About

Design that advances your mission — and respects your reality.
For over 40 years, Alexander Atkins Design (AAD) has partnered with nonprofits, universities, schools, foundations, and fundraisers to create design that inspires action — from annual reports and appeals to full branded campaigns.

But here’s what truly sets us apart: we believe great design should serve the mission first — and be accessible to the organizations doing that work. That’s why every project we take on is structured with flexibility, intention, and a commitment to giving back.

You're under pressure to do more with less. We understand that.
If you’re a development or marketing leader, you’re balancing ambitious fundraising goals, multiple stakeholders, limited time and resources. You need design that works and a partner who listens. That’s where we come in.

High-level work. Thoughtfully scaled.
Yes, we’ve worked with major institutions like Stanford and UC Berkeley, along with prominent national nonprofit organizations. But many of our most meaningful partnerships are with smaller teams and organizations who initially thought, “We probably can’t afford this.” In most cases, they could. We shape every project around your goals, timeline, and resources — often arriving at a clear direction and budget in a single conversation.

A philanthropic design model.
AAD is built on a simple idea: every project should give something back. We dedicate a portion of our services to support the mission behind the work — whether that means expanded creative, added strategy, or simply going further than expected. So when you work with us, you’re not just hiring a graphic designer. You’re gaining a partner who is invested in your impact.

What we create
Annual reports
Fundraising letters and brochures
Campaign collateral
Branding and identity systems
Newsletters, magazines, and books
Websites and social media banners
Advertisements
Presentations and exhibits

Fast timelines are often possible with initial concepts for smaller projects in as little as 1–2 days.

Let’s start with a conversation
You don’t need a fully defined project. You don’t need a fixed budget. If you’re exploring ideas, facing a challenge, or simply wondering what’s possible — let’s talk. In 15 minutes, we can usually help clarify direction, scope, and next steps, even if we don’t end up working together.

A partner rooted in education and community
Founder Alexander Atkins has spent decades supporting education — as a designer, mentor, teacher, and co-founder of one of California's top-rated charter schools. He has authored two books that encourage critical thinking and a commitment to lifelong learning. That dedication continues to shape every project we take on.

How can we help?
Tell us a little about what you’re working on — or what you’re trying to solve. We’ll meet you there.