DIG has been named a For-Profit Business of the Year Finalist (1-100 Employees Category) by NJBIZ. This esteemed recognition highlights DIG’s latest strides in architectural excellence, innovation, community development and mentorship. The firm also is a recent-past AIA-NJ Firm of the Year recipient, recognized for its unyielding dedication in these same areas.
“We are honored to be named in such elite company among New Jersey’s best-in-business,” said Jeff Venezia, DIG CEO and a co-founding principal “This achievement is a reflection of the hard work and dedication to our team members, who are committed to shaping a brighter future for all and being a catalyst for positive change.”
DIG’s unique design approach is rooted in its “Architecture for Change” philosophy. More than an adage, this axiom fuels the firm’s growth and expansion and continues to be pivotal for addressing systemic disparities across the state’s underserved communities.
Established in 2006, DIG’s initial journey focused on rehabilitating and building urban schools through a multi-firm collaboration and ultimate merger. This redefined collaborative design approach, which bridges equity and representation gaps, now extends to a wide range of sectors, from education to healthcare, senior living and community spaces.
“At DIG, we give local residents a voice in the design and build process because their insight yields aesthetically pleasing, functional – as well as a culturally relevant and accessible – spaces,” said Vince Myers, President and a co-founding principal. “Through the power of design and architecture, we create spaces that inspire, uplift and empower.”
Beyond Design: A Force for Good
DIG’s commitment to social impact extends well beyond its design work to community outreach initiatives and mentorship. This includes teens who are considering ACE or STEM careers as well as young architects.
Taking its position as a leader in diversity and engagement one step further, DIG also earned and maintains certifications as a(n) MBE, DBE and SBE. These qualifications highlight the firm’s commitment to pluralism and equity through staffing and hiring practices that reflect the community demographics where its projects are located.
“DIG’s rise to a top architectural firm is rooted in a commitment to innovative design, DEI best practices, mentorship and community engagement, all of which drive changemaking,” said Rich Alderiso, COO and a co-founding principal. “Through DIG’s talented team, we’re shaping a brighter future for New Jersey, New York City, Philadelphia and beyond.”
Beyond its “Architecture for Change” mission, DIG also is focused on expanding its studio and service offerings. Headquartered in New Brunswick, NJ, DIG is active in NYC and Philadelphia. In the latter, the firm established an office five years ago to serve the growing surrounding markets.
The NJBIZ Business of the Year Awards recognize outstanding businesses across New Jersey. The winners will be announced at a morning awards ceremony on Thursday, December 12 at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Somerset, N.J.