List of the Best Advertising Companies

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Rankings updated: March 19, 2024
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  • SeedX

    Holistic digital and traditional marketing, technology development, and business strategy for sustainable growth.
    Top Services:
    Web Design eCommerce Development Digital Marketing Advertising
    Los Angeles, California
    Under 49 Inquire Inquire
    Expertise
    Hover to view additional Areas of Expertise
    Direct Mail
    B2B
    Print Advertising
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Ignite Visibility

    Verified
    The Expert Digital Marketing Agency (Sponsored)
    Ignite Visibility is a leader in SEO, online advertising, email, social media marketing and digital marketing. 200+ five star reviews, 3x Landy Award winner, 6x Inc. 5,000 company, #1 ranked full-serv [...]
    Top Services:
    Digital Marketing SEO Social Media Marketing Advertising
    San Diego, California
    100 - 249 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    Promotional Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Verified
    Big Brand Experience Put to Work for Small Business, Startups and Nonprofits
    Big Brand and Fortune 500 experience put to work for Small Businesses, Startups and Nonprofits.The Smartest People In The World Work With The Bureau Of Small Projects.Literally rocket scientists and b [...]
    Top Services:
    Logo Design Branding Full-Service Digital Advertising
    Los Angeles, California
    50 - 99 $150/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SkyDiamond Elite

    Verified
    The Last Digital Marketing Agency You'll Ever Have to Research
    Welcome to SkyDiamond Elite, your premier destination for bespoke ecommerce digital marketing solutions in fashion/apparel, luxury/lifestyle, and beauty. With a focus on personalized strategies and cu [...]
    Top Services:
    Digital Strategy Full-Service Digital eCommerce Advertising
    Austin, Texas
    Under 49 $250/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Rosemont Media

    A Modern Ad Agency for Healthcare
    At Rosemont Media, we are passionate about creating original, customized digital marketing solutions designed to boost business for our healthcare clients. Through our extensive experience and industr [...]
    Top Services:
    Media Buying Content Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    San Diego, California
    50 - 99 $150/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    Media Planning
    Print
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Verified
    AdVenture Awaits: Google Ads Mastery Beyond Limits.
    AdVenture Media Group is at the forefront of Google Advertising, trusted by global giants like Forbes and AMC. Our unparalleled expertise has made us a chosen partner by Google for training sessions w [...]
    Top Services:
    Digital Marketing PPC CRO Advertising
    Woodmere, New York
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • High Arc Media Inc.

    Verified
    We lead with video & digital marketing to make businesses more money.
    We do more than just point & shoot. We plan, we storyboard, we scout, we light, and we take our productions seriously. If you want something professional that stands out from the norm, we are the [...]
    Top Services:
    Video Production Video Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    Atlanta, Georgia
    Under 49 $250/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    Broadcast Video Advertising
    TV Advertising
    TV
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Searchbloom

    Verified
    Search Engine Marketing Done Right.
    Searchblooms Mission: To be the most trusted, transparent, and results-driven SEO & PPC marketing company in the industry. Get in touch with us and you'll see our difference.
    Top Services:
    SEO PPC CRO Advertising
    Draper, Utah
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    B2C
    B2B
    DTC
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Verified
    Top-Rated PPC & Digital Marketing Agency Focused on Driving Results
    The last digital marketing agency you'll ever need.
    Top Services:
    PPC Social Media Marketing Digital Marketing Advertising
    Pleasant Grove, Utah
    100 - 249 Inquire $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    Promotional Marketing
    B2C
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • HigherVisibility

    Verified
    4-Time SEO Agency of the Year. [Named Best Full-Service SEO and SEM Agency by Forbes]
    HigherVisibility is a Best-in-Class Digital Marketing Agency, specializing in SEO, Paid Media, and Website Design. We are proud to be a 4-Time SEO Agency of the Year Winner. Our professional staff tak [...]
    Top Services:
    SEO Digital Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    Memphis, Tennessee
    50 - 99 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    B2C
    Print Advertising
    TV Advertising
    Radio Advertising
    Direct Mail
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Need Help Selecting The Right Agency For Your Project?

    Need Help Selecting The Right Agency For Your Project?

    We can help you find verified agencies that fit your budget and other requirements within just a few days and free of charge.
  • Grow My Ads

    The Google Ads Agency You've Been Searching For
    Maximize the potential of your Google Ads account in 3 months or less with a team Of PPC Specialists 100% focused on putting dollars in your pocket.
    Top Services:
    PPC Advertising eCommerce Digital Strategy
    Fort Wayne, Indiana
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    B2C
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Click Intelligence

    Verified
    Results Driven Search Marketing Agency
    Click Intelligence is a data driven technical search marketing agency which is driven by its internally developed technology to deliver our clients a significant edge over their rivals. We believe in [...]
    Top Services:
    SEO PPC Digital Marketing Advertising
    Cheltenham, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $150/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Amazon Growth Lab

    Verified
    From Amazon Presence to Dominance
    We've empowered businesses to achieve 10x growth in just six months, skillfully launching new products and securing Page 1 rankings for high-volume keywords within the first four weeks. Our strategic [...]
    Top Services:
    Digital Marketing PPC SEO Advertising
    Los Angeles, California
    Under 49 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • eSEOspace

    Verified
    Custom Website Design Strategy. Local US-based team! We Preserve & Optimize your SEO in the Process
    We have 10+ years of experience designing websites from scratch. Our background and emphasis in behavior science allows us to creatively design websites to convert.
    Top Services:
    Web Design Web Development WordPress Website Design Advertising
    San Diego, California
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SmartSites

    Verified
    Think Web. Think Smart. Partner with the #1 Rated Digital Marketing Agency.
    Outsmart the competition with best-in-class digital marketing services. With over 450 5-star reviews online, SmartSites is America #1 rated digital marketing agency. Call (201) 870 6000 for a free con [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Design Web Development UI/UX Design Advertising
    Paramus, New Jersey
    100 - 249 $100/hr Inquire
    Expertise
    B2B
    B2C
    DTC
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • RNO1

    Verified
    RNO1 is a global branding & digital growth agency for modern brands.
    RNO1 is a Global Branding & Digital Growth Agency. Guiding Tech and Commerce Brands across Platforms and Places. Creating Radical Digital Experiences.
    Top Services:
    UI/UX Design Web Design Mobile App Development Advertising
    San Francisco, California
    50 - 99 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Propaganda Creative

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    You bring the steak, we'll bring the sizzle.
    Propaganda Creative is a full-fledged visual communication, design, and marketing agency providing services which include; branding, graphic design, website design & development, and digital advertisi [...]
    Top Services:
    Branding Web Design Logo Design Advertising
    Spokane, Washington
    Under 49 Inquire $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    TV Advertising
    Print Advertising
    Radio Advertising
    Direct Mail
    TV
    Radio
    Print
    Media Planning
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Consumr Buzz

    Verified
    We Make It Easy To Be Found Online
    Looking for a marketing plan that will actually work for your business? We're here to help! We specialize in creating strategic, cost-effective plans that are specifically designed to help your busine [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Design Web Development UI/UX Design Advertising
    Lake Worth, Florida
    50 - 99 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Delante

    Verified
    Data-Driven International SEO Powerhouse
    International SEO/SEM agency specialized in KPI-oriented search engine optimization processes. We provide hands-on services to power up our companies' digital optimizations. Ready to take your busines [...]
    Top Services:
    SEO Digital Marketing eCommerce Advertising
    Krakow, Poland
    50 - 99 $150/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Funnel Boost Media

    Verified
    LEAD GEN. | SEO/PPC | WEB DESIGN | VETERAN LED
    Funnel Boost Media is an all inclusive digital marketing company based in San Antonio, Texas. FBM specializes in everything from the creation of your marketing piece or website to the online advertisi [...]
    Top Services:
    SEO Digital Marketing Web Development Advertising
    San Antonio, Texas
    Under 49 $100/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    Promotional Marketing
    Out of Home
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Lounge Lizard

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Top Shelf Websites & Digital Marketing Led by Webby Award Judge and Forbes Writers. Founded: 1998
    Since 1998, Lounge Lizard Brandtenders and Marketing Mixologists Have Created the Internets Best Websites & Digital Marketing Campaigns Yielding the Highest ROI. Ask about our 7 Second Rule!
    Top Services:
    Web Development Web Design UI/UX Design Advertising
    New York City, New York
    50 - 99 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Digital Silk

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Growing Brands Online
    Digital Silk is an agency focused on Creating Superior Digital Experiences for their clients. They create cutting-edge brand strategies, websites, apps and results-driven marketing campaigns for mid-s [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Design eCommerce Development Branding Advertising
    New York City, New York
    100 - 249 $150/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Verified
    We don't promise results, we prove them.
    Dentists don't hire us for 'more of the same.' We believe that today's dental world requires a different way of marketing for success. We call it Alchemy - the bringing together of best-in-class marke [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Development Web Design UI/UX Design Advertising
    Denver, Colorado
    Under 49 $100/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    Promotional Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • KlientBoost

    Verified
    Driving Serious Business Results
    Propel your digital strategy with our expertise in Google Ads, SEO, and Email Marketing. Based across three dynamic cities, our 80+ team has consistently doubled our growth yearly by enhancing ROI for [...]
    Top Services:
    PPC Digital Marketing SEO Advertising
    Costa Mesa, California
    100 - 249 $100/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    Promotional Marketing
    B2B
    B2C
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • DD.NYC®

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    DD.NYC is an award-winning design agency for custom web design, top branding, CPG packaging!
    DD.NYC is an award-winning digital design agency focusing on branding, web design, and UI/UX in the heart of NYC.
    Top Services:
    Web Design Branding UI/UX Design Advertising
    New York City, New York
    50 - 99 $150/hr Inquire
    Expertise
    Out of Home Advertising
    Print Advertising
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Effeect

    Verified
    International Full-Service Digital Marketing Agency
    Our team of passionate professionals will help you start your digital game and achieve greater levels of success.
    Top Services:
    SEO Digital Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    Sheridan, Wyoming
    Under 49 $80/hr Under $1,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    B2C
    Promotional Marketing
    Media Planning
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Brandefy

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Unveil Your Story, Brandefy Your Impact.
    Brandefy, a leader in branded video production, offers cost-effective video solutions, emphasizing the power of storytelling. Our experienced team is your partner from development to distribution, ens [...]
    Top Services:
    Video Production Video Marketing Advertising
    Los Angeles, California
    Under 49 $125/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    TV Advertising
    Broadcast Video Advertising
    B2B
    Promotional Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Digital Darts

    Verified
    Increase your Shopify profit through paid social, search, and email.
    Digital Darts build profits for Shopify stores through paid social, search, and email.
    Top Services:
    SEO Email Marketing PPC Advertising
    Toowoomba, Australia
    Under 49 $200/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    DTC
    Promotional Marketing
    Experiential Marketing
    Print
    Radio
    TV
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Evestar

    Verified
    Your Ecommerce Marketing Agency, We help brands transform potential ideas into profitable realities.
    For Founders, By Founders.We help ecommerce businesses grow profits.
    Top Services:
    Web Development Web Design UI/UX Design Advertising
    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Under 49 Inquire $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    TV Advertising
    Experiential Marketing
    Adtech
    B2B
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SEM Nexus

    Verified
    Startup App Experts
    SEM Nexus is an award-winning startup app agency focused on building and marketing startup mobile apps. We live, breathe, and dream startups. They are our life, our passion. Let us help you make your [...]
    Top Services:
    Mobile App Development Digital Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    New York City, New York
    Under 49 $100/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SOLV.

    Verified
    Digital Marketing & Design Agency
    With 5 years of experience, we've powered 200+ projects in 18 industries. Big names like the US Embassy, Forbes, Club Med, Viessmann, Heinemann Duty Free, and Boucheron Paris trust us with their brand [...]
    Top Services:
    Digital Marketing Advertising Social Media Marketing Graphic Design
    Kyiv, Ukraine
    Under 49 $40/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    Print Advertising
    Promotional Marketing
    Experiential Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Callbox

    Verified
    We are largest provider of sales lead generation services helping businesses increase their revenue.
    Callbox is a worldwide recognized leader in B2B Lead Generation powered by AI and human expertise, having been one of the top lead generation and appointment setting experts for the past many years. W [...]
    Top Services:
    Managed Services Event Marketing Cybersecurity Advertising
    Los Angeles, California
    500 - 999 Inquire Inquire
    Expertise
    B2B
    B2C
    DTC
    Adtech
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Digital Drew

    Verified
    An Award Winning NYC Digital Advertising Agency With Official Google Partner.
    Digital Drew SEM is a search and social media advertising agency that ensures quality and value for all of our clients. Our services include: Creating copy and targeting on platforms such as Google, F [...]
    Top Services:
    Advertising Social Media Marketing Email Marketing Web Design
    New York City, New York
    Under 49 $100/hr Under $1,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    Promotional Marketing
    B2C
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Rankings

    Verified
    Specialists in Law Firm SEO
    Rankings.io is a premier SEO agency dedicated to serving law firms. They offer specialized services tailored to the legal industry, helping firms achieve top rankings on Google and generate guaranteed [...]
    Top Services:
    SEO Digital Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    Marion, Illinois
    Under 49 $199/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    Broadcast Video Advertising
    Radio Advertising
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Azuro Digital

    Award-Winning Web Design, Development & SEO
    Get a beautiful, user-friendly, cutting-edge website for your business. As an award-winning web design agency with over 100 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviews online, we consistently exceed our clients’ expectations. [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Design Video Production WordPress Website Design Advertising
    Ottawa, Canada
    Under 49 $150/hr Inquire
    Expertise
    TV Advertising
    B2B
    B2C
    Broadcast Video Advertising
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Groove Jones

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Award-Winning AR / VR / XR / AI / WebGl Experiences
    Groove Jones is an innovative technology company that specializes in creating VR/AR software solutions for a wide range of industries, including advertising, entertainment, marketing, health, and trai [...]
    Top Services:
    VR/AR Software Development Mobile App Development Advertising
    Dallas, Texas
    Under 49 $150/hr $50,000 & Up
    Expertise
    Experiential Marketing
    B2B
    Promotional Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Favoured

    Verified
    We're Favoured, and were here to help you get more customers and boost your profits - simple as that.
    Top Services:
    eCommerce Digital Marketing CRO Advertising
    London, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $125/hr Inquire
    Expertise
    Promotional Marketing
    Experiential Marketing
    B2B
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Joseph Studios

    Verified
    Intelligence-Based Marketing | Find, Join, & Influence Your Ideal Buyers
    Joseph Studios enables you to speak to your ideal buyers online with a proven methodology for growth and success.
    Top Services:
    Social Media Marketing SEO Digital Marketing Advertising
    Atlanta, Georgia
    Under 49 $100/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    Promotional Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • IT Lands

    Verified
    Best Digital Media Marketing Agency In Town
    IT Lands is a leading digital media marketing agency based in Germany, specializing in innovative solutions for businesses worldwide.
    Top Services:
    Branding Social Media Marketing Digital Marketing Advertising
    Frankfurt, Germany
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    DTC
    B2C
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Respect Studio

    Verified
    Highlight your company
    An award-winning team of professionals who are keen on strategizing and implementing outstanding B2B Lead Generation.
    Top Services:
    Digital Marketing Advertising Content Marketing Email Marketing
    Lviv, Ukraine
    Under 49 $100/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    Promotional Marketing
    Experiential Marketing
    B2C
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • The Emms

    Verified
    Marketing On A Mission
    From logo design and branding to website development, marketing campaigns, consulting and training, our mission is to help you achieve your goals! We will create a solution that works for you depe [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Development Web Design UI/UX Design Advertising
    Toronto, Canada
    Under 49 $100/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Joy Films

    Keep Smiling
    Joy Films is one of the most prolific Film Production companies in UAE. We have a great network and the necessary resourcefulness to make anything possible.
    Top Services:
    Video Production Advertising Video Marketing
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Under 49 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Design In DC

    Verified
    A Digital Agency For The Future
    We create websites and apps that are fully customized, scalable, easy to manage, and have a creative twist. Everything we build for you at Design in DC is made with the future in mind. We are a boutiq [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Development Web Design UI/UX Design Advertising
    Washington DC, Washington DC
    50 - 99 $190/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    Expertise
    Experiential Marketing
    TV Advertising
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Channeled

    We channel brands to achieve elevated eCommerce success
    We are your direct-to-consumer marketplace and eCommerce service partner. Channeled partners with a wide variety of DTC, eCommerce focused brands, driving strategy and execution on marketplaces and DT [...]
    Top Services:
    eCommerce PPC Advertising Full-Service Digital
    Natick, Massachusetts
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SYMVOLT

    Verified
    Delivering Solutions That Matter, Inspire and Motivate
    SYMVOLT is your one-stop marketing partner focused on performance. We are here to provide you with the solution that matters to you, our method entails gaining a deep understanding of your desires, mo [...]
    Top Services:
    Digital Marketing Creative Web Design Advertising
    Wilmington, Delaware
    50 - 99 $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • GCC MARKETING

    Verified
    Web & Mobile App Design | eCommerce | Digital Agency in Dubai
    GCC Marketing is a Dubai based top Digital Agency helping businesses in Corporate Branding, Web Design, Web Development, eCommerce Stores, Web Applications Development, iOS & Android App Development, [...]
    Top Services:
    Web Design Web Development eCommerce Development Advertising
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Under 49 $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    Experiential Marketing
    Promotional Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Global Grid Agency

    Verified
    ️SinceNow__
    We create world-class digital products, brands, and websites.
    Top Services:
    Web Design Digital Marketing Branding Advertising
    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Under 49 Inquire $25,000 - $50,000
    Expertise
    B2B
    Promotional Marketing
    Experiential Marketing
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Black Propeller

    Verified
    Redefining the agency experience
    With our exceptional PPC advertising solutions, we empower businesses to dominate their markets and achieve outstanding results.
    Top Services:
    PPC Digital Marketing Social Media Marketing Advertising
    Bel Air, Maryland
    Under 49 Inquire $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Starfish

    Verified
    The brand experience is the brand.
    Starfish is an illustration, branding, visual communication, and creative communications agency founded on the philosophy that the brand experience is the brand. It is our strong belief that a brand [...]
    Top Services:
    Branding Video Production Graphic Design Advertising
    New York City, New York
    Under 49 $150/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    Expertise
    Broadcast Video Advertising
    B2B
    B2C
    Direct Mail
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Pixated

    Verified
    Specialist performance marketing and web design agency
    We help the most exciting brands unlock growth through carefully crafted paid media campaigns and digital experiences.
    Top Services:
    Web Design PPC Advertising Social Media Marketing
    London, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $95/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Need Help Selecting The Right Agency For Your Project?

    Need Help Selecting The Right Agency For Your Project?

    We can help you find verified agencies that fit your budget and other requirements within just a few days and free of charge.

Advertising Agency Hiring Guide

What is an advertising agency?

An advertising agency is a company that provides services for creating and managing advertising materials, strategies, and other forms of promotion. It aims to generate brand awareness, introduce new products, educate consumers, and boost sales.

What does an advertising company do?

An advertising company researches, plans, implements, and manages advertising strategies and measures the success of its campaigns for clients. 

Other services of advertising companies encompass: 

  • Market and competitor research 
  • Consumer behavior analysis 
  • Branding strategy 
  • Brand naming and identity 
  • Creation of advertising collaterals 
  • Selection of the suitable platform to advertise on 
  • Coordination between multiple channels of ad campaigns 
  • Integration of advertising initiatives 
  • Media buying 
  • And more

How much does it cost to hire an advertising agency?

Hiring an advertising agency can cost $50 to $150 per hour. 

However, some advertising agencies may offer flat fees or fixed prices for specific services. In these cases, you can expect additional costs, such as: 

  • Media fees: 3% to 15% of ad spend 
  • Social media management fees: $500 to $1,000 per month 
  • Services markup fees: 10% to 20% of the total cost 

Moreover, others may require a retainer fee, an upfront payment to secure their services. 

The top 50 advertising agencies on DesignRush charge an average of $120/hour. Roughly 11% of the advertising firms on DesignRush have a minimum budget of $1,000, while only 2.5% require a $50,000+ minimum budget.

How do ad agencies usually get paid?

Ad agencies commonly use these pricing models: 

  • Fixed-rate pricing: This sets an upfront fee for specific services, making it transparent and easy to understand for clients 
  • Hourly rates: This is a flat fee for each hour worked on the project 
  • Value-based pricing: In this structure, the agency determines the pricing after completing the project. The cost is based on the success and value of the final deliverables 
  • Project-based: The agency charges a fixed price for the entire project. Both parties agree on the terms and conditions, including the scope, timeline, and services, beforehand 
  • Commission-based: The agency takes a percentage of the client's media spend, usually around 15%. For example, if a client spends $20,000 on advertising, the agency receives $3,000 as payment. 
  • Retainer-based: The client pays a fixed fee at regular intervals to retain the agency's services. For example, if an agency charges $1,000 per month for social media management, the client pays this amount on an ongoing basis. 
  • Owned media: Ad agencies can sell or retain the rights to media they create for clients, generating additional income.

What is the difference between a creative agency and an advertising agency?

The difference between a creative agency and an advertising agency lies in the scope of services, strategies, goals, the workforce’s expertise, and the organizational structure. 

A creative agency has teams of designers, writers, and other creative professionals. These experts combine design and branding strategies with marketing. They collaborate to craft engaging and memorable concepts, designs, and content that establish a connection with consumers and help businesses reach their marketing goals. 

Creative agencies are mainly responsible for: 

  • Brainstorming content and branding strategies 
  • Copywriting and editing 
  • Designing visual content 
  • Producing marketing collaterals 

Meanwhile, an advertising agency plans and executes advertising and marketing campaigns to distribute information about a brand's products or services on TV, radio, print, and online. It has specialized teams for account management, media planning and buying, and more. 

With the primary objectives of promoting to intended audiences, generating sales, and increasing ROI, advertising agencies focus on: 

  • Finding new demographics to target 
  • Exploring new methods to reduce ad expenses 
  • Optimizing content for search engines 
  • Ensuring a consistent brand identity and presence on different digital media 

That said, these specialties aren’t necessarily independent of each other. Ad agencies employ creatives, and some companies offer both creative and advertising services.

Are marketing and advertising agencies the same?

No, marketing and advertising agencies are not the same. However, some marketing agencies may offer advertising services and vice versa.  

Marketing agencies focus on creating campaigns and collaborating with clients throughout the campaign's duration. Their goal is to communicate a brand and demonstrate its value to attract paying customers. 

A marketing agency houses these experts: 

  • Content strategists 
  • UI/UX designers 
  • Graphic designers 
  • Web developers and designers 
  • Videographers and photographers 
  • Video and motion graphic editors 
  • Affiliate and PPC specialists 
  • Email and influencer marketing specialists 

On the other hand, advertising agencies primarily handle the paid aspects of campaigns by utilizing partnerships with offline and online channels. They formulate strategies and execute promotions for your products, services, business, or brand on different channels, both online and offline 

An advertising agency typically comprises the following professionals: 

  • Business development manager 
  • Advertising manager 
  • Media coordinator 
  • Media planner 
  • Media buyer 
  • Brand planner and strategist 
  • Research analyst

Why should I hire an advertising agency?

You should hire an advertising agency because it offers flexible and contract-based opportunities to grow your business – all while saving resources, enhancing value creation, and successfully reaching the intended consumer base. 

More reasons for hiring an advertising agency are to: 

  • Gain access to specialized skillset 
  • Stay updated with industry trends 
  • Use the latest tools and technologies 
  • Keep your campaigns up to date 
  • Expand your strategies more easily 
  • Adapt methods based on your needs 
  • Learn from advertising experts 
  • Achieve your targets more swiftly 
  • Increase the efficiency of your employees 
  • Get an objective perspective 
  • Organize your content and priorities 
  • Utilize a holistic approach to advertising 
  • Measure growth and reach 

The success of Truvy, a wellness brand, is a testament to the advantages of hiring an advertising agency. Shortly after the brand partnered with advertising firm Big Leap, it experienced a 10,076% increase in revenue, a 6:1 return on ad spend, and a 209% boost in search impressions.

How do I choose an advertising agency for my business?

Take these steps to select the ideal advertising agency for your company: 

  1. Plan and align your short and long-term business goals with your ad campaign ideas. Identify if they're for increasing brand awareness, promoting on social channels, or aiming to boost sales, so you'll know the services you need. 
  2. Decide on the agency size you'd go for and allocate a budget. Weigh the pros and cons of hiring a large agency with impressive offers and complex processes, as well as those of a smaller specialized agency that can provide boutique experience and quicker responsiveness. See if it handles all advertising services or specialty solutions, like branding, affiliate, social, lead generation, or television, among others. Does it cater to your specific advertising needs? 
  3. Identify and create a list of potential service providers with a successful track record of driving conversions. 
  4. See if they have served brands in your business category, with similar challenges and comparable goals. 
  5. Investigate their areas of focus, the strategies they prefer to use, and how they measure a campaign's effectiveness.  
  6. Consider in which media, analytics, communication channels, reporting tools, and technologies they specialize. 
  7. Check their membership with professional associations, such as the International Advertising Association (IAA), American Advertising Federation (AAF), etc. 
  8. Examine previous advertising campaigns and learn how successful they were.  
  9. Look at their past and existing clientele and the industries they're in.  
  10. Go through the advertising services they offer that can benefit your brand. 
  11. Check reviews, references, and testimonials for credibility, management skills, and realistic promises. 
  12. Send a project brief that includes your goals, budget, timeline, etc. to the agencies that interest you. This helps you get better proposals and the best agency match. 
  13. Ask for a price estimate with a breakdown to assess if you can afford their services. Also, inquire if they accept payment based on performance and results. 
  14. Based on your findings, create a shortlist of up to five agencies and invite them for an interview.  
  15. Inquire about their advertising strategies and how they plan to personalize and adapt them to your brand. 
  16. Investigate their familiarity with your specific audience types: their needs, pain points, and demographics. It will help you understand the extent of their knowledge in reaching your target market. 
  17. Get to know exactly who will be working with your brand and what they bring to the table. Request the potential team members’ names, previous experience and campaigns, and areas of expertise.  
  18. Observe the company culture and how its employees communicate. Do they look like they are inspired, hardworking, and enjoying their time at the agency? If they align with your business’s values and communication style, chances are you’ll be able to build a positive working relationship. 
  19. Assess which candidate best fits your requirements and arrive at a decision. 

Need guidance in finding the most suitable advertising agency for your business needs? Visit our Marketplace and tell us about your project requirements. We'll go through our Directory and introduce you to two to five shortlisted candidates we deem best for you — for free.

What questions should I ask advertising agencies to find the right match?

Here are some of the questions you should ask potential advertising agencies:  

Its Relevant Background 

  1. How many years of experience do you have in advertising? What are your areas of expertise (e.g., print, video, digital, etc.)? 
  2. Have you worked with our industry or similar businesses? Can you provide references from a past client and a portfolio? 
  3. Have you created campaigns similar to what we’re looking for? What were the results? 
  4. Are you currently working with any of our competitors? Are there any potential conflicts we should be concerned about? 

Company Services and Processes 

  1. What’s your process for researching our brand, business, competitors, and consumers? 
  2. How do your team members adapt their style and modern trends to fit clients’ brands? 
  3. If an ad campaign fails to perform, how do you get it back on track? 

The Project 

  1. Who will manage our account? Who will execute the work?  
  2. If you take an entirely different advertising route from what we currently have, how will you introduce the changes? 
  3. What will the first one to three months of advertising work entail? What should we expect to achieve in that timeframe? 
  4. What tools and metrics will you use to measure our results? 
  5. How frequently will we receive progress reports?  
  6. How do you like to communicate, collaborate, and get feedback? 
  7. How much do you estimate this campaign will cost? How does the pricing for long-term partnerships differ from individual campaigns?

What are the leading advertising agencies in the U.S.?

The best advertising agencies in the U.S. are: 

  • HigherVisibility 
    • 5.0 stars on DesignRush (19 reviews) 
    • 4.5 stars on Google (123 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Warner Bros, eBay, Ziebart, BBQGuys 
  • The Bureau of Small Projects 
    • 5.0 stars on DesignRush (26 reviews)  
    • 4.9 stars on Google (22 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Stanford University, Pocari Sweat, Alcoholics Anonymous, Tim Barber Architects 
  • Grow My Ads 
    • 5.0 stars on DesignRush (36 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Juvenon, Dermavenue.com 
  • Disruptive Advertising 
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (42 reviews) 
    • 4.8 stars on Google (301 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Adobe, Diesel Power Gear, Death Wish Coffee, ConocoPhillips 
  • Design In DC 
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (18 reviews) 
    • 4.9 stars on Google (30 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Examit, Lateenz, Summit Ridge Energy, JFL Consulting 

Scroll up to read more about these agencies and be sure to explore the rest of the directory. Personalize your search and filter them based on location, team size, reviews, rates, and more.

About The Author and Expert Reviewer
Jelena Relić has hundreds of top-ranking articles and a lifestyle & culture magazine she calls The MAN. She gained valuable content and SEO experience working at Digital Circle and Neil Sahota, which she now uses to deliver top-quality B2B content at DesignRush, particularly in the creative industry.
Mariana Delgado is a renowned marketing expert with an extensive background spanning over ten years in digital marketing, sales management, search, and video advertising. She has led campaigns with a stellar 5:1 ROAS and worked at consulting giants like PwC and Deloitte. Her influence at DesignRush led to an impressive 200% growth in organic traffic, pushing the visitor numbers beyond the 500,000 mark.