Kate English
Hi! Tell us about yourself
Before launching collab-it with my co-founder, I spent 20+ years leading integrated marketing, brand strategy, and partnerships
for powerhouse brands like Delish, Food Network Magazine, HGTV Magazine, Oprah Daily, and The Pioneer Woman.
Beyond my business, I’m an adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology's Internship Studies program and a NYC school mentor with iMentor.
I LIVE for travel and have explored 48 countries and counting with my husband and teenage son. When I’m not working or traveling, you’ll find me on a run, in a SoulCycle class, playing soccer at the West Orange Armory, or getting my hands dirty in the garden.
Fun fact: I was a 4-Her growing up and will proudly show pictures of me with my cow, pig, sheep or horse.
Tell us about your business!
collab-it is a brand collaboration consultancy based in South Orange, NJ and Tallahassee, FL, working with brands across the country. We specialize in helping small to mid-sized businesses (typically $10M+ in revenue) navigate the increasingly complex and competitive media landscape through strategic partnerships and sponsorships. Acting as a seamless extension of in-house teams, we simplify the process—from sourcing to execution—using a data-driven, customer-first approach. With deep cross-industry experience and a network that spans brands, agencies, editors, and experts, we know how to open doors and make things happen. We lead with insights, stay flexible, and focus on what really matters: growing your brand in a smart, impactful way.
Where did you grow up?
Western NY, just outside of Geneseo
How long have you lived in SOMa?
20 years in December- 7 years in Maplewood and 13 years in South Orange.
How many years have you been in business?
Just over 6 months!
What excites you the most about what you do?
Connecting brands who can mutually benefit from the assets the other one has to create a surprise and delight moment for consumers.
What inspired you to start your own business?
The media world has changed from when I started. I wanted to get back to having fun and tap into the passion I have for what I do.
What is it about you that makes you so good at what you do?
love connecting with people and brands to develop a big network and coming up with creative ideas to bring them together.
What's your superpower in your business?
A just say yes attitude.
What legacy do you hope to leave through your business?
Smart marketing that makes a business impact without an obsession with data dashboards.
What's the wildest dream you have for your business's future?
Getting the band back together! I’ve worked with so many talented people throughout my career, I’d love to be able to scale our business to add them to the team while increasing our offerings.
What’s your favorite ’90s jam?
Better Man (Pearl Jam)
If your business was a color, what color would it be and why?
Green for growth and opportunity
A quote you live by:
“Attitude not aptitude leads to higher altitudes.” - Zig Ziglar