Multiplying Impact

GOAL // Multiply the impact of on-the-ground organizations

Liquid I.V., a drink mix that multiplies hydration, had recently been acquired by Unilever. With a legacy of product donations, it wanted to continue to be a mission-oriented brand but think bigger. In partnership with Grace Kim Consulting, OCTO developed a signature social impact program that perfectly embodies the brand's purpose, takes a humble and trust-based approach to grantmaking, and multiplies the impact of grassroots nonprofits. It also would excite the brand's fanbase and engage proud employees. 

APPROACH // Building trust through facilitated workshops, expert knowledge, and extensive research 

In parallel with an evolving brand purpose, we helped our clients understand best practices in social impact through extensive case studies and Subject Matter Expert deep dives with folks from Ben & Jerry's, NIKE, The North Face, Riot Games, and more.  These examples were important workshop stimulus to help internal teams dream big and make key decisions.   

Creative concepts showcased the possibilities of a few strategic territories and allowed our clients to really imagine how a program would live in the world. The greatest energy and excitement surrounded increasing access to clean water here in the United States. 

As a product that relies on water, Liquid I.V. could credibly focus on helping vulnerable populations access safe water for drinking and sanitation. And as a brand that multiplies hydration, the signature program could also multiply impact by supporting and cross-pollinating existing nonprofits instead of trying to reinvent the wheel. 

IMPACT // A bold approach to grantmaking, and an inclusive cohort of changemakers

Through extensive landscape research, we identified and evaluated 175+ nonprofits working for clean water in the U.S., and selected 12 diverse finalists to receive grants and join the first cohort. We lowered barriers to entry by creating an easy and quick application and disbursing unrestricted grants. Each grantee received an invitation to attend a highly curated retreat to allow these changemakers to share a vision, build connections, and collaborate for greater impact for those without clean water.

"Really appreciate all the work put into this... setting us up to continue our ambitious climb to be the best versions of ourselves."

- VP of Mission, Liquid I.V.