Storyland Studios, provider of story-based destination and experience design, announced it has been awarded a cooperative contract with the University of California (UC), in partnership with OMNIA Partners, the cooperative purchasing organization for public sector procurement.
This strategic agreement enables Storyland to bring its philosophy of narrative-driven placemaking to the University of California system and to public agencies nationwide through the OMNIA Partners cooperative contract. The scope extends beyond digital marketing to encompass holistic destination development and placemaking, using immersive storytelling to enhance education, navigation, and community engagement.
“This partnership signifies a powerful alignment of vision,” said Shawn Stewart, VP of Strategic Storytelling at Storyland Studios. “We believe every campus, every public space, has a story to tell. Our mission is to use immersive design not merely as a tool, but as a language to deepen learning, create intuitive wayfinding, and foster a profound sense of place. We are moving beyond information delivery to creating emotional connection.”
The comprehensive agreement covers a wide range of creative services, including:
- Immersive Digital Experiences: Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) solutions to bring educational content and campus histories to life.
- Destination Development & Placemaking: Theming, architectural storytelling, and environmental graphics that transform campuses and public facilities into cohesive, engaging narratives.
- Interactive Storytelling: Digital installations and interactive exhibits that turn complex information into compelling, accessible journeys.
- Wayfinding & Strategy: Intuitive navigation systems and master planning rooted in a clear, overarching story.
Joe Sibal, Director of Interactive Design at Storyland Studios, added, “For decades, we’ve used interactive storytelling to immerse guests in new worlds. Applying this expertise to an academic institution of the University of California’s calibre, renowned for its excellence and innovation, is a thrilling opportunity. We’re not just building websites or apps; we’re crafting digital ecosystems that add depth and dimension to the student and visitor experience.”
“The opportunity to work with OMNIA Partners is a significant milestone,” said Sean Featonby, Director of Business Development at Storyland Studios. “We are honored to join their network. This is more than a contract; it’s an invitation to support the mission of higher education and public organizations across the country. We are designing narrative-led experiences that have a positive, lasting impact, empowering students, staff, and visitors to become active participants in their community’s story.”
Through this partnership with OMNIA Partners, Storyland Studios is now a readily available resource for public agencies seeking to elevate their physical and digital environments through the power of story.