Our Story

The name VINCO is derived from two Latin roots: VIN, meaning to conquer, and CO, meaning together. This philosophy is central to everything we do. VINCO Creative produces high-quality visual content for brands nationwide while also serving as a platform for collaboration, creativity, and cultural expression. Rooted in Chicago, VINCO has grown into a creative studio and cultural hub that champions artists across film, music, dance, and visual art supporting both creators and communities through meaningful storytelling.

VINCO Creative was founded in Chicago by Michael Panico, a former student-athlete at Northwestern University whose athletic career was cut short by injury. Faced with an unexpected turning point, Michael found new purpose through filmmaking, discovering the power of visual storytelling as a way to connect people, preserve emotion, and create meaning beyond sports. After graduating from Northwestern University’s Radio, Television, and Film program, Michael began his professional career at Cinespace Film Studios working on major productions including Empire (FOX) and the critically acclaimed Fargo (FX). That same year, Matt “Hobart” Miller joined the VINCO team after meeting Michael while working in the local film industry. Hobart began his creative career shooting and editing video for athletic programs while studying at the University of Illinois.

Since 2018, VINCO Creative has produced work for brands such as DoorDash, Ralph Lauren, BOSE, NFL Films, and more. Through a residency with Independent Film Alliance Chicago, VINCO produced the short film Carjack (2021) earning praise and recognition on the festival circuit. This lead to their most recent feature film, Room Six (2025), being acquired for distribution by Freestyle Digital Media.

Today, VINCO Creative operates at the intersection of brand storytelling, independent film, and cultural advocacy. They believe the most powerful work is created together through collaboration, authenticity, and shared experience. VINCO Creative remains committed to telling stories that resonate, connect, and endure.

For creators and consumers of the arts...

VINCO provides a platform that fosters collaboration and supports the growth of the diverse Chicago art scene.