Your DECA chapter or association’s brand is more than just a logo or tagline - it’s the story you tell, the experiences you create, and the impact you showcase.
A strong brand not only attracts new members but also energizes current ones, engages partners, and positions your chapter or association as a leader in preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.
Here are four strategies your chapter or association can use to elevate its brand this year:
1. Tell Impactful Stories with Student Voices
Nothing brings DECA’s mission to life more than the stories of its members. Highlighting real experiences creates emotional connections that inspire others to get involved.
- Share video testimonials from students and alumni about their DECA journey.
- Launch a chapter or association hashtag and encourage chapters and members to use it when posting their own experiences.
- Spotlight competition wins, service projects, and leadership milestones in newsletters and on social media.
We love this member spotlight example from Tennessee DECA!
2. Leverage Strategic Partnerships for Visibility
Partnerships with industry leaders, colleges, and businesses not only provide opportunities for members but also strengthen your brand’s credibility.
- Promote co-brand content from DECA that showcases partner challenges, competitive events and sponsorships.
- Highlight industry and education partners in marketing materials and events.
- Invite professionals to share insights at conferences or in member spotlights.
This partnership between Washington DECA and the Seattle Finance Collective is an awesome example of how to highlight your partnerships!
3. Strengthen Visual Identity Across All Platforms
A consistent, polished look reinforces professionalism and makes your association instantly recognizable.
- Utilize DECA Brand Resource Center for professional logos, templates, design assets and other marketing materials.
- Strive for high-quality images or videos over text-heavy graphics.
- Audit your website, social media, and event materials for consistency.
We love how Massachusetts DECA’s website and social media sites all feature the same color palette and theme.
4. Be Present Where Your Audience Is
Today’s students spend much of their time on social media, so make sure DECA shows up in their feeds.
- Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts to share fun, engaging content.
- Video has 2x the engagement on Instagram and Facebook, and 50% higher reach on TikTok and Reels!
- Align posts with the school calendar and DECA milestones (competitions, conferences, deadlines).
- Experiment with trends, reels, and behind-the-scenes content to keep DECA relevant and relatable.
This Arizona DECA TikTok is a fun and engaging way to share a conference countdown!
By focusing on storytelling, partnerships, design, digital presence, and career readiness, your DECA chapter or association can elevate its brand and create a lasting impression on students, educators, and industry leaders.
Now is the time to Go The Extra with your chapter or association brand and showcase DECA's incredible impact on preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.
