Catalyst By Beemok | Case Study by Colophon New Media

Web & Software Development

Catalyst By Beemok

Prominent Charleston-based conglomerate Beemok recently launched an exciting new initiative, Catalyst. The purpose of this project is to fuel early-stage companies in the Tri-county area via a business pitch competition – think Shark Tank for South Carolina businesses. Beemok tapped trusted marketing partner Colophon New Media, which worked with local marketing experts truematter to launch the slick new website for this initiative, which is now live at https://catalystbybeemok.com/. Founders in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester Counties can use this site to submit overviews of their ventures. The deadline for submissions was September 30 (so if you’re reading this after the fact, make sure to bookmark next year’s cohort!). At the live event on November 8, Catalyst by Beemok awarded $1 million to the winning businesses. Along with their partners, the value was well over that number awarded to Lowcountry entrepreneurs.

What was the main challenge in this project?

The goal was to set up a sleek website with cutting-edge design, crisp animation, and an overall tech-forward vibe. With a hand from truematter, Colophon produced just that. It was also crucial that the site laid all the information that Beemok needed to spread the word about this tremendous opportunity for South Carolina businesses.

What was your solution or approach?

The emphasis throughout the project was on making this an easy-to-navigate, mobile-friendly website with a sharp look. One key to this was smoothly integrating multiple dynamic forms, which give the site a seamless UX that facilitates the application process. Thanks to an automated MailChimp workflow, we were able to make the submission forms feel like a natural part of this site.

What was the outcome or impact for the client?

Did we mention that we love how this site turned out? As always, checking it out for yourself is the best way to appreciate a great web design project. We love the simplicity of the homepage and how easy it is to not only find all the information you need, but also take action via the smoothly integrated dynamic forms. Working on high-impact projects like this is always a pleasure and a point of pride for Colophon, and we can’t overstate what a great opportunity this is for startups in the Charleston area. The November 8, 2025 event was incredible, showcasing the amazing finalists and the inaugural Catalyst cohort was selected “Shark Tank” style in front of a live audience at the Terminal Building at Union Pier. While the 2025 cohort has passed, get ready for next year’s (and hopefully, many year after that!).