5e Creative Labs celebrates its 10th anniversary with a reputation for delivering high-quality development, creative solutions, and on-demand talent to clients around the globe. In 2015, it started as a small web design studio and took its first steps into the competitive digital services market.
Founded by Alfredo Gago and Esteban Soler, the company began with a singular focus: building visually compelling, functional websites. "We started with just web design and development," recalls Gago. "Over time, our clients asked for more complex solutions, not just websites, but apps and enterprise software. That pushed us to expand our capabilities and our team."
The expansion was gradual but significant. From its early days creating websites for local media outlets and high-profile personalities, 5e Creative Labs evolved into a trusted partner for larger companies and startups alike. Over the years, it has also partnered with well-established design agencies, securing multiple awards along the way through both Webby and Awwwards.
Four years ago, the company introduced on-demand staffing and headhunting services, allowing clients to hire specialized developers and engineers through flexible engagement models. Today, the company's in-house team has grown, supplemented by a network of on-demand talent placed through staff augmentation and full-time recruitment.
"We have built a model where clients can either have a team managed by us or we help them find and hire the right talent directly," Gago explains. "It's about giving companies the flexibility they need to scale."
One of 5e Creative Labs' unique strengths is its Costa Rican base. With a highly educated talent pool, strong English skills, and cultural similarities to North America, the company offers a nearshore advantage that balances cost savings, often 40% or more compared to U.S. rates, with uncompromised quality. "Being in Costa Rica gives us the best of both worlds," says Gago. "We are close in culture and time zone to our U.S. clients, and we deliver at a competitive rate without sacrificing standards."
Over the past decade, 5e Creative Labs has contributed to projects for major international brands through its partner agencies, as well as a wide range of startups. The company works with clients at every stage, from pre-seed to Fortune 500, using flexible pricing models, including flat fees, package deals, and ongoing support contracts. "Whether it's building an MVP for a startup or expanding the tech capacity of a large corporation, we stay engaged for the long haul," Soler says. "Our goal is not just to deliver a project, but to remain a trusted partner."
Looking ahead, 5e Creative Labs plans to continue expanding its roster of clients, particularly targeting startups with secured funding as well as established enterprises seeking nearshore development and staffing solutions. The team remains committed to innovation, quality, and maintaining the human touch that has been a hallmark of its success.
"Reaching 10 years in this industry is a big milestone," says Soler. "It reflects our ability to adapt, to deliver value, and to build relationships that last. We are proud of what we have achieved, and we are even more excited about what's next."
