24 Best Branding Agencies in Chicago
The #1 Could Be Yours. We'll Review Your Agency And Rank You On This List.
To Apply:
In the vibrant and competitive landscape of Chicago's business realm, the power of a compelling brand cannot be overstated. As companies strive to stand out and make a lasting impression, the role of branding agencies becomes paramount.
These agencies are not just architects of logos and color palettes; they are the visionary storytellers shaping the digital narrative for brands. In the Windy City, many agencies have risen to the occasion, each contributing its unique flair to the art and science of branding.
In this exploration, we delve into the dynamic world of branding, unveiling the 24 best branding agencies in Chicago that have not only weathered the storms but have soared to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the city's skyline.
Our Rating Guidelines
Ranked: The Best Branding Agencies In Chicago
We've shortlisted the best ones for you and made it easy to only contact AAA or AA-rated agencies.
However, before you decide to go with anyone I recommend 2 things:
Either use our agency finder above. Use our expertise and let us help you find the ideal agency for you, from our worldwide contact database.
Or, if you are sure you'd like a local agency, set up meetings with the highly-rated agencies on this list, and test them for clear expectations from you/clear customer qualifications, clear onboarding process, clear long-term focused objectives, and clear communication.
And most important, don't fall for short-term hacks some poor quality agencies try to sell you on.
Look for long-term strategy, protecting your brand and clear timelines.
1. PKG Brand Design
Founded Year: 2004
Website: pkgbranding.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Established in 2004, PKG Brand Design stands as a paragon of branding excellence with an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency showcases unparalleled strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client objectives and resonate with target audiences.
PKG excels in the execution of campaigns across various digital channels, demonstrating mastery in both paid and organic techniques.
The agency's commitment to measurable outcomes, proactive communication, and a diverse skill set reinforces its reputation for excellence.
With its stellar performance, PKG Brand Design is a trailblazer in shaping brands with distinction. Businesses seeking a top-tier branding partner can trust PKG to deliver strategic brilliance and measurable success in the competitive realm of brand design.
Case Studies: Pending submission
2. RNO1
Founded Year: 2008
Website: rno1.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Since its inception in 2008, RNO1 has established itself as a powerhouse in the branding arena, earning an exceptional AA reputation score.
The agency is renowned for its strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client objectives and resonate with target audiences.
RNO1 excels in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, showcasing prowess in both paid and organic techniques. With a commitment to measurable outcomes, proactive communication, and a diverse skill set, RNO1 is a formidable force in the branding landscape.
RNO1 stands as a beacon of excellence, dedicated to elevating brands to unprecedented heights.
With a proven track record of strategic brilliance and effective implementation, RNO1 is the go-to choice for businesses seeking a partner to propel their brand to new levels of success.
Case Studies: Pending submission
3. Clay
Founded Year: 2013
Website: clay.global
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Founded in 2013, Clay has emerged as a trailblazer in the digital realm, earning an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client objectives and resonate with target audiences.
Clay showcases expertise in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, seamlessly integrating both paid and organic techniques.
With a strong commitment to measurable outcomes, proactive communication, and a diverse skill set, Clay stands out as a leader in the digital experience landscape.
Clay is redefining digital experiences, setting a new standard for innovation and excellence. Businesses seeking a partner for transformative digital solutions can trust Clay to deliver strategic brilliance and unparalleled execution, ensuring a dynamic and impactful presence in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Case Studies: Pending submission
4. Command N
Founded Year: 2007
Website: commandn.co
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Established in 2007, Command N has solidified its position as a leader in the digital realm, boasting an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
Command N showcases expertise in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
With a commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, Command N is a trusted partner for brands navigating the complex landscape of digital excellence.
Command N is dedicated to steering brands towards digital excellence, offering innovative solutions and transformative strategies.
For businesses seeking a reliable and visionary partner, Command N stands as a beacon of proficiency and innovation in the dynamic world of digital marketing.
Case Studies: Pending submission
5. Brainvire Infotech
Founded Year: 2000
Website: brainvire.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Since its establishment in 2000, Brainvire Infotech has been a trailblazer in the digital landscape, earning an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client objectives and resonate with target audiences.
Brainvire Infotech showcases expertise in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, seamlessly integrating both paid and organic techniques.
With a strong commitment to measurable outcomes, proactive communication, and a diverse skill set, Brainvire Infotech stands as a reliable partner for brands seeking pioneering digital solutions.
Brainvire Infotech is at the forefront of pioneering digital solutions, offering innovative strategies and transformative approaches.
Brainvire Infotech is a trustworthy and visionary ally in the dynamic world of digital marketing for businesses aspiring to navigate the digital landscape with confidence.
Case Studies: Pending submission
6. SmartSites
Founded Year: 2011
Website: smartsites.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Established in 2011, SmartSites has risen to prominence as a digital marketing powerhouse, boasting an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
SmartSites showcases expertise in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
With a strong commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, SmartSites stands as a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking brilliant solutions for digital success.
SmartSites is committed to delivering brilliant solutions for digital success, setting a high standard for innovation and excellence in the digital marketing landscape.
For businesses looking to elevate their digital presence, SmartSites proves to be a trusted and visionary ally, ensuring success in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing.
Case Studies: Pending submission
7. Codal
Founded Year: 2009
Website: codal.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Since its inception in 2009, Codal has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the digital landscape, boasting an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and captivate target audiences.
Codal showcases expertise in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
With a commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, Codal stands as a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking cutting-edge digital solutions.
Codal is dedicated to crafting innovative digital solutions, setting a new standard for creativity and excellence in the competitive realm of digital marketing.
For businesses aiming to stay ahead in the digital landscape, Codal proves to be a trustworthy and visionary ally, ensuring success through transformative and impactful strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
8. Straight North
Founded Year: 1997
Website: straightnorth.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Established in 1997, Straight North has stood the test of time as a leader in the digital marketing realm, earning an impressive AA reputation score. The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
Straight North showcases expertise in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
With a strong commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, Straight North is a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking comprehensive digital solutions.
Straight North is committed to directing businesses towards digital excellence, offering a wealth of experience and expertise in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing.
For businesses looking for a seasoned and visionary ally, Straight North stands out as a trusted partner, ensuring success through strategic brilliance and transformative digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
9. Digital Kitchen
Founded Year: 1995
Website: thisisdk.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: With a rich history dating back to 1995, Digital Kitchen has been a pioneer in crafting compelling digital stories, earning an impressive AA reputation score. The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that seamlessly align with client objectives and captivate diverse target audiences.
Digital Kitchen showcases expertise in executing campaigns across various digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results.
With a strong commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, Digital Kitchen stands as a reliable and visionary partner for brands seeking impactful and creatively crafted digital solutions.
Digital Kitchen's dedication to crafting digital stories sets it apart as an industry leader. Digital Kitchen is a trusted partner for businesses seeking a creative and results-oriented ally, ensuring success through its visionary storytelling and comprehensive digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
10. Wpromote
Founded Year: 2001
Website: wpromote.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: With a rich history dating back to 2001, Wpromote has emerged as a stalwart in the digital marketing landscape, boasting an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate effectively with diverse target audiences.
Wpromote demonstrates expertise in executing campaigns across a broad spectrum of digital channels, leveraging both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results.
With a commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, Wpromote stands as a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking impactful and transformative digital solutions.
Case Studies: Pending submission
11. ArtVersion
Founded Year: 1999
Website: artversion.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the Agency: Since its inception in 1999, ArtVersion has been a beacon of creativity and innovation in the digital marketing landscape, earning an impressive AA reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that seamlessly align with client objectives and captivate diverse target audiences.
ArtVersion showcases expertise in executing campaigns across various digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results.
With a strong commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, ArtVersion stands as a reliable and visionary partner for brands seeking impactful and artistically crafted digital solutions.
Case Studies: Pending submission
12. Design In DC
Founded Year: 2015
Website: designindc.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Founded in 2015, Design In DC is a beacon of creativity in the digital realm. Boasting an impressive A reputation score, the agency excels in delivering innovative design solutions.
With a strategic focus, Design In DC crafts digital marketing strategies that seamlessly align with client objectives and audience needs. Proficient execution of campaigns across diverse channels ensures consistent improvements in online presence and engagement.
The agency's commitment to transparent communication and measurable progress sets it apart, establishing Design In DC as a trusted partner for businesses seeking cutting-edge design solutions.
In the dynamic landscape of digital creativity, Design In DC shines as a reliable ally, consistently delivering excellence and pushing the boundaries of innovative design.
Case Studies: Pending submission
13. Propaganda Creative
Founded Year: 2000
Website: propagandacreative.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Since its establishment in 2000, Propaganda Creative has been a driving force in the world of branding, earning a solid A reputation score.
The agency is recognized for its adept strategic planning, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and captivate target audiences. Propaganda Creative excels in executing campaigns across various digital channels, showcasing a keen understanding of both paid and organic techniques.
With a focus on measurable outcomes, the agency maintains transparent communication, solidifying its reputation for excellence.
Propaganda Creative is synonymous with crafting compelling narratives, making it a trusted partner for businesses seeking impactful brand stories.
With a commitment to strategic brilliance and effective campaign execution, Propaganda Creative continues to leave an indelible mark in the competitive realm of creative branding.
Case Studies: Pending submission
14. Sunup
Founded Year: 2016
Website: studiosunup.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2016, Sunup has swiftly become a beacon of excellence in the digital marketing realm, boasting a solid A reputation score. The agency excels in strategic planning, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
Sunup is proficient in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
With a focus on measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, Sunup earns its reputation as a trusted partner for brands seeking impactful digital solutions.
Sunup is committed to illuminating brands with strategic brilliance, providing a transformative digital experience. Sunup stands out as a reliable and innovative partner for businesses looking to enhance their digital presence, ensuring success in the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape.
Case Studies: Pending submission
15. The Bureau Of Small Projects
Founded Year: 2010
Website: smallprojectsbureau.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Founded in 2010, The Bureau Of Small Projects has become a catalyst for small ventures, earning a solid A reputation score. The agency excels in strategic planning, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with the unique goals of small businesses.
The Bureau Of Small Projects demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across various digital channels, tailoring approaches to maximize impact within limited budgets.
The Bureau Of Small Projects is dedicated to elevating small ventures with impactful strategies, proving that size is no limitation to digital success.
This agency stands out as a reliable and innovative partner for small businesses aiming for significant digital impact, ensuring a noteworthy presence in the competitive digital landscape.
Case Studies: Pending submission
16. 1o8
Founded Year: 2016
Website: 1o8.agency
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2016, 1o8 has swiftly become a prominent player in the digital marketing arena, earning a solid A reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences. 1o8 demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
1o8 is dedicated to navigating brands through the complex digital landscape, offering a fresh and dynamic approach to digital marketing.
For businesses looking for a forward-thinking and results-oriented ally, 1o8 proves to be a trustworthy partner, ensuring success through strategic brilliance and transformative digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
17. Ziggle Tech
Founded Year: 2015
Website: ziggletech.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Founded in 2015, Ziggle Tech has swiftly risen as a key player in the digital landscape, earning a solid A reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
Ziggle Tech demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
Case Studies: Pending submission
18. Social Driver
Founded Year: 2011
Website: socialdriver.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Founded in 2011, Social Driver has become a driving force in the digital realm, earning a solid A reputation score. The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
Social Driver demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
Social Driver is committed to accelerating brands in the fast-paced digital landscape, offering a blend of creativity and strategic brilliance. Social Driver is a trusted partner for businesses seeking a dynamic and results-oriented ally, ensuring success through its comprehensive and forward-thinking digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
19. 97 Switch
Founded Year: 2013
Website: 97switch.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2013, 97 Switch has rapidly become a notable player in the digital marketing arena, earning a solid A reputation score. The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with target audiences.
97 Switch demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal results.
Also, 97 Switch stands as a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking impactful and transformative digital solutions.
97 Switch is dedicated to navigating brands toward digital success with precision, offering a strategic and results-oriented approach.
For businesses seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking ally, 97 Switch proves to be a trusted partner, ensuring success through its comprehensive and tailored digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
20. Clear Digital
Founded Year: 2017
Website: cleardigital.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2017, Clear Digital has quickly become synonymous with transparency and excellence in the digital marketing landscape, earning a solid A reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate effectively with target audiences.
Clear Digital demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across diverse digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results.
With a commitment to transparent communication, client collaboration, and a diverse skill set, Clear Digital stands as a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking impactful and straightforward digital solutions.
Case Studies: Pending submission
21. Catalyst Marketing Agency
Founded Year: 2014
Website: catalystmarketingagency.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2014, Catalyst Marketing Agency has become a catalyst for success in the dynamic digital marketing landscape, earning a solid A reputation score. The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and captivate diverse target audiences.
Catalyst Marketing Agency demonstrates expertise in executing campaigns across various digital channels, utilizing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results.
Case Studies: Pending submission
22. CTS
Founded Year: 2010
Website: chicagotechsolution.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2010, CTS has positioned itself as a key player in the digital marketing landscape, earning a solid A reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that seamlessly align with client goals and resonate with diverse target audiences.
CTS demonstrates expertise in executing campaigns across various digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results. With a commitment to measurable outcomes, transparent communication, and a diverse skill set, CTS stands as a reliable and innovative partner for brands seeking impactful and transformative digital solutions.
CTS is dedicated to connecting brands through strategic excellence, offering a tailored and results-oriented approach.
CTS is a trusted partner for businesses seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking ally, ensuring success through its comprehensive and visionary digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
23. EightySeven
Founded Year: 2013
Website: madebyeightyseven.com
Reputation Score: A
About the Agency: Established in 2013, EightySeven has emerged as a prominent player in the digital marketing landscape, earning a solid A reputation score.
The agency excels in strategic proficiency, consistently developing digital marketing strategies that align seamlessly with client goals and resonate with diverse target audiences.
EightySeven demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns across various digital channels, employing both paid and organic techniques to achieve optimal and measurable results.
EightySeven is committed to navigating digital frontiers with precision, offering a strategic and results-oriented approach. For businesses seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking ally, EightySeven proves to be a trusted partner, ensuring success through its comprehensive and tailored digital strategies.
Case Studies: Pending submission
24. SBO Buzz
Founded Year: 2015
Website: sbobuzz.com
Reputation Score: B
About the Agency: Established in 2015, SBO Buzz has carved its niche in the digital marketing landscape, earning a satisfactory B reputation score. The agency showcases competence in strategic planning, creating fundamental digital marketing plans that address client objectives.
SBO Buzz demonstrates proficiency in executing campaigns, resulting in modest online visibility and engagement improvements.
While presenting evidence of incremental changes in performance metrics, the agency communicates periodically, sharing basic progress reports without extensive analysis. With a focus on meeting basic expectations, SBO Buzz caters to clients seeking reliable and fundamental digital marketing services.
SBO Buzz, with its focus on fundamental strategies, serves as a reliable choice for businesses seeking straightforward and effective digital marketing solutions. While not aiming for the highest creativity, the agency provides satisfactory services meeting the basic expectations of clients in the competitive digital landscape.
Case Studies: Pending submission
Conclusion
In the city that pulses energy and innovation, Chicago's branding agencies are the unsung heroes behind the visual identities and digital footprints of large and small businesses.
As we conclude our journey through the 24 best branding agencies, it becomes evident that these agencies are not just creators; they are the architects of dreams, the weavers of narratives, and the custodians of brand legacies.
Whether it's the strategic brilliance of Wpromote, the creative excellence of ArtVersion, or the precision of EightySeven, each agency contributes to the rich tapestry that defines Chicago's business landscape.
In the ever-evolving digital era, where first impressions matter more than ever, these branding agencies stand as beacons, guiding businesses towards success, recognition, and a lasting place in the hearts of their audiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What services do branding agencies in Chicago typically offer?
Branding agencies in Chicago offer a range of services, including brand strategy development, logo design, website development, digital marketing, content creation, and overall brand management.
Understanding the comprehensive services these agencies provide is crucial for businesses looking to enhance their brand presence.
2. How do Chicago-based branding agencies tailor their strategies for local businesses?
Local market dynamics play a crucial role in shaping effective branding strategies. Businesses may wonder how Chicago-based agencies adapt their approaches to resonate with the unique characteristics and preferences of the local audience.
Exploring this aspect provides valuable insights for businesses seeking a strong local brand presence.
3. What industries do the top branding agencies in Chicago specialize in?
Different branding agencies often specialize in specific industries, such as technology, healthcare, finance, or retail.
Understanding the industries in which these agencies excel can guide businesses in selecting a partner with relevant experience and expertise for their particular market.
4. How do branding agencies measure the success of their campaigns?
Measuring the impact and success of branding campaigns is crucial for businesses looking for a return on their investment.
Questions regarding key performance indicators (KPIs), analytics tools, and the methodology used by branding agencies to track success provide clarity on the effectiveness of their strategies.
5. What sets Chicago's branding agencies apart from agencies in other cities?
Chicago has a unique business ecosystem, cultural diversity, and a distinctive market. Understanding how local agencies leverage these aspects to create compelling brands sets the stage for businesses to choose an agency aligned with their values and objectives.