Design agency proposal: Free template

Customize this free design agency proposal with Cobrief
Open this free design agency proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your design services, the client’s needs, and project scope. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.
Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.
This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for pitching brand identity design, UX/UI design, marketing collateral, or ongoing creative support. Whether you're a full-service design agency or a specialized studio, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is a design agency proposal?
A design agency proposal outlines how your team will deliver visual and creative assets to help a client communicate, engage, or differentiate. It typically includes project goals, deliverables, timeline, creative approach, and pricing.
This proposal shows prospective clients what you’ll design, how you’ll work, and how the finished product will support their business objectives.
A strong design proposal helps you:
- Define visual deliverables and creative milestones clearly.
- Communicate your process and timelines.
- Showcase your expertise and portfolio strength.
- Build trust and move the client toward action.
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
Cobrief helps you turn great creative ideas into clear, professional proposals — fast.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: Skip file setup and start customizing right away.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Clarify your process, sharpen messaging, or adjust tone instantly.
- Run a one-click AI review: Spot unclear areas and improve structure with one click.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Accept individual edits or apply all at once.
- Share or export instantly: Send via Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX file.
Deliver polished proposals that reflect your design quality — without wasting time on formatting.
When to use this proposal
Use this design agency proposal for:
- Branding and logo design projects.
- UI/UX or website design.
- Packaging and print collateral.
- Ad creative and social media visuals.
- Retainer-based or project-based design support.
It works across industries — from startups and SaaS to retail, e-commerce, and nonprofits.
What to include in a design agency proposal
Each section helps the client understand your design process, what you’ll deliver, and how you’ll collaborate:
- Executive summary: Frame the client’s visual goals and how your design work will help them attract, engage, or convert their target audience.
- Scope of work: List what’s included — e.g., logo design, brand guidelines, web layouts, mobile screens, print materials, social graphics. Include number of concepts, revision rounds, and final file formats.
- Creative process: Explain your phases — discovery, inspiration gathering, wireframes, design concepts, revisions, and final delivery.
- Timeline: Break the project into stages with estimated delivery windows for each milestone. Be realistic and factor in review time.
- Pricing: Present your fees — flat-rate per project, per phase, or ongoing retainer. Clearly define what’s included and any optional add-ons (e.g., animation, development, templates).
- Terms and conditions: Cover IP ownership, client responsibilities (e.g., timely feedback), payment schedule, and revision policy.
- Next steps: End with a clear CTA — such as “Reply to confirm,” “Schedule a kickoff call,” or “Sign to begin the project.”
How to write an effective design agency proposal
This proposal should feel clean, client-focused, and visually aligned with your expertise:
- Lead with client value: Emphasize what your design work will help them achieve
- Show process clarity: Clients want to know how work will progress from idea to delivery
- Be precise on deliverables: Avoid surprises — clarify file types, revision limits, and formats
- Use plain-smart language: Avoid jargon while still sounding like a professional creative partner
- Format cleanly: Bullet points, short paragraphs, and structured headings help busy readers
- Include a simple action step: Make it easy for the client to approve and move forward
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I reuse this proposal for different types of design work?
Yes — just tailor the scope and tone to match the type of deliverables (e.g., branding vs. product design).
Should I include a link to a portfolio or past client work?
Absolutely — visuals build trust and demonstrate capability.
Can this work for retainers and one-off projects?
Yes — you can present both options or tailor the pricing section accordingly.
Is this proposal legally binding?
No — this is a proposal. Attach or link a formal service agreement if required.
Can I export this proposal as a PDF or DOCX file?
Yes — after customizing, you can instantly download it in either format.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.