Category: Case Studies

The success of a program. The loss of a client. A grateful conclusion.

The Problem:

Zacks Small Cap Research (SCR) provides in-depth research reports on a diverse range of emerging companies seeking capital, spanning sectors like mining, crypto, biotech, medtech, technology, blockchain, and more. While their analysts produce comprehensive, bank-style reports offering valuable insights into each company’s mission, vision, and market opportunity, their existing marketing strategy presented a challenge. Zacks SCR relied heavily on an outdated email marketing system with a static template, limiting their ability to:

The Opportunity

While this limited approach, coupled with a minimal social media presence, hindered Zacks SCR’s ability to maximize, it provided a unique insight. Because the existing email program, while outdated, still generated consistent traffic, it allowed visibility into a real-time benchmark against which to measure the effectiveness of a new content marketing strategy. In many cases the old program is changed, or discontinued. Continuing the old program might have been seen to cause branding problems. Read on to see how this opened other doors. 

The Content Carnivores Solution:

Content Carnivores was engaged to revitalize Zacks SCR’s marketing efforts and amplify the reach of their research. Recognizing the value of the existing email program as a benchmark, Content Carnivores implemented a multi-faceted strategy that complemented and expanded upon the existing efforts. This included:

Analysis and Results:

The results were compelling: Content Carnivores’ content-driven strategy delivered a 280% increase in website traffic compared to the outdated email marketing approach. This underscored the power of their multi-faceted strategy in attracting and engaging a wider audience. 

By running the existing email program concurrently with the Content Carnivores strategy, Zacks SCR gained the ability to conduct a real-time, head-to-head comparison of the two approaches. This provided invaluable data on the effectiveness of each strategy in driving website traffic and engaging potential investors.

When the CEO decided that the overall program was not impacting the companies covered with regards to increasing their share price, the program was paused. (Note: Content Carnivores programs are targeted to reach investors but never to solicit or encourage stock purchases or to impact the share price. That would be stock promotion. It’s illegal. We’re happy to get fired when the ‘ask’ has even the whiff of that kind of behavior.) 

The impact of pausing the Content Carnivores program further validated its effectiveness. Thanks!

After three years of build up the website traffic, engagement and demographics of the audience, the pause caused significant declines:

We are extremely grateful to have these stats.

In effect we have data from before the program, during the program, and then after the program was suspended. These findings emphasized the crucial role of consistent and engaging content marketing in driving website traffic, maintaining online presence, and reaching target audiences.

It’s Just Marketing, right?

The Zacks SCR case study exemplifies the transformative power of a dynamic and comprehensive content marketing strategy in driving investor engagement and amplifying the reach of valuable research. By leveraging content repurposing, multi-platform distribution, and targeted outreach, Content Carnivores enabled Zacks SCR to connect with a wider audience, maximize the impact of their research, and achieve measurable results. In the end, the ability to conduct a real-time comparison of before, after, and after, provides invaluable insights and further validated the effectiveness of the Content Carnivores approach.

How a VC Firm Provided Their Portfolio Companies With More Than Funding

For an entrepreneur, landing that Series A funding round is like reaching the summit of Everest. But what happens after the champagne toasts and the press releases fade? How does the company keep their story alive? That’s where the real climb begins, and for VCapital, a Chicago-based venture capital firm specializing in early-stage tech, biotech, and diagnostics companies, they knew they needed more than just a sherpa – they needed a guide.

VCapital, with its impressive track record of billion-dollar exits and a keen eye for “visionary” investments, had a challenge. Although it was a master of due diligence and deal-making, its brand presence was quiet, almost hidden. It needed a way to amplify its voice, attract investors to its growing fund, and showcase the groundbreaking work of its portfolio companies. Enter Content Carnivores.

Content Carnivores didn’t just offer VCapital a marketing plan; they provided a comprehensive content ecosystem. Think of it as a toolkit for the modern VC firm, packed with strategies to build a powerful brand and engage a targeted audience.

The Spearhead: Content that Cuts Through the Noise

Imagine explaining the intricacies of gene editing or the latest breakthrough in cancer diagnostics to a potential investor who’s more familiar with balance sheets than biopsies. Content Carnivores crafted a “spear content” strategy, translating complex science into compelling narratives that resonated with a wider audience. They didn’t dumb it down; they made it accessible, highlighting the human impact of these innovations.

The Megaphone: Amplifying Thought Leadership

VCapital’s CEO wasn’t just a seasoned investor but a thought leader with a book on the horizon and a growing media presence. Content Carnivores seized this opportunity, transforming him into the face of VCapital. They leveraged his insights and appearances to build credibility and position VCapital as an industry pioneer.

The Network: Building a Community of Investors

Forget cold calls and generic email blasts. Content Carnivores built a thriving online community around VCapital. They strategically grew their presence on Twitter and LinkedIn, connecting with a highly targeted audience of investors and advisors. It was like building a VIP room for the investment world, where VCapital’s message resonated with the right people.

The Stage: Showcasing Portfolio Companies

VCapital hosted leadership events, bringing together investors, industry experts, and their portfolio companies. Content Carnivores ensured these events weren’t just stuffy conferences but engaging experiences showcasing the potential of VCapital’s investments. Attendance surged, and valuable connections were forged.

The Results: Beyond the Numbers

While specific metrics remain confidential, the impact was undeniable. VCapital’s brand visibility skyrocketed, engagement with potential investors soared, and website traffic and inquiries multiplied. Most importantly, VCapital’s fund grew, attracting investors who were drawn not just to the financial returns but also to the firm’s vision and commitment to innovation.

Content Carnivores provided VCapital with more than just marketing support; they offered a strategic partnership that fueled their growth. They demonstrated that in the venture capital world, success requires more than just writing checks. It requires building a brand, fostering a community, and telling compelling stories. And that’s exactly what Content Carnivores delivered.

Imagine walking into a business with outdated decor, faded posters, and dusty furniture. What impression would you get? Probably not a great one. Your website is the digital face of your company, and just like a physical storefront, it needs a refresh every now and then. But how do you know when it’s time for a website redesign? And how much time, effort, and budget should you allocate?

Many businesses struggle with this decision. Sometimes a rebranding with a new logo and color palette makes it obvious. Other times, a major shift in the company’s direction necessitates a complete overhaul. But what about those times when you’re still offering the same products or services, but your website is starting to show its age?

The 7-Second Rule

Studies show you have just 7 seconds to make a first impression online. Is your website making the most of those precious seconds? An outdated website can convey a lack of innovation, damage your brand image, and even cost you customers. Think about it: if your website looks like it’s from 2015, visitors might assume your business practices are just as outdated.

Signs Your Website Needs a Facelift:

The Website as a Dynamic Tool:

Your website is more than just an online brochure. It’s a dynamic tool that should evolve with your business and the ever-changing digital landscape. Here’s how we approach website revamps to ensure they are efficient and impactful:

Our Unique Process:

  1. Content Audit and Enhancement: We analyze your existing content, identify gaps, and incorporate new information to ensure it’s fresh, relevant, and engaging.
  2. Competitive Analysis: We research your industry and competitors to understand current trends and best practices in website design and messaging.
  3. Visual Refresh: We update your website’s look and feel with modern design elements, high-quality images, and intuitive navigation.
  4. SEO Optimization: We conduct keyword research and implement on-page optimization strategies to improve your website’s visibility in search results.
  5. User Experience Focus: We prioritize user experience (UX) by ensuring your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and accessible to all users.

The Benefits of a Website Revamp:

Investing in Your Online Presence

While a website revamp requires an investment of time and resources, it’s a crucial step in maintaining a strong online presence. A modern, engaging website can pay dividends in the form of increased brand awareness, customer loyalty, and ultimately, business growth.

Ready to give your website the refresh it deserves? Contact us for a free website assessment!

Utah’s Life Sciences industry is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by a unique spirit of collaboration. A new video, commissioned by key players like the Governor’s office, the Mayor’s office, state trade associations, university systems, and the financial community, captures the essence of this thriving ecosystem. This video aims to showcase how Utah fosters success in biotech, medtech, and pharma through collaborative partnerships.

The Challenge:

Contact Carnivores was tasked with crafting a narrative that not only highlighted this collaborative environment but also emphasized Utah’s unique strengths. The video needed to:

The Solution:

To achieve these goals, Contact Carnivores implemented a strategic approach:

Honesty, Integrity, and Uniqueness

In a world saturated with information, honesty, integrity, and uniqueness are paramount in video storytelling. This project prioritized authenticity, portraying the genuine collaborative spirit and the real people driving Utah’s life sciences success. By showcasing the unique aspects of Utah’s environment, lifestyle, and community support, the video stands out from generic promotional materials.

The Outcome:

The resulting video is a powerful testament to Utah’s collaborative approach and the thriving Life Sciences community. It will be used for:

Key Takeaways:

This project exemplifies the power of video to tell a compelling and authentic story. By combining strategic filming, diverse interviews, stunning visuals, and a commitment to honesty and uniqueness, Contact Carnivores successfully captured the essence of Utah’s Life Sciences ecosystem and its unique appeal. This video is poised to play a crucial role in driving future growth and success for the state’s life sciences industry.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated almost every industry, and drug discovery is no exception. The promises are tantalizing: faster development times, reduced costs, and potentially even the discovery of new drugs for previously untreatable diseases. But amidst the hype and excitement, crucial questions remain: Is AI drug discovery truly delivering on its promises? What are the challenges faced by companies in this space? And how are some companies, setting themselves apart?  

The Current State of AI Drug Discovery in the US

AI is making waves in the US drug discovery landscape. Several major pharmaceutical companies and biotech startups are actively using AI to streamline their drug discovery processes. Some examples include:  

While the exact number of AI-developed drugs on the market is limited, the potential is vast. Several AI-developed drugs are currently in various stages of clinical trials, raising hopes for breakthroughs in the near future.  

Public Perception and Challenges

The public perception of AI in drug discovery is largely positive, with many seeing it as a powerful tool for accelerating drug development and improving patient outcomes. However, there are also concerns. Some people worry about the potential for job losses in the pharmaceutical industry due to automation. Others raise concerns about the ethical implications of AI in medicine, particularly around issues of data privacy and bias.

Companies in the AI drug discovery space face several challenges:

Expert Insights

Experts in the field acknowledge both the potential and the challenges of AI in drug discovery. Here are some notable quotes:

Differentiating Through Data and Experience

In a crowded AI drug discovery landscape, Salt Lake City-based Moleculern is carving out a unique niche. Their strategy focuses on “developing drugs differently”, emphasizing their proprietary data library, extensive experience, and proven track record of success.

Moleculern’s founders bring a wealth of experience, having developed multiple drugs and founded successful companies in the pharmaceutical space. Their AI discovery platform is powered by a unique combination of wet lab data and other assets, allowing them to significantly reduce drug development time. Their focus on “differently” extends beyond speed, encompassing the quality and potential of the compounds they develop.

Their revamped website, launched in July 2024, reflects this focus. It’s a streamlined, user-friendly platform that tells a clear story about their approach. They acknowledge the sobering statistic that only one in 10,000 drugs reaches FDA clearance, and their mission is to improve those odds.

The Future of AI Drug Discovery

AI drug discovery is undoubtedly a rapidly evolving field. While challenges remain, the potential benefits are enormous. Companies like Recursion, with their unique data-driven approach and focus on quality, stand poised to make significant contributions to the future of medicine. It’s not simply about developing drugs faster; it’s about developing them differently, with a greater chance of success and ultimately improving patient outcomes. The AI drug discovery gold rush is here, and it’s not just hype – it’s a real opportunity to revolutionize the way we develop medicines.

In the ever-evolving world of biotech, staying afloat requires more than just groundbreaking science. It demands resilience, adaptability, and a knack for storytelling. This is the story of GeoVax ( $GOVX ), a company that emerged from the crucible of the AIDS crisis, weathered the storms of public opinion, and ultimately found its footing by embracing a consistent and strategic approach to communication.

Early Days and Reinvention: GeoVax emerged from Emory University during the AIDS crisis, armed with a promising technology platform that had the potential to revolutionize vaccine development. Early trials even hinted at a possible cure for AIDS. However, funding for AIDS research was scarce, and the company faced an uphill battle. Going public added to the pressure, and the politicized nature of the AIDS crisis further complicated their efforts. To survive, GeoVax needed to reinvent itself. They shifted focus to their versatile platform, which was based on the science behind the smallpox vaccine. Despite the potential, public interest in vaccines was low, and the anti-vaccination movement presented a significant challenge.

The Social Media Strategy: To navigate this challenging landscape, GeoVax partnered with Content Carnivores to develop a comprehensive communication strategy. They recognized the need to stay in the public eye and connect with retail investors who were uncertain about the company’s future. The strategy centered around creating a series of engaging social media posts and LinkedIn presentations. These posts featured original images that showcased the science behind their platform and highlighted its potential applications. They also leveraged company press releases and actively engaged with affinity groups affected by various diseases.

Riding the Waves of Public Interest: GeoVax cleverly linked their content to disease outbreaks that captured public attention. When the Zika virus threatened pregnancies in South America, they were there to discuss their platform’s potential for developing a vaccine. Similarly, they addressed concerns about Ebola in Sudan and the ongoing fight against malaria. This strategy allowed them to demonstrate the broad applicability of their technology. The turning point came with the COVID-19 pandemic. GeoVax was perfectly positioned to contribute to the global fight against the virus. They actively pursued government grants and continued to refine their technology. While mRNA vaccines took center stage, GeoVax remained persistent, sharing their progress and engaging with investors on social media and LinkedIn.

Building Momentum and Trust: GeoVax’s efforts started to pay off. They secured tens of millions of dollars in funding from investors who had been following their journey. The company successfully uplisted to NASDAQ from the OTC market, fueled by the renewed interest in their work during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move further boosted their credibility and allowed them to generate even more compelling content, showcasing the growing interest and investment in their technology. With increased funding, they advanced their clinical trials, generating proof of concept and expanding to multiple trial sites. This provided a continuous stream of positive news to share with investors and further solidified their position in the biotech industry.

The Payoff: GeoVax’s perseverance ultimately led to a major breakthrough. After countless grant applications and networking efforts, they were awarded a $350 million BARDA grant to pursue next-generation COVID-19 vaccines. Their consistent online presence also allowed them to capitalize on the monkeypox outbreak, raising additional capital as their vaccine showed promise. All of these successes were built on a foundation of consistent communication, strategic opportunism, and a commitment to staying engaged with their audience.

Key Takeaways:

Social Media is a Powerful Tool: Use it to tell your story, connect with investors, and build brand awareness.

The anti-obesity drug market is booming. Big Pharma companies like Eli Lilly & Co (LLY) and Novo Nordisk (NVO) are racing to develop and acquire products that target the GLP-1 receptor system, the key mechanism behind blockbuster drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. With Goldman Sachs forecasting the market to reach a staggering $100 billion by 2030, the competition is fierce. But amidst these giants, a small Utah-based company called Biolexis is poised to disrupt the landscape with a fresh perspective and a promising pipeline of “metabolic longevity” products.

Shedding Old Skin: A Website as a Catalyst for Change

Biolexis, despite its strong scientific foundation and innovative approach, initially struggled to communicate its unique vision. Their website, a relic of past ventures, lumped them in with countless other companies vying for attention in the crowded biotech space. It was a confusing mix of information about oncology, longevity, metabolic products, and AI drug discovery – a digital hodgepodge that failed to convey a clear message or differentiate Biolexis from the competition.

This lack of clarity hindered their ability to attract investors and partners, crucial for a small company looking to make a big splash in a rapidly growing market. They needed a way to stand out, to tell their story effectively, and to establish themselves as a serious contender.

Content Carnivores to the Rescue: A Digital Transformation

Enter Content Carnivores, a marketing agency with a proven track record of helping companies find their voice and connect with their audience. Recognizing the potential of Biolexis’s preclinical obesity drug and the urgency of the market opportunity, Content Carnivores embarked on a digital transformation.

They understood that in today’s digital age, a company’s website is often the first impression, a virtual storefront that can make or break a deal. As Forbes magazine puts it, “Without a clearly communicating website, people may question your legitimacy as a business. Having a website is an opportunity to make a great first impression and give people comfort that you’re a real business.”  

Content Carnivores stripped away the clutter and confusion, crafting a website that focused on the human aspect of longevity. They shifted the narrative from just weight loss to the broader concept of metabolic longevity, highlighting the interconnectedness of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even dementia. The new website presented a compelling story about Biolexis’s approach to health and aging, using human images combined with scientific visuals to create an emotional connection with visitors.

This strategic shift aligns with Biolexis’s development of multiple products that leverage GLP-1 but extend beyond simple weight loss. As their website explains, “Also in their metabolic pipeline is AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) which is emerging quickly as an additional target for obesity, as well as overall health, and longevity.” This broader approach positions Biolexis not just as a player in the anti-obesity market, but as a pioneer in the emerging field of metabolic longevity.

The GLP-1 Gold Rush: A Market Ripe for Disruption

The current market leaders, Lilly and Novo Nordisk, have seen explosive growth driven by their GLP-1 drugs. Novo Nordisk, for example, reported that GLP-1 drugs accounted for over 55% of its total revenue in 2023, with sales doubling to $18 billion. Lilly is experiencing similar success with tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound.

But Biolexis believes it has a key advantage: oral delivery.

The Advantages of Biolexis Begin with Delivery

Biolexis has a GLP-1 agonist in preclinical studies that management believes could be best-in-class. There are two key differentiators of the Biolexis drug. First, Biolexis’ drug is an oral small molecule, whereas drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide are peptides given via a subcutaneous injection. And second, unlike most GLP-1 agonists, Biolexis has a unique chemical structure from the majority of other oral small molecule agonists in development.

This is a crucial differentiator in a market dominated by injectable medications. By offering an oral alternative, Biolexis can potentially capture a significant share of the market by appealing to patients seeking convenience and ease of use.

On the website, showing a pill an underscoring this difference is a simple but critical difference between the old site and the new site. Many such clarifications were executed to make the company stand out on its strengths.

Beyond the Pill: A Vision for the Future

Biolexis’s commitment to innovation and its focus on metabolic longevity position the company as a potential leader in this rapidly evolving field. By combining cutting-edge science with a human-centered approach, Biolexis is poised to not only compete with the big players but also to redefine the future of metabolic health. And with a website that clearly communicates its vision and values, Biolexis is well-equipped to attract the attention and investment needed to achieve its ambitious goals.