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Helm Experience & Design

Helm Experience & Design

Review
β˜…9.4/10
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Buffalo, NYΒ·2-9 employeesΒ·Est. 2014Β·Reviewed Feb 2026

Digital product studio specializing in UX-first software development, with portfolio including ACV Auctions.

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Best For
Design-led startups, Growing companies needing UX-first product development
Hourly Rate
$150-$199/hr
Min. Project
$10,000+
Industries
Automotive Tech, Startups, B2B SaaS

About Helm Experience & Design

Helm Experience & Design is a digital product studio in Buffalo founded in 2014 by Jonathan Gorczyca and Nicholas Barone. The studio focuses on UX research, UI design, and custom software development for web and mobile applications. Notable work includes building products for ACV Auctions, which went public in 2021 raising over $400 million, and supporting startups funded through 43North, Buffalo's startup competition.

Who Helm Experience & Design Is Best For

Helm is best for companies that want design and engineering tightly integrated from day one. Their track record with ACV Auctions and 43North-funded startups demonstrates comfort working with high-growth companies at inflection points. The studio's size means clients get senior-level attention throughout the project rather than being handed off to junior teams.

Why Choose Helm Experience & Design

Design-first development approach
Proven startup track record
Senior team on every project
End-to-end product ownership

Things to Consider

β€”Premium pricing at $150-199/hr
β€”Small studio limits large-scale project bandwidth
β€”Not suited for simple marketing or brochure sites
β€”No marketing or SEO services

Helm Experience & Design Services

UX/UI DesignCustom Software DevelopmentWeb App DevelopmentMobile App DevelopmentPrototypingDesign SystemsUser Research

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