98Forward
98Forward is a public relations agency based in Detroit (founded 1998).
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About 98Forward
98Forward was founded in 1998 by Georgella Muirhead and Bob Berg in Detroit, United States, at a time when the city was navigating significant economic and social transitions. The agency was established with a clear purpose: to provide strategic communications counsel that could help organizations and leaders tell their stories authentically and effectively. Now led by Marilyn Horn, 98Forward has grown into Michigan's largest Black-owned, women-led full-service public relations and marketing agency, operating from its headquarters at 4219 Woodward Ave in Midtown Detroit. The agency's nearly three decades of experience in the city have given it a deep understanding of both local dynamics and broader communications challenges.
Current Focus and Philosophy
98Forward operates under a methodology called the Forward Principle, which structures its work into three phases: Define The Moment, Lead The Narrative, and Sustain The Trust. This approach reflects the agency's emphasis on strategic thinking over tactical execution alone. Rather than simply issuing press releases or managing social media accounts, 98Forward focuses on helping clients understand the context of their communications challenges, craft messages that resonate with key audiences, and build lasting credibility. The agency's team of 11-50 professionals brings together expertise in public relations, marketing, community engagement, and crisis management, allowing them to offer integrated solutions that address both immediate communications needs and long-term reputation goals.
Services and Specialties
98Forward's service offerings span the full spectrum of public relations and communications. The agency is particularly known for its work in crisis management and crisis communications, where it helps organizations navigate sensitive situations and protect their reputations. Community relations is another core strength, reflecting the agency's roots in Detroit and its commitment to building bridges between organizations and the communities they serve. 98Forward also provides media & spokesperson training, public affairs consulting, and executive positioning services that help leaders communicate more effectively. The agency's capabilities include:
- Campaign development and social media campaigns
- Media relations and public relations & communications services
- Crisis communications and issue advocacy
- Community relations strategies and stakeholder analysis
- Event management and event planning and execution
- Content creation and brand identity development
- Public policy and cultural diversity communication
- B2B communications and nonprofit communications
Who Benefits from 98Forward
98Forward is well-suited for organizations that need more than just publicity—they need strategic communications counsel that aligns with their mission and values. The agency has built strong relationships with clients in government, business, and philanthropy, and its experience includes work with education organizations and nonprofits. Organizations facing complex communications challenges, such as those involving public policy debates, community opposition, or reputation crises, will find particular value in 98Forward's structured approach. The agency also serves as a strong partner for businesses and institutions looking to strengthen their ties to the Detroit community, given its deep local roots and understanding of the city's unique dynamics. For leaders who want to improve their own communications effectiveness, 98Forward's executive positioning and media training services offer practical, results-oriented support. As a Detroit PR agency with nearly 30 years of experience, 98Forward is particularly suited for clients who value diversity in their agency partnerships and who seek a team that brings both strategic rigor and authentic community connections to every engagement.
Key facts
- Team size: 1-10 employees
- Headquarters: 4219 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan, United States, 48201-1121
- Address: 4219 Woodward Ave , Detroit Michigan United States 48201-1121
- SIC codes: 8742
Keywords & focus
Topics and areas 98Forward works with.
- campaigns
- marketing
- community relations
- crisis management
- positioning
- public affairs
- media & spokesperson training
- crisis communications
- social media
- event management
- media relations
- public relations & communications services
- issue advocacy
- campaign development
- social media campaigns
- community relations strategies
- public policy
- cultural diversity communication
- content creation
- nonprofit
- public affairs consulting
- detroit community
- stakeholder analysis
- education
- event planning and execution
- public relations agencies
- b2b
- executive positioning
- public relations for government
- detroit pr agency
- +43 more
Technologies
Outlook, Mobile Friendly, Google Tag Manager, Google Maps, Google Maps (Non Paid Users), Google Font API, Gravity Forms, Squarespace ECommerce, WordPress.org, Remote
Industries served by 98Forward
98Forward works with clients across 1 sectors. Whether you are a startup or an enterprise, they can support your PR and communications goals.
- public relations & communications
Other PR agencies in Detroit
If you are looking for alternatives or more options in Detroit, here are other public relations agencies in the same city you can compare.
Frequently asked questions about 98Forward
Common questions and answers about 98Forward, their services, location, and how to work with them.
- Where is 98Forward located?
- 98Forward is headquartered in Detroit.
- What services does 98Forward offer?
- 98Forward offers media relations, communications strategy, and public relations. They help brands with public relations, media outreach, and strategic communications.
- What industries does 98Forward serve?
- 98Forward serves clients in public relations & communications. They work with startups, scale-ups, and enterprises across these sectors.
- Is 98Forward a verified PR agency?
- 98Forward is listed on Online PR. Verification status is shown on their profile.
- How can I contact 98Forward?
- You can visit their website at http://www.98forward.com
- How many reviews does 98Forward have?
- 98Forward has 0 client reviews with an average rating of 0.0 out of 5.
- When was 98Forward founded?
- 98Forward was founded in 1998.
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