12 Years of Impact: Celebrating the Power and Impact of our Small Firm Community

Twelve years ago today, on December 12, 2012, a spark ignited a movement that would forever change how small firm architects approach their businesses. What began as an audacious idea—the “12/12/12 Project”—has grown into something I could never have imagined. EntreArchitect, the platform I launched that day, has become a thriving global community dedicated to helping small firm architects build better businesses to reach their full potential as architects and make the world a better place. Today, as we celebrate this milestone, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been, the values that guide us, and how a small idea grew into a global movement for small firm architects. But more importantly, I want to challenge each of you to dream big, take action, and join us in shaping the next chapter of this journey.

A Community Built on Connection and Growth

EntreArchitect started with a simple blog post and a podcast episode announcing my impossible dream—to create a platform that would provide information, resources, and training for small firm architects like me. At the time, I was struggling with the challenges that many of you know all too well: feeling undervalued, overworked, and stressed about the future of my business. I realized I wasn’t alone, and I wanted to do something about it.

From that small beginning, EntreArchitect has grown into a vibrant, supportive community of architects from around the world. Together, we’ve shared ideas, solved problems, and supported each other through triumphs and setbacks. We’ve built businesses that reflect our values and create positive change for our clients and communities.

The numbers tell part of the story: thousands of architects contribute to the EntreArchitect Community, hundreds of members at EntreArchitect Network, millions of podcast downloads, and countless lives impacted. But the real story is the relationships, the connections, and the shared commitment to growth and excellence.

The Power of Our Core Values: Love, Learn, Share

At the heart of EntreArchitect are our core values: Love, Learn, and Share. These aren’t just words on a page; they are principles that guide everything we do.

• Love: Caring for others is the foundation of this community. It’s about showing empathy, offering support, and celebrating each other’s successes. Love reminds us that we are stronger together and that our work has the power to transform lives.
• Learn: Growth is impossible without learning. Through our podcasts, webinars, training sessions, and conversations, we’ve created a space where architects can expand their knowledge, sharpen their skills, and discover new possibilities.
• Share: Generosity is what makes this community special. Sharing ideas, experiences, and resources isn’t just a nice thing to do; it’s the engine of innovation and progress. When we share, we all grow.

These values have not only shaped the culture of EntreArchitect but have also driven its success. They remind us why we started and inspire us to keep going, even when the path is difficult.

The Impact We’ve Made

Over the past 12 years, EntreArchitect has had a profound impact on the profession of architecture. Together, we’ve:

• Empowered small firm architects to take control of their businesses, set clear goals, and achieve financial stability.
• Created a space where architects can learn not just about design but about marketing, operations, leadership, and all the skills needed to run a successful firm.
• Amplified the voices of small firm architects, ensuring that our contributions to the built environment are recognized and valued.
• Built a global network of peers who share a commitment to excellence and a passion for making the world a better place through architecture.

And this is just the beginning. Our work together has laid the foundation for an even greater impact in the years to come.

A Challenge for the Next 12 Years

As we celebrate this milestone, I want to leave you with a challenge—a call to action inspired by the spirit of the 12/12/12 Project:

1. Celebrate this community: Take a moment today to share your experience as a member of EntreArchitect. Post on social media, write a blog post, or simply tell a colleague what this community has meant to you. Let’s spread the word about the power of connection and collaboration.
2. Launch your own “12/12/12 Project”: It’s never too late. What’s your impossible dream? What’s the one thing you’ve always wanted to do but never thought was possible? Today is the day to start. Take the first step, no matter how small, and commit to making it a reality. Whether it’s a new business, a passion project, or a way to give back, your dream can make the world a better place.
3. Support our mission: EntreArchitect exists because you, the members, believe in our vision and support our work. If you’re not already a member, join the EntreArchitect Network today at entrearchitect.com. By becoming a member, you’re not just investing in your own growth; you’re helping us make an even bigger impact on the profession and the world in the next 12 years.

Looking Ahead

Twelve years ago, the idea of EntreArchitect felt like an impossible dream. Today, it’s a testament to the power of vision, action, and community. As I reflect on this journey, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you who has been part of it. Your passion, generosity, and commitment have made EntreArchitect what it is today.

The future is bright, but it’s up to us to shape it. Let’s continue to love, learn, and share. Let’s dream big and take bold steps toward those dreams. Let’s build a profession—and a world—that reflects our highest aspirations.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to the next 12 years of EntreArchitect!