While many startups say they’re changing the world for the better, OmniBridge might actually succeed. Founded by a profoundly Deaf engineer, this Intel-supported venture is developing a sign language recognition and translation app that allows Deaf and hearing people to communicate in real-time.

Of all the technological hurdles OmniBridge must overcome, building a comprehensive database of ASL signs and gestures is perhaps the most difficult. That’s because it requires collecting data from thousands of native ASL signers. Laying the foundation for a national recruitment campaign, I worked with the team to develop a brand strategy, build a website, produce an explainer video, and launch a paid social media campaign. It was a Herculean effort that paid off in spades.