Clever Looks to Grow in Second Year in Business

YOUNGSTOWN — In late Summer 2020, Clever, a branding, marketing and digital agency serving clients throughout the region, was founded by three Mahoning Valley creatives.

The experienced team includes Whitney Burd, Tony Marr and Adrienne Sabo.

“After a combined 30 years in the industry, we realized there wasn’t an agency that focused on the art in commercial arts just as much as the commercial,” said Tony Marr, founder and business development manager.

In its first few months in business, Clever saw a large demand for digital marketing with the development of websites for local businesses including Bake Me Treats, Oh Donut Company and Macchione Richardson and Wagner Insurance.

“We strive to develop sites with strong visuals, an enhanced user experience and most importantly engaging design,” said founder and graphic designer Whitney Burd.

The past year also saw Clever named the Agency of Record for Alta Care Group.

As part of its work with Alta, Clever developed the marketing for the Mental Health is Vital Campaign, a multifaceted public awareness campaign aimed at addressing the stigma around mental health through digital, outdoor, social media and communication tactics.

“Mental Health is Vital is a cause we immediately took to heart and believe the work we’ve created truly shows that,” said Adrienne Sabo, founder and creative director.

Additionally, Clever began working with Penn-Northwest Development Corporation, the lead economic development agency in Mercer County, to bring a fresh perspective to its marketing and messaging.

Under new leadership, the organization has seen increased excitement and energy around its work and Clever is developing new creative content to reflect that.

As Clever’s client list continues to grow, so does its company. It hopes to hire for new positions in the very near future.