This interview is a part of the EEDC's Get to Know the Owner Series.
Get to Know Rory Sweeney:
Rory has always been a creative problem-solver, passionate about helping others explore new ideas and guiding them toward transformative discoveries. This drive led him to a career in graphic design, which he sees as the ultimate form of creative problem-solving.
Before founding Topographics, Rory worked in multiple positions in the printing industry, which provided firsthand knowledge of the full production process. He discovered a knack for consulting, often referring to himself as a "creative therapist," helping clients uncover tailored solutions. Topographics started as a part-time venture while he juggled the challenges of being a full-time parent. Over time, the business grew and evolved, especially after partnering with Michael Zaun, whose complementary skills have helped propel Topographics to new heights.
When he’s not working, Rory enjoys exploring psychology and integrating it into his creative work. He’s also started an outdoor adventure club called Front Range Renegades,
Get to Know Michael Zaun:
A Colorado native from Boulder, Michael holds a degree in Marketing and Management and has spent his career in sales and marketing roles. After four years working for a sign company in Arvada and enduring a long commute, Michael sought a change that would allow him to be closer to his young family.
Fate intervened when he connected with Rory, a neighbor with shared interests in design and the outdoors. Their partnership began in early 2024 and officially launched in May of this year, blending Rory’s laid-back creativity with Michael’s high-energy, go-getter approach.
Michael thrives on building long-term client relationships and enjoys exploring innovative ways to bring clients’ visions to life. His expertise in sales and project management has been instrumental in growing Topographics, especially as the company takes on larger and more creative projects, such as recent custom signage for Little Man Ice Cream.
About Topographics:
Topographics is more than a signage company—it’s a branding partner. With the tagline Your Branding Navigator, Topographics helps businesses find the right solutions to elevate their brands.
The company specializes in creative and custom projects that go beyond basic signage. One standout example is their work with Little Man Ice Cream on their new location in Littleton. For this project, Topographics handled the project management and permitting to help create an authentic experience and ensure it aligned with the vibrant, playful identity that Little Man is known for. They also took part in mural signage indoors that was nothing short of unique. While most of the fabrication was outsourced, Topographics orchestrated every detail of these signage pieces, showcasing their expertise in creativity, logistics and execution.
What makes projects like this so exciting is clients looking to push boundaries and explore innovative design ideas. Michael’s skill in working closely with clients to uncover creative possibilities brought the vision to life, balancing practicality with bold design elements.
Topographics approaches every project with flexibility, leveraging a trusted network of specialized fabricators. This allows them to select the perfect partner for each job, ensuring high-quality results tailored to the client’s unique needs. From custom signage to intricate branding solutions, the Topographics team excels at turning big ideas into reality.
What Do You Love About Doing Business in Erie?
Erie’s small-town charm and big potential make it an ideal place for a creative business like Topographics. Both Rory and Michael call Erie home and are excited to contribute to its growth and direction.
The people of Erie are what makes being a part of this community so great. There’s a unique sense of connection and support among businesses, which makes collaboration exciting and inspiring. Erie’s welcoming and encouraging environment has been instrumental in Topographics’ growth. Organizations like the Erie Chamber of Commerce and EEDC have helped foster connections and opportunities, mirroring the company’s own development.
Want to know more about Topographics? Head to their website. Stay tuned as we get to know more local business owners in the coming months.
Want to be featured in our series? Join the EEDC today and be a part of Erie's economic engine and join the Erie Economic Development Council.
Topographics is a proud Member of the Erie Economic Development Council.
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