JigSaw Marketing began in 2002 as a one-woman operation. Founder Kathy Walsh saw an opportunity in Baltimore's growing startup community. Her Bel Air based company has found success by working with startups and small business clients while growing into a firm that could handle larger operations.
"While working for a larger agency, I felt frustrated that our high hourly rates put our services out of range for many startups and smaller, local businesses -- ironically the people who most need marketing assistance. By opening my own firm with less overhead, I was able to set more affordable rates and have the discretion to further discount fees with the theory that earning a loyal client during the startup phase would pay off in spades as that business grew," Walsh says.
JigSaw Marketing has found success in marketing architects, contractors, and other businesses in the design and building industry. JigSaw also works with Moscow software manufacturer Acronis Inc., Cecil College's Department of Career and Community Education, Gaithersburg biotech startup Noble Life Sciences, Baltimore-based architects Urban Design Group, the Harford Land Trust, and White Marsh accounting and financial services firm WeberMessick.
"I think what sets JigSaw apart is the incredibly high level of responsiveness. One of our greatest strengths lies in our creativity. We try to conceptualize and implement marketing tactics that are thoughtful and stand out from the crowd," Walsh continues.
JigSaw was recently recognized for its work for Baltimore firm Floura Teeter Landscape Architects with a Marketing Excellence award from the Baltimore chapter of the American Marketing Association. That campaign also received a Mayor's Business Recognition Award from Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.
JigSaw Marketing has grown its staff to match its client list. The growing firm is planning to continue adding staff, including an additional account manager, in the next year.
Writer: Amy McNeal
Source: Kathy Walsh & Jessica Dixon Bieber, JigSaw Marketing Solutions