Welcome to our year‑long series celebrating the entrepreneurs and small businesses that have shaped the nation’s economy over 250 years. You can view the entire series here.
When NASA reached out to Florida-based HC Brands for a custom logo stamp tied to the Artemis II mission, CEO Bryan Croft and his team knew it was no ordinary project.
“It came with real engineering constraints and a ‘build it exactly to spec’ expectation,” Croft explained, highlighting how this stamp differed from the hundreds of custom projects the company had completed over the decades.
The challenge was deceptively complex. The stamp needed to meet strict requirements around weight, durability, and consistent performance. Croft and his team collaborated across design, engraving, wood fabrication, assembly, and quality checks, iterating prototypes until every detail aligned with NASA’s specifications.
“We had to reduce mass without sacrificing durability and still ensure the stamp performed consistently,” he said.
Great outcomes come from great alignment.Bryan Croft, CEO of HC Brands
Once complete, the stamp was delivered on time and is now aboard the Artemis II rocket, marking a rare moment when a small business contributed directly to a historic space mission. Croft recalls the experience as humbling: during a NASA supplier tour, he found himself walking among some of the largest aerospace companies in the world.
“It was a small-fish-in-a-huge-ocean moment I won’t forget,” he reflected.
For entrepreneurs, Croft emphasizes lessons that extend beyond stamps and space missions. Focus on quality, responsiveness, and alignment with your clients’ needs.
“Great outcomes come from great alignment,” he said, underlining how preparation, communication, and attention to detail can turn ordinary work into extraordinary opportunities.
From a small custom stamp shop to a contributor to one of NASA’s flagship missions, HC Brands’ story illustrates how dedication, craftsmanship, and meticulous execution can propel a business into unexpected arenas—even into space.
CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.
CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here.
What can membership do for your business?
Gain tools to stay informed, competitive, and connected by becoming a U.S. Chamber of Commerce member. Membership gives you direct access to expert policy insights, economic updates, and exclusive resources designed to help your business thrive. From behind-the-scenes analysis from D.C. to exclusive discounts and expert support, U.S. Chamber membership helps you navigate change and seize new opportunities.
