Archive for category: News

Brandt Secures Contract with Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game for New Licensing Solution

Brandt, a leading provider of advanced technology solutions, is proud to announce its recent contract award with the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG). Under this partnership, Brandt will replace DFG’s current MassFishHunt licensing site to introduce an innovative licensing solution that streamlines the management of events, hunt/fish licenses, and communications across the state.

As part of the implementation, Brandt will deploy its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) services, known as ATLAS, to enhance DFG’s engagement with stakeholders and constituents. This comprehensive suite of solutions underscores Brandt’s commitment to delivering end-to-end support and efficiency for organizations dedicated to environmental stewardship.

“We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game,” stated Jeff Roberts, Chief Technology Officer and Terra Project Manager at Brandt. “Our Terra platform, coupled with ATLAS CRM services, will empower DFG with the right tools to effectively manage licenses, engage stakeholders, and host successful events. We are eager to support DFG in achieving its mission.”

Brandt continues to strengthen its presence in the conservation sector, underscoring the company’s dedication to leveraging technology for the greater good.

For more information about Brandt Information Services and its solutions, visit brandtinfo.com.

Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game
The Department of Fish and Game works to preserve the state’s natural resources. We exercise responsibility over the Commonwealth’s marine and freshwater fisheries, wildlife species, plants, and natural communities, as well as the habitats that support them.

About Brandt Information Services
Brandt Information Services is a leading provider of innovative software solutions for government agencies and private organizations. With a focus on improving operational efficiency and user experience, Brandt offers a wide range of services, including licensing and registration systems, payment processing, and data management solutions. With a strong commitment to client success, Brandt continues to deliver cutting-edge technology to simplify complex processes and empower organizations to achieve their goals.

Brandt Information Services Welcomes New Equity Investment to Fuel Continued Growth as a Leading Technology Solutions Provider to Outdoor Recreation Market


New Investment from Providence Equity Partners Supports Brandt’s Ongoing Growth Following Highly Successful and Continued Partnership with NexPhase Capital

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. & PROVIDENCE, R.I. & NEW YORK–Brandt Information Services (“Brandt” or the “Company”), a leading provider of outdoor recreational technology platforms, today announced an equity investment from Providence Equity Partners (“Providence”), a premier private equity firm specializing in growth-oriented investments in media, communications, education and technology. As part of the transaction, NexPhase Capital, LP (“NexPhase”), a thematically driven and operationally focused private equity firm and current investor in Brandt, will retain equity in the Company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The Company will continue to be led by its CEO Travis Warren and the existing management team.

Founded in 1985, Brandt provides innovative, modern, and secure technology solutions to public and private organizations with wildlife conservation and recreational management operations. With a variety of platform offerings including licenses, registrations, reservations, marketing and merchandising, Brandt is an all-in-one partner for outdoor recreational management needs, delivering best-in-class customer service.

Since NexPhase’s investment in 2018, Brandt has executed on its long-term growth objectives, including significant growth through organic product extensions and adding new agency partners, the strategic acquisitions of Terra Technology Group in 2022 and Itinio in 2023 and enhancing the Company’s operations in order to scale and to continue providing excellent service.

“NexPhase has been a great partner for Brandt during an exciting period of growth and innovation,” said Richard Wise, Founder and Board Member of Brandt. “Today, we are excited to build on the momentum delivering unparalleled solutions and experiences for outdoor enthusiasts by bringing in Providence to help us get to the next level of service for our recreational government agency customers.”

Brandt is a preeminent provider of modern software for outdoor recreational management needs. We look forward to partnering with Travis and the rest of the team to help advance their portfolio of solutions and services and support the development of new capabilities that help customers streamline their processes,”

said William Hughes, a Managing Director at Providence.

Joshua Selip, a Principal at Providence, added, “Brandt has a compelling value proposition and is well-positioned to address the evolving needs of outdoor recreational agencies and their consumers. We plan to bring Providence’s deep experience building technology businesses to help fuel Brandt’s growth in its next chapter.”

“We are pleased to have executed on our shared strategic objectives in partnership with the Brandt management team,” said Joel Killion, Partner at NexPhase. “At NexPhase, our mission is to unlock value and position the companies we partner with to navigate the ‘next phase’ of their growth. We are confident that Brandt’s expanded offerings and reach will continue to lead the industry and redefine how technology is deployed and utilized by outdoor recreational organizations during the Company’s next chapter.”

“Finding the right investment partners who share our conviction in powering the outdoor economy is crucial to our continued success,” said Travis Warren, CEO of Brandt. “We are grateful for the exceptional value, insight and resources the NexPhase team has provided in supporting our growth thus far, positioning Brandt to continue transforming the outdoor experience for our customers across the country.
 

We are excited to welcome the experienced Providence team as our new majority owners to help us grow and innovate for the benefit of our customers and our team.”


Shea & Company, TD Securities, and VRA acted as financial advisors to Brandt. Choate, Hall & Stewart LLP served as legal advisor to Brandt and NexPhase. Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated served as financial advisor and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP served as legal advisor to Providence. Capital One, N.A. and funds and accounts managed by HPS Investment Partners, LLC provided debt financing to Providence.

About Brandt
Brandt is a leading provider of licensing, registrations, reservations, and e-commerce solutions for the outdoor recreational market, providing simple, modern, and secure technology solutions to conservation agencies and their users. The company has successfully scaled in the outdoor recreational industry with products and services to support hunting, fishing, boating and camping transactions.

About Providence Equity Partners
Providence Equity Partners is a specialist private equity investment firm focused on growth-oriented media, communications, education and technology companies across North America and Europe. Providence combines its partnership approach to investing with deep industry expertise to help management teams build exceptional businesses and generate attractive returns. Since its founding in 1989, Providence has invested over $36 billion across more than 175 private equity portfolio companies. With its headquarters in Providence, RI, the firm also has offices in New York, London, Boston and Atlanta. For more information, please visit www.provequity.com.

About NexPhase Capital
NexPhase Capital is a thematically driven and operationally focused lower middle-market private equity firm that makes control investments in growth-oriented and capital-efficient companies within three distinct industry verticals: healthcare, software, and consumer. NPC partners with companies that have reached a growth inflection point and are seeking a value-added partner to help navigate the company’s “next phase.” The NPC team has extensive industry and operational experience and NPC’s partners have invested together for over a decade. NexPhase has completed over 100 investments, including add-ons, and targets control equity investments between $40 million and $150 million. Since inception, NPC has raised and managed approximately $2.6 billion of capital. For more information, please visit www.NexPhase.com.

Turkeys and Tactics: A Tailored Drip Campaign Success Story

As Brandt and Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IADNR) geared up for another thrilling turkey hunting season, the team launched a marketing campaign designed to boost participation and to emphasize the importance of conservation by encouraging hunters to buy their spring turkey tags.

This email drip campaign guided customers through retargeting efforts based on their behavior, combining reminders for both the spring turkey preseason and season. The target audience, envisioned by the DNR, was tailored to fit the persona of a turkey hunter, informing the direction of the campaign. Hunters without an active spring turkey privilege and those who completed HuntersEd received the preseason email a week before the start of season 1. For those who had the mobile app downloaded and subscribed to notifications, a push notification was sent on the first day of season 1 as a reminder.

Leading up to season 2, an additional email was created and sent using Atlas’ WYSIWYG email builder to the same target audience, dynamically excluding those who had already purchased a spring turkey tag. Subsequently, at the commencement of season 4, a push notification was dispatched to individuals who had purchased a tag for seasons 1, 2, or 3 but had not yet acquired one for season 4.

Upon completion of the 30-day journey, a total of 566,000 emails and push notifications were dispatched, generating $7,617 in attributed revenue. The campaign achieved a 40.13% email open rate, a 5.4% push notification open rate, and a 1.04% click-through rate.

This targeted email drip campaign, meticulously tailored to the behavior and needs of turkey hunters, showcased impressive results. By strategically timing reminders and exclusions, coupled with dynamic content delivery, the campaign achieved significant engagement and revenue. As we continue to refine our approach, these insights will undoubtedly inform future initiatives, driving even greater success in our efforts to connect with and serve our audience effectively.

Brandt Successfully Launches New Reservation System and Marina Contract Support for Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District

Brandt is delighted to announce the successful implementation of a cutting-edge reservation system and improved marina contract support for the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD). MWCD entrusted Brandt to spearhead this pivotal project of optimizing operations and unifying fragmented systems. With dedication and expertise, Brandt successfully rolled out the new system on May 29, 2024, marking a significant milestone in MWCD’s journey towards operational efficiency and seamless management.

Situated in central/eastern Ohio, MWCD boasts an extensive network of recreational facilities, including 1,246 campsites, 71 cabins, 28 day-use facilities, and over 1,650 marina slips spread across 12 locations. Throughout the project, our dedicated teams worked tirelessly to address challenges and ensure a seamless transition. Our teams collaborated closely with MWCD stakeholders to understand their requirements and develop a solution that would meet their evolving needs. The integration of multiple systems into a unified accounting workflow not only eliminated manual entry but also reduced redundant, time-consuming processes, enhancing overall efficiency.

“Brandt’s Training and Project Management teams were instrumental in facilitating knowledge transfer and ensuring a seamless transition for MWCD staff,” stated Dave McLean, General Manager of Brandt’s Itinio Platform. “We delivered a solution that is driving tangible results and fostering lasting partnerships.”

The successful launch of the reservation system and enhanced marina contract support underscores Brandt’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions that drive tangible results for their customers. Brandt is proud to have partnered with Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District on this transformative journey and looks forward to continuing to support them in their mission to provide exceptional recreational experiences for visitors across the region.

To make a reservation, click here: https://reserve.mwcd.org/

About Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District
Responsible stewards dedicated to providing the benefits of flood reduction, conservation and recreation in the Muskingum River Watershed.

About Brandt Information Services
Brandt Information Services is a leading provider of innovative software solutions for government agencies and private organizations. With a focus on improving operational efficiency and user experience, Brandt offers a wide range of services, including licensing and registration systems, payment processing, and data management solutions. With a strong commitment to client success, Brandt continues to deliver cutting-edge technology to simplify complex processes and empower organizations to achieve their goals.

Launch Alert: Go Outdoors Georgia Merchandise

Brandt officially launched Go Outdoors Georgia Merchandise on May 3, offering a seamless platform for the public to purchase apparel, drinkware, and equipment along with their licenses.

The response has been spectacular, with orders flooding in without any initial external promotion of the store. Public consumers have jumped at the opportunity to support Georgia’s wildlife conservation efforts by wearing the branded gear. Products include sling packs, dry bags, lunch coolers, hats, and tumblers further enhancing the offerings available to outdoor enthusiasts in one seamless checkout.

The appeal of Go Outdoors Georgia merch has crossed state lines, with shipments reaching 17 states across the nation, including Georgia, Oregon, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. This widespread reach underscores the universal appeal and quality of the items offered.

Brandt Secures Contract with Idaho State Parks for Innovative Recreational Management System

Brandt, the govtech leader in innovative recreational management software, is pleased to announce its successful bid for the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation’s (IDPR) Recreational Management System contract. This contract entails the development of a comprehensive statewide recreational vehicle/vessel registration, campground reservation, and retail management system, leveraging a centralized database to oversee Idaho’s thirty (30) park locations, historical sites, and facilities statewide.

“This partnership signifies our dedication to delivering top-notch recreational services to our visitors,” said Susan Buxton, Director of IDPR. “This system transition will enhance the overall guest experience, aligning perfectly with our mission to promote accessibility and enjoyment of our natural resources.”

Supporting IDPR’s vision for a customer-centric and data-driven approach, Brandt will provide an integrated web-based suite of applications for managing reservations, ticketing, recreational registrations, retail purchases, and point-of-sale services across Idaho State Parks. This includes registrations for boats, snowmobiles, and off-highway vehicles, as well as campground reservations/camping for campsites, cabins, yurts, houses, cottages, and day-use facilities.

“We are thrilled to have been chosen to deploy our reservations platform in the beautiful state of Idaho,” stated Travis Warren, CEO of Brandt. “Our mission is to transform the outdoor recreational experience for all. Similar to our partnership with Idaho Fish and Game, we eagerly anticipate bringing our expertise in reservations and registrations to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.”

Brandt’s platform will increase registration compliance, campground occupancy, foster loyalty, drive revenue growth, and improve the quality of customer experiences through outdoor recreation and resource stewardship. Check back for more information regarding the Idaho Parks Reservations solution launch.


About Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation
IDPR’s core values include integrity, compassion, service, stewardship and commitment. We protect the resources that are entrusted to us, we strive to help visitors experience those resources in a positive way and we endeavor to be vital members of the communities in which we operate.

About Brandt Information Services
Brandt Information Services is a leading provider of innovative software solutions for government agencies and private organizations. With a focus on improving operational efficiency and user experience, Brandt offers a wide range of services, including licensing and registration systems, payment processing, and data management solutions. With a strong commitment to client success, Brandt continues to deliver cutting-edge technology to simplify complex processes and empower organizations to achieve their goals.

Donald Forgione: Partnering with Brandt for an Unforgettable Outdoor Experience

Donald Forgione, with four decades of leadership in park management and conservation, epitomizes innovation and dedication in the industry. From his tenure as a Park Ranger to the former Director of Florida’s Park System to his role as a sought-after consultant and speaker, Donald’s commitment to excellence shines through.

“I have partnered with Brandt Information Services, a renowned leader in the State Park industry, offering modern technology solutions to conservation agencies.” Donald emphasizes.

His Tailgate Talks approach, emphasizes active listening and tailored solutions. As the lead author of “The Ecotourism Provider’s Handbook,” Donald offers invaluable insights into creating exceptional park experiences while preserving natural resources.

Donald’s talents extend beyond conservation and recreation, captivating audiences with his podcast and motivational speaking. Whether addressing management challenges or inspiring teams, Tailgate Talks with Donald, offer expertise and enjoyment in equal measure.

“Donald’s Tailgate Talks Podcast has an incredibly positive impact on state parks agencies across the nation,” said Matt Mitchell, Brandt’s Chief Revenue Officer. “We are proud to partner with Donald Forgione and his extensive experience spanning over 40 years as an avid camper and a respected leader in the State Park industry.”

Together, Brandt and Donald Forgione are transforming the outdoor experience for the users of these cherished places and the agencies that proudly steward them.

Idaho Fish and Game’s E-tagging for Salmon/Steelhead Is Now Available.

Idaho Fish and Game’s new electronic salmon and steelhead permit rollout—aka e-tags—is now available through the Go Outdoors Idaho mobile app.

Selecting an e-tag is optional when buying salmon and steelhead permits online and in-person, and paper tags are still available for those who prefer the traditional method of reporting their catch. Anglers with a current paper permit will not be eligible to switch to an e-tag for the 2024 season, but will be able to choose an e-tag in 2025.

E-tagging allows anglers to buy an electronic salmon or steelhead permit and start fishing immediately instead of waiting for a paper tag to arrive in the mail. E-tagging also allows salmon or steelhead anglers to validate their permits electronically. Anglers can use the app while out of cell service, in low service areas, and while the device is on airplane mode.

To learn more about IDFG’s e-tagging for salmon/steelhead, click here.

To learn how to purchase and validate your electronic permit, click here.

Brandt Sees Surge in Online Engagement Across the Nation

Brandt, a leading technology solutions provider for outdoor recreation agencies and their consumers, has witnessed significant growth in online engagement across all its operational states over the past three years. The transformative digital adoption is validated by continually increasing daily website visitors and sustained average engagement time.

“Brandt’s commitment to providing exceptional online experiences and staying at the forefront of digital innovation has been unwavering,” said Travis Warren, CEO of Brandt. “The steady increase in year-over-year online engagement confirms our ability to transform the outdoor experience for state and local governments to provide modern, streamlined services to their public consumers.”

Across 19 of Brandt’s agency partners, Brandt has witnessed an average of +29% website visitation increase over the past three years combined. This includes the latest +11% increase from 2022-2023 year-over-year annual website users.

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Brandt has continuously invested in enriching its online presence to better serve its customers. In addition to Brandt’s CRM fueling automated targeted marketing campaigns, the intuitive user experiences to purchase licenses, registrations, and reservations have streamlined the online checkout process.

While maintaining growth, Brandt is continually innovating by leveraging modern technology strategies to bring forth system revenue-generating opportunities to its agency partners, solidifying its position as a trusted leader in the industry.

West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Signs New Contract with Brandt

Brandt is thrilled to announce a new contract with West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) to continue the electronic licensing and game checking system. Brandt may continue to support WVDNR for another ten years with this new contract, solidifying its long-term collaborative partnership with the Division.

Extending this agreement with Brandt enables WVDNR to further enhance the licensing system by introducing additional features and improvements specifically designed to meet the changing needs of license holders, vendors, and the general public. This includes customer hard cards, R3 marketing automation tools, donation opportunities, branded merchandise drop-shipping, credit card processing, and a mobile application.

Over the past contract term, Brandt’s Terra solution has enabled a variety of system enhancements improvements to support legislative and programmatic changes including: expansive online application configurations; evolving lottery logic; data visualization dashboards; and in-system surveys and certifications.

With Brandt, WVDNR has access to a team of experts to support operations as well as cross-state collaboration with other Brandt clients. The exposure provided by working with the industry-leading provider of outdoor recreational licensing and reservation solutions will continue to allow WVDNR to leverage lessons learned and new functionality for use cases across the country.

For more information about the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and the Brandt system, please visit brandtinfo.com.

About West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
It is the statutory mission of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources to provide and administer a long-range comprehensive program for the exploration, conservation, development, protection, enjoyment, and the use of the natural resources of the State of West Virginia. 

About Brandt Information Services
Brandt Information Services is a leading provider of innovative software solutions for government agencies and private organizations. With a focus on improving operational efficiency and user experience, Brandt offers a wide range of services, including licensing and registration systems, payment processing, and data management solutions. With a strong commitment to client success, Brandt continues to deliver cutting-edge technology to simplify complex processes and empower organizations to achieve their goals.