Barter with eidetide
eidetide is a for-profit creative intelligence lab. Most of our work is paid, and we price it that way on purpose—because good work deserves stable support.
That said, we also believe barter is part of the future. Not as a shortcut, and not as “free work,” but as a form of exchange that can build real relationships, expand access, and create momentum when the trade is mutual and clearly defined.
Our approach is simple: cash-first, barter second. Barter is offered selectively, with structure, and only when it strengthens the ecosystem for both sides.
Cash-First Services. Barter, with Intention.
What “Barter” Means Here
Barter with eidetide is a written exchange agreement where value is clear on both sides. That value might be goods, access, space, expertise, or services.
The goal is not to “save money.” The goal is to create a fair trade that moves something real forward—for you and for us. Barter is not a replacement for payment. It’s a second path we open when it makes sense.
When Barter is a Fit
Barter may be considered when:
The exchange is mutual, specific, and measurable
The need is time-sensitive or access-based (space, equipment, expertise, support)
The scope is realistic and can be delivered in defined milestones
The trade supports real business needs (not vague “exposure”)
The relationship feels aligned with our values and the work we’re building
Legacy and remembrance projects are welcome in barter inquiries. Because these moments can be tender and time-sensitive, we move with extra care: clear scope, mutual consent, and dignity-first boundaries—so expectations stay clean, support stays respectful, and no one is pressured into an exchange that doesn’t truly fit. Barter should create relief and mutual support, not invisible pressure.
In some cases, we may offer a hybrid exchange (partial cash + partial barter) to cover hard costs like web tools, production expenses, travel, or software.
How Barter Works
01
Submit the Barter Inquiry
Tell us what you need and what you’re offering in return.
02
We Review For Fit
We assess alignment, scope, timing, and whether this is a barter-eligible project.
03
We Define Value and Scope
If it’s a fit, we confirm the exchange value and deliverables on both sides.
04
We Put It In Writing
We outline milestones, timelines, responsibilities, and boundaries—so the exchange stays clean and respectful.
Timing note: We aim to respond within 3 business days.
What We Can Offer Through Barter
Barter can be proposed across eidetide’s full suite of offerings, but it’s typically strongest when the scope is clear, time-bound, and deliverable-based. Examples include:
Messaging and narrative clarity (what you do, who it’s for, why it matters)
Website copy + content architecture (Squarespace-friendly)
Brand foundations (voice, positioning, naming direction)
PR + communications support (press materials, internal messaging, executive narrative)
Photography / creative collateral for a specific event or milestone
Strategy intensives (a short sprint with defined outputs)
If you’re unsure where your request fits, that’s okay—the form below is designed to route it to the right place.
Our Boundaries
To protect both sides, we don’t accept barter arrangements that rely on ambiguity:
No “exposure” as payment
No open-ended scope (“whatever you think is best”)
No urgency pressure
No assumption of ongoing support beyond what’s written
No exchange that creates imbalance, hidden labor, or unclear expectations
Barter should feel equal, not complicated.
Barter Inquiry Form
Current Barter Interests
Currently Interested In Bartering Services For:
Home remodeling labor (St. Louis, MO)
Honda Element (under 150,000 miles)
Honda Pilot (2010–2015, under 100,000 miles)
Event space (Albuquerque, NM)
Examples Of Additional Kinds Of Exchanges We May Consider:
Tools, equipment, or production support that expands our capacity
Transportation or other major operational resources
Professional services that strengthen our infrastructure (legal, accounting, systems, etc.)
Event-related partnerships (venue, rentals, printing, signage, etc.)
Specialized expertise we can’t reasonably source internally
Lab Kit Barter Projects (Portfolio + Product Rights)
In select cases, we may accept a barter arrangement where our primary compensation is the right to package and sell the finished work as a Lab Kit on our website.
This means the Lab Kit may include the brand’s likeness—such as name, logo, and core brand system—so others can learn from a real-world example. If needed, we may make light adjustments (e.g., color variants or small presentation edits) while keeping the brand clearly recognizable.
All Lab Kit rights and usage terms are confirmed in writing before work begins.
(This list will evolve as the ecosystem grows—and it’s not exhaustive. We’re also open to trades we haven’t named yet, especially the imaginative and unconventional ones that are genuinely useful. If the exchange is clear, fair, and aligned, we’ll consider it.)
eidetide is a for-profit business. Barter is not a charitable contribution. In many cases, barter transactions may have tax implications for one or both parties. We recommend consulting a qualified tax professional for guidance.
Note On Taxes And Records
Want The Research Side Of Barter?
Barter as a practice is also something we study. If you’re interested in the ideas behind exchange—creative economy, value, power, trust, and modern work—visit our experimental studio: into the barter.