Ion is a team of branding experts that collaborates with cities, communities and destinations to help realize their full potential through stakeholder engagement, brand strategy, design and tactical implementation. Formed in 1988 by David Coates, Ion has become one of Canada’s best known graphic design firms. Ion has earned hundreds of awards and been published in many internationally recognized design publications. The company’s 36 year track record is a testament to successful collaboration with clients and their stakeholders – some of who have been with the firm for decades. Ion remains a boutique firm by choice, believing that high level, personal client service is best provided by a focussed firm. One whose principals are actively involved at all levels of the company’s activities. Ion was the first graphic design firm in Canada to offer website design. In the ‘90s they developed their own website CMS software called Smallbox. This dynamic company has since been incorporated and now operates independently from Ion, although the firms often collaborate on projects. This exceptional software is used by cities, municipalities and other public and private sector organizations around the world. Believing in strong communities, David has served as National President of the Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (now Design Professionals of Canada) and made large contributions to both Canadian and international design communities. David has also served on other design and community executive boards while donating his time and design skills. Over the past decade, the firm has donated over $250,000 in fees to the community through its One Good Idea Sustainability Award. The award is granted to the organization with the best sustainability concept or business.