Whether it be graphic design, web development or Gaelic language services, we deliver hand-crafted solutions that draw people together and stand the test of time. Grown from the Gaelic word for language, we are Cànan by name and by nature. Communication is at our heart, in our roots and on our tongues.
Born and bred on the Isle of Skye, we work by the sea and next to the mountains – and so we know beauty, and live and breathe vision every day. Inspiration leads to inspiration.
But we, all of us, live and breathe in a swiftly evolving environment, and know what it means to be grounded – to hold innovation in harmony with endurance. The world needs passion with common sense, and we have it in spades.
About
We started in 1992 as a niche agency to provide Gaelic learning tools, and since then have spread our wings in the fields of design, language and creative media. On our approach, we have expanded our expertise and deepened our knowledge, delivering award-winning services and directing national initiatives.
We are small in size, but don’t let that fool you: we are big on experience. Our tight-knit, dynamic and discerning team works fluidly to orchestrate strategies in partership with you, with efficiency and intelligence. Cànan can translate your ideas into robust, effective and beautiful solutions for projects of any scale.
We know that it’s our products that speak to our strengths – and our team and our clients that make us unique. Have a look at our latest work and see for yourself the community that is Cànan.
Our Work
Gaelic Toolkit
The story
On the 21 of April 2005 the Scottish Parliament passed the Gaelic Language Act, which received Royal Assent on the 1st of June the same year. Since then, Cànan, in partnership with other organisations, has created the Gaelic Toolkit.
The product
Part product and part bespoke project, the toolkit is an online solution that responds directly to the “speaking Gaelic at the workplace” requirement. Gaelic lessons and media-rich supporting resources are combined with tailored tools to suit the particular needs of each organisation.
The people
Scottish Natural Heritage, the Forestry Commission, The Crofters Commission and CalMac are already on-board. Gaelic is part of Scotland’s future. Do you want to be left behind?
EDTC / PRC
Edinburgh Napier University established EDTC Technology Gateway and the Product Realisation Centre (PRC) with the aim of offering technical expertise to Scottish businesses and individuals wishing to refine their business acumen, turn ideas into assets and bring products to fruition. As unique providers of technological advice and support, they in turn asked Cànan to provide our own creative expertise in producing a sharp, attractive brand identity and website that communicates their message of success.
www.edtc.org.uk
www.productrealisation.org.uk
Services: brand identity development including brand development workshops, graphic design (banners, brochures, stationery, photography, web design, copywriting, key strap-lines for strategy marketing
LearnGaelic.net
Born of a partnership of organisations in the Gaelic community, the LearnGaelic resource answers to an essential and long-awaited purpose: to create a single place where Gaelic learners of every age and ability can find the tools they need to navigate new territory. Cànan has designed and illustrated a website that makes learning Gaelic accessible, easy and engaging, whilst entirely reversioning the classic programme Speaking our Language for online use, producing a package that includes transcripts of each episode in both Gaelic and English and a set of supportive PDF exercises.
Services: brand identity, graphic design, web design and development, Gaelic transcription and translation, photography, project management
FilmG - the Gaelic Shorts competition
For four years running, Cànan has managed FilmG, a celebrated project that we have nurtured from concept to final delivery. In addition to creating and managing a dedicated website to house the annual Gaelic short film competition and showcase previous films – 71 in the last year alone – we deliver a specialised training programme to support would-be filmmakers. And, at the end each year’s competition, we market and produce an awards ceremony that presents the best of the best with an array of coveted prizes, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Argyll and Bute Council.
Services: project management, public relations and promotion, web and graphic design, brand identity, photography, Gaelic translation and proofing, event management
We are the only company in the world that offers our particular range of skills and services. Our clients may ask us to paint a picture and tell a story one day, or deliver a simple message the next. Whether it’s a foundation that needs laying, or an expedition that wants leading, we tailor-make our solutions - on time and to budget, every time.
Our services include (but are not limited to):
Our Services
Art direction
Creative concepts
Project management
Event management
Graphic design, illustration and photography
Cross-platform web design and development
Content management systems
Branding and marketing
Copywriting
Language strategy
Language training
Online learning
Clients 
We love answering questions and finding solutions, to your specifications.
Get in touch - we’ll make it easy for you.
Contact
fios@canan.co.uk