If Madonna is to Lady Gaga, then Envato is to Freelance Switch. One would not exist without the other. A resource I was introduced prior to Freelance Switch was a website called Envato. See previous post for how useful Freelance Switch has been to me. But before harnessing the robustness of Freelance Switch, a gentleman, Roger Campos, I met at a creative professionals mixer (see Creative Connects post) referred me to Envato to obtain freelancer resources.
Envato’s mission is:
To help people to earn and to learn, online. We operate marketplaces where hundreds of thousands of people buy and sell digital goods every day, and a network of educational blogs where millions learn creative skills.
Located in Victoria, Australia, Envato was founded by married couple, Collis & Cyan (yes, like the CMYK convention) Ta’eed out of their living room in 2006. Envato consists of a variety of resources/websites to appease all of your creative freelancer needs. See below for a brief overview of their featured websites:
Envato Marketplaces: Need WordPress themes, background music, After Effects project films or Flash templates? This Envato website has them in high abundance. All created by freelance types who are buying and selling these new media necessities at a daily pace.
Tuts+ Network: Web and Multimedia technology is always changing and one can never be completely updated on all there is to know. That’s what Tuts+ Network helps facilitate; educational blogs for all to enjoy and learn the latest and greatest on: Graphics, Web Development, Audio Production, iPhone Development and Motion Graphics.
Freelance Switch: By far my most favorite Envato creation. Any and all your freelance needs for creative types and even those just looking for tips on client relationships, freelance accounting/invoice needs and even a little freelance humor can be found in this jem of a resource by Envato.
App Storm: The word “App” has a whole new meaning today than it did 5 years ago. App Storm, is a wonderful resource to turn your vision of a mobile app blueprint into a reality via a talented pool of freelance app developers plus reviews and news on the latest app advances.
Creattica: You don’t have to be the next Andy Warhol to appreciate great art and design. Creattica is an eye candy hub for things like Advertising, Business Cards and logos. All submissions are handpicked for the utmost eye candy quality.
Rockable Press: For those accustomed to the old fashion art of book reading versus online reading, Rockable Press is where you can find a series of freelance books published by Envato’s Rockable Press.
What I like most about Envato’s work is the down-to-earthiness of what they create. Their creations never make you feel like a tiny pawn in a huge sea of creativity. With Envato, you can find your niche and develop your expertise from that point on. Freelancing can be a daunting endeavor at times, but with quality resources like Envato, this daunting endeavor seems less overwhelming. In fact, Envato has become so reputable as a freelance resource, it has been featured in the Washington Post, BBC and the New York Times (just to name a few). So if you’re looking for a little freelance motivation/inspiration, definitely check out Envato. Also, please leave a comment on your thoughts about Envato. Let your ROAR be heard!
