Marcus Richards
In our ongoing series exploring US startups, we’re focusing on Chicago, a central hub for technological innovation and growth. Despite the turbulent economic times we’re in due to the global pandemic, remarkable startup companies with an inception in 2020 or later are breaking new ground in the advertising industry. These startups are not only thriving in a challenging business landscape but are introducing innovative strategies, revolutionizing the future of digital advertising and content marketing.
Chicago’s burgeoning advertising sector is becoming increasingly influential, owing to a rich diversity of talent, ideas, and innovation. Moreover, proximity to traditional corporations and access to global markets have made the city a significant location for advertising startups. Here, we’ll highlight some of the champions propelling the industry forward, introducing fresh perspectives and solutions.
Let’s dive into this dynamic landscape of Chicago-based advertising startups that are shaping the future of advertising and making their mark in the industry.
Visual Feeder
Founded by Eddie and Yaxi Yang, Visual Feeder lights up city streets with full-motion advertising on high-traffic commercial retail locations. With exclusive sites in flagship stores and shopping malls, this startup focuses on creating immersive experiences that target specific audiences. Facebook | Linkedin
Huvii
Huvii, founded by Matic Rupnik, boosts revenue for bars and increases customer acquisition and retention. This entertainment platform excels in engaging customers with premium games that can be played using phones as controllers. The startup allows bars and FMCG partners to organize leagues and championships, enhancing customer engagement. Facebook | Linkedin
Pondir
Pondir is an agency service startup that promises to enhance social media marketing services with its cutting-edge software products. It integrates Facebook advertising monitoring with the Shopify account to deliver integrated results. Its primary expertise lies in digital scanning and advertising services. Linkedin
Screenverse Media
Screenverse Media is a notable entity in the industry with a strong focus on content marketing and social media strategies. Although a relatively new player, it has already made its mark. Linkedin
once + more
Founded by Samantha Ogborn, once + more is committed to helping businesses grow through conversion-focused tactics and strategic marketing. The startup specializes in SEO strategy, email marketing, paid strategy, general marketing optimizations, product page and conversion rate optimization, and copywriting. Facebook | Linkedin
AGH Digital PR
AGH Digital PR stands out as a leader in the fields of digital marketing and public relations. Through its innovative strategies, AGH Digital PR paves the way for brands to make their mark digitally. Facebook | Linkedin
Jump Seat
Jump Seat delves into the realms of advertising, professional services, and training. Their unique approach marries the creative aspects of advertising with strategic insights, producing a perfect blend of effectiveness and ingenuity. Linkedin
MediaBrain
MediaBrain, founded by Nick Ellis, specializes in unifying large and varied datasets to facilitate agencies, advertisers, and media companies in deriving actionable insights. Their cloud-based solutions comply with GDPR and CCPA rules while maintaining governance and security. Linkedin
Smallwave Marketing
Audrey Hutnick and Katy Oakley co-founded Smallwave Marketing to help brands connect with potential customers through digital channels, delivering comprehensive brand promises. The startup effectively utilizes the internet and other forms of digital communication to share relevant articles, videos, podcasts, and other media. Facebook | Linkedin
The Scratch Collective
Amy Hoffar Cheronis and Melissa Pins founded The Scratch Collective, a startup that utilizes social media to create a robust communications infrastructure. The company ensures high-quality advertising and brand marketing across platforms. Facebook | Linkedin
No Walls Studio
Founded by Jake Rynar, No Walls Studio helps real estate developers realize hospitality and placemaking brands through in-depth research, planning, marketing, and brand design. With strong emphasis on lifestyle and customer-centered design, they revolutionize the way spaces are created and marketed. Facebook | Linkedin
In summary, Chicago’s advertising industry is actively fostering a new wave of startups. With their innovative methodologies and disruptive technologies, these companies are shaping the advertising landscape’s future and, by extension, that of the global market.
