Screenshot 2025-08-16 at 4.19.49 PM.png
98 Forward is Michigan’s first Black-owned public relations and communications firm.

Driven by Strategy. Grounded in Culture. Moving the Narrative Forward.

We elevate diverse voices and strengthen communities through intentional PR strategies.

Where Legacy Meets Momentum

For nearly 30 years, 98Forward has helped leaders and companies step into the moment that defines their legacy. We’re trusted by changemakers in government, business, philanthropy, and culture.

Based in Detroit, our communications firm partners with clients to create lasting impact
98 Forward amplifies advocacy campaigns that drive progress and equity.
Black and white CNN logo with the letters 'CNN' interlinked.
We specialize in public relations for nonprofits, advocacy groups, and civic leaders.
With roots in Detroit, we help local voices reach national platforms.
Our PR firm blends creativity with strategy to deliver results that matter.
Our team partners with clients who are committed to social justice and progress.
Black and white illustration of a person with a speech bubble above their head, seemingly talking.
We believe communications should always reflect values, culture, and community.
Black kitten curled up sleeping on a gray blanket.
A large group of children and adults gathered in a room, some sitting on the floor, watching a performance or presentation with colorful balloons hanging from the ceiling.
Our communications strategies are designed to inspire action and build trust.
As Detroit’s leading Black-owned PR firm, we know how to shape the conversation.

Our Approach

The Forward Principle

PHASE 1

Define The Moment

Own your story

Clarify your vision
Build your identity

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.

PHASE 2

Lead The Narrative

You Become Seen

Be the headline
Lead with conviction
Show up with presence

A stylized logo consisting of a black square with a light blue arrow and corner design.

PHASE 3

Sustain The Trust

Maintain momentum
Lead in crisis
Master your legacy

Black call-to-action button with rounded edges, arrow pointing upward, and white text that says 'WORK WITH US' inside a light blue border.

Legacy In Action

Solid teal background
A woman in a red dress smiling and waving with both hands at a crowded indoor event.
The text '98ForWarc' in large bold letters, with the arrows pointing up and right incorporated into the design, on a black background.

Justice Kyra Harris Bolden

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.
Text logo reading '98F orwz' with an upward arrow next to the letter 'w'.

BGCSM New York Fashion Week

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.
Logo of 98 For Waco with stylized text and arrow

Sean Anderson Foundation D.O.N. Weekend

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.
Woman speaking at a podium surrounded by supporters holding signs that read 'Mary Sheffield for Mayor' at a campaign event.
Colorful logo of 98 Rock Orlando, a radio station.

Council President Mary Sheffield

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.
Colorful logo of 98 Rock Orlando, a radio station.

SMART BUS

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.
Colorful logo of 98 Rock Orlando, a radio station.

USHER's New Look x Boys & Girls Clubs

Stylized logo with a diagonal line crossing through a square and arrow, in teal and black.

MOVING FORWARD SINCE ‘98
Black button with blue outline and arrow, displaying the text 'WORK WITH US' in white.

What We Do Best

Strategic Communications Rooted in Community and Culture.

Public & Media Relations

Abstract geometric design with black background and blue shapes forming a stylized arrow or checkmark.

Creative & Digital Marketing

Crisis Communications

A logo featuring a large black arrow pointing to the left, with a purple stylized S shape to its right, on a dark background.
A geometric design with black, purple, and dark blue shapes forming a stylized arrow within an angular pattern.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

A stylized logo with a black background and teal geometric shapes forming an upward arrow and the letter 'A'.

Executive & Organizational Positioning

A geometric abstract design with purple, black, and blue shapes forming a stylized arrow pointing to the right.

Social Media

Stylized black and turquoise arrow logo with geometric shapes and bold lines.

Brand Identity Development 

An abstract geometric design with purple and black shapes forming a stylized letter 'Z' or arrow pointing left.

Visual Storytelling

Abstract geometric design with black background and turquoise triangle and arrow shapes.

“ This isn’t media support. This is legacy architecture.“

Solid turquoise background
Text that says '9to5Mac' in a stylized font with a small upward arrow incorporated into the letter 'r'

“ We are the strategy behind movements that matter. ”

Black button with blue outline and arrow, displaying the text 'WORK WITH US' in white.