brand and story will be used to communicate to those around us that we are united and a community that goes the extra mile in all we do.

    Our community entities are equipped with a unified brand to use for promotional, educational, and informational purposes. Updating and implementing our brand will take place over time, and will occur as existing materials, signage, and equipment need replacing..

    The unfied brand will help our community be more visible and recognizable due to the brand’s application on vehicles, apparel, and other city infrastructure as needed. Any brochures, social media, and marketing materials will use the new design to stand out amongst other competing cities to show what makes Owatonna special compared to other cities in the region.

    The Brand Image, The Partners & The Rationale

THE ACTION