Influencer marketing in Illinois is an evolving sector that links brands to relevant creators, amplifying product visibility through authentic promotion. The industry comprises agencies of varying sizes that cater to businesses looking to enhance engagement via influential voices, ranging from micro to macro-influencers. Given the growing reliance on social media among consumers, the demand for strategic partnerships between brands and influencers is on the rise. Companies utilize innovative tools and analytics to measure campaign effectiveness, and collaborations are becoming more tailored to specific audiences, marking a shift toward more personalized marketing strategies in the influencer sphere.

Illinois hosts a variety of influencer marketing companies, primarily located in Chicago. Many of them were founded in the last decade and range in size from small teams to larger agencies. Their specializations include influencer management, content creation, digital marketing, and experiential campaigns. The notable presence of companies such as Popular Pays and Mavely illustrates the focus on digital solutions that connect brands with influencers effectively. This mix of established and emerging players reflects industry resilience and adaptability in response to evolving market dynamics.

Continue reading to uncover the top influencer marketing companies in Illinois.

Top 19 Influencer Marketing Services Companies in Illinois

1. Popular Pays

• Website: popularpays.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2022
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: popular-pays

Popular Pays is an influencer marketing platform based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2013. The company specializes in connecting brands with content creators, simplifying the process of creating and managing marketing campaigns. Their services include influencer marketing campaigns, content creation, and analytics, catering to businesses across various sectors. Popular Pays has established a community of over 100,000 content creators, enabling brands to access a wide range of talent for their marketing needs. The platform has facilitated more than 6,800 successful campaigns and has distributed over $25 million to creators, showcasing its active role in the influencer marketing industry. In March 2022, Popular Pays was acquired by Lightricks, a company known for its innovative technology in content creation, which may further enhance its capabilities and offerings in the influencer marketing space.

2. Mavely

• Website: joinmavely.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $250.0M, January 2025
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: myfavoritethings

Mavely is an influencer marketing platform based in Chicago, Illinois, that connects influencers with brands to facilitate monetization through shoppable links and performance-based campaigns. Founded in 2018, Mavely focuses on empowering influencers to earn income by promoting products from over 1,200 trusted brands. The platform is designed to support 'Everyday Influencers,' allowing individuals with varying audience sizes to participate and succeed. Mavely offers tools such as SmartLinks, which optimize the purchasing process for consumers, enhancing conversion rates and tracking sales data. The company has also organized community events and webinars to foster networking and education among influencers. Recently, Mavely secured $250 million in funding, reflecting strong investor interest and confidence in its growth trajectory within the influencer marketing sector.

3. relay101

• Website: relay101.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lincolnshire, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fxpayservices

Relay101, based in Lincolnshire, Illinois, is a private digital marketing agency that specializes in influencer management and advertising solutions. Founded in 2022, the company offers a unique CRM platform designed specifically for digital agencies. This platform enables agencies to optimize their marketing strategies and manage influencer relationships more effectively. Relay101's services include influencer solutions that help brands discover and engage with the right influencers, as well as advertiser solutions that streamline campaign management and performance tracking. The company primarily serves businesses in the digital marketing sector, aiming to provide innovative tools that enhance advertising efforts. With a team of 17 employees, all based in India, Relay101 is focused on leveraging technology to improve influencer marketing outcomes for its clients.

4. Empower Media

• Website: empowermm.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, United Arab Emirates 3%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: empoweragency

Empower Media, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private advertising and marketing agency founded in 1985. The company specializes in integrated marketing solutions aimed at enhancing brand visibility and driving growth for its clients. Empower Media offers a range of services, including media planning, creative strategy, and data analytics. They work closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that address unique marketing challenges. Notably, Empower Media integrates influencer marketing into its campaigns, ensuring that brand messages are communicated effectively through trusted channels. The agency prides itself on its collaborative approach and has built a reputation for being agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the market. With a workforce of around 202 employees, Empower Media is recognized as one of America’s largest woman-owned agencies, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion within the industry.

5. Vokal

• Website: vokal.io
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, Colombia 5%, Canada 5%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: vokalio

Vokal is a Chicago-based digital marketing agency founded in 2009, specializing in revitalizing brands by merging creative, culture, and commerce. With a team of 51-200 employees, Vokal focuses on mid-market and private-equity brands, offering services that include brand storytelling, influencer marketing, and performance media. Their strategy emphasizes connecting brands to culture, which is evident in their influencer marketing initiatives. Vokal aims to enhance digital presence and drive engagement for their clients, utilizing innovative strategies and efficient execution. Their client roster includes notable names such as Red Bull and Dremel, showcasing their capability to handle significant brands in various industries.

6. Signature Marketing, Inc.

• Website: signaturemarketinginc.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Plainfield, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Bangladesh 6%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: signature-marketing-inc.

Signature Marketing, Inc., based in Plainfield, Illinois, is a family-owned marketing agency founded in 2002. The company specializes in experiential marketing and event management, providing a range of services that include event planning, staffing, and influencer marketing. They aim to enhance brand visibility and drive sales through tailored marketing solutions and successful event execution. Signature Marketing has executed over 3,500 campaigns and has worked with notable clients in various industries, particularly in the liquor sector. Their influencer marketing strategy focuses on engaging consumers through virtual samplings and collaborations with social media influencers, including nano-influencers who have smaller but highly engaged followings. This approach allows them to create authentic connections between brands and consumers. The company prides itself on its ability to deliver results, as evidenced by positive client testimonials highlighting their professionalism and effectiveness in executing marketing strategies.

7. SRW | C.A. Fortune

• Website: srw.agency
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: srw

SRW | C.A. Fortune, founded in 2015 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing and advertising agency that specializes in wellness brands. With a team of approximately 113 employees, the agency focuses on creating impactful marketing strategies that resonate with health-conscious consumers. Their services include marketing strategy, public relations, and notably, influencer marketing. SRW has successfully launched several wellness products and has helped established brands revitalize their image. Their work has garnered recognition, including awards for outstanding achievement in digital media and influencer content. The agency's commitment to connecting brands with consumers through innovative campaigns positions them as a relevant player in the influencer marketing sector.

8. The Black Sheep

• Website: theblacksheep.marketing
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $750,000, September 2016
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: theblacksheeponline

The Black Sheep is a marketing agency based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2009. The company specializes in connecting brands with college students through targeted marketing strategies. They offer a range of services, including market research, field marketing, influencer marketing, and paid advertising. The Black Sheep has developed a strong presence in the college marketing sector, boasting over 6,000 campus ambassadors and 4,000 influencers and creators. Their approach focuses on utilizing micro-influencers and TikTok creators to engage the Gen Z audience effectively. The agency has received funding of $750,000, which supports its operations and growth in the competitive marketing landscape. Their campaigns have demonstrated success in generating significant engagement and conversions for their clients, showcasing their expertise in the influencer marketing domain.

9. Fresh Content Society

• Website: freshcontentsociety.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Northfield, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fresh-content-society

Fresh Content Society, based in Northfield, Illinois, is a social media marketing agency founded in 2014. With a team of 30 professionals, the company specializes in enhancing brands' online presence through tailored strategies and content creation. Their services include social media audits, community management, analytics, and notably, influencer management. This aspect of their business focuses on connecting brands with the right influencers to amplify their message and engage target audiences effectively. Fresh Content Society has worked with a variety of clients, achieving significant results such as increased engagement and impressive return on ad spend. Their commitment to data-driven strategies and creative content production has established them as a notable entity in the social media marketing industry.

10. Current Global

• Website: currentglobal.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 40%, India 21%, United Arab Emirates 11%, Other 29%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: current-global

Current Global is a communications agency based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2011. With a workforce of approximately 189 employees, the agency specializes in integrated marketing and communication strategies across various sectors, including corporate, consumer, health, and technology. Their approach emphasizes the importance of human connection, aiming to create impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences. Current Global offers a range of services, including accessible communications, content marketing, and notably, influencer marketing. They leverage their expertise in earned, social, owned, and paid media to connect brands with their target audiences effectively. The agency is part of the Interpublic Group and operates globally, with a presence in multiple countries, enhancing their ability to execute campaigns on an international scale. Their commitment to accessibility and inclusion in communications further distinguishes them in the industry.

11. ShareASale, Owned by Awin

• Website: shareasale.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, India 6%, Germany 3%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $35.0M, January 2017
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: shareasale-com

ShareASale, established in 2000 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is an affiliate marketing platform that connects advertisers with publishers, including influencers, to promote a wide array of products and services. The company operates under the umbrella of Awin, which acquired it in 2017. ShareASale has built a robust network that includes over 30,000 merchants and 1 million publishers, generating significant sales for its clients. The platform offers various tools and solutions tailored for merchants, agencies, and affiliates, enabling them to enhance their marketing efforts and drive sales. ShareASale's focus on performance-based partnerships allows content creators and influencers to monetize their platforms effectively. The company has invested in technology to provide real-time insights and reporting, ensuring that all parties can track performance and optimize their strategies. With a strong commitment to ethical business practices, ShareASale continues to support the growth of affiliate marketing and influencer collaborations across multiple sectors.

12. Holmquist & Co.

• Website: holmquistandco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: holmquistandco

Holmquist & Co. is a Chicago-based digital marketing agency founded in 2019. With a small team of 1-10 employees, the company specializes in enhancing the online presence of businesses through various services, including influencer marketing, affiliate marketing, data analysis, and video/podcast editing. The founder, Zoe Holmquist, has a background in design and marketing, which informs the agency's approach to creating impactful digital content. Holmquist & Co. aims to invigorate brands by leveraging performance marketing channels and building strong influencer partnerships. Their work includes managing influencer campaigns and providing strategic insights to optimize marketing efforts. The agency has worked with clients across different industries, helping them grow their digital footprint and achieve measurable results.

13. Limitless Creative

• Website: limitlesscreative.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Canada 10%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: limitless-creative-co-

Limitless Creative is a Chicago-based marketing agency founded in 2013, specializing in crafting authentic brand experiences and storytelling. With a team of 40 employees, the agency offers a range of services including strategy, design, influencer marketing, content production, and customization. Their approach is rooted in deep cultural insights, allowing them to forge meaningful connections between brands and their audiences. Limitless Creative has collaborated with high-profile clients such as Nike, UCLA, and Verizon, executing projects that highlight their expertise in influencer marketing and event activation. The agency's commitment to innovative storytelling and engagement strategies positions them as a relevant player in the marketing industry, particularly in the influencer marketing sector.

14. Hamster Garage

• Website: hamstergarage.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hamstergarage

Hamster Garage is a Chicago-based marketing agency founded in 2019, specializing in performance marketing and affiliate partnerships. The agency aims to help brands launch and scale their marketing programs effectively. With a team of 36 employees, Hamster Garage has quickly made a name for itself in the industry, working with high-profile clients such as Airbnb, Uber, Canva, and Brex. Their services cover a wide range of marketing strategies, including influencer partnerships, affiliate marketing, podcasts, and content placements. In 2021, they expanded their capabilities by acquiring Swipehouse, an influencer marketplace designed to connect brands with creators. This acquisition highlights their commitment to enhancing influencer marketing efforts. Hamster Garage has achieved significant results, managing over 40,000 partner relationships and demonstrating a 300% efficiency rate in their programs. Their recent recognition at the US Partnership Awards as a top small affiliate and partner marketing agency underscores their growing influence in the marketing sector.

15. Skirt PR

• Website: skirtpr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: skirt-pr

Skirt PR is a boutique public relations agency based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2003 by CEO Adrienne Eckert Petersen. The agency specializes in enhancing brand visibility through a combination of public relations, social media management, event planning, and influencer partnerships. With a team of 11-50 employees, Skirt PR focuses primarily on clients in the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle sectors. They are known for their ability to connect brands with the right influencers, crafting campaigns that resonate with target audiences. Their services extend beyond traditional PR, incorporating innovative strategies to engage consumers and build brand awareness. Skirt PR has developed a notable reputation for creating successful initiatives that drive results and add value to their clients' brands.

16. Socialite Media

• Website: socialitemedia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: socialite-media-chi

Socialite Media is a boutique digital marketing agency based in Chicago, with additional offices in Las Vegas and Scottsdale. Founded in 2020, the agency specializes in social media management, influencer marketing, and content creation. They cater to a range of clients, from small local businesses to larger corporations, aiming to enhance their online visibility and engagement. Socialite Media is particularly known for its innovative approach to influencer marketing, focusing on micro-influencers who can create authentic connections with their audiences. The agency prides itself on supporting local businesses and empowering women in business, reflecting its core values. Their influencer marketing program, 'Restaurant Revival,' exemplifies their strategy of leveraging influencers to drive foot traffic and increase brand exposure for restaurants. With a dedicated team and a commitment to genuine engagement, Socialite Media is actively contributing to the evolution of digital marketing strategies.

17. Social Eyes

• Website: socialeyes.in
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Willow Springs, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 89%, United States (USA) 11%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: socialeyes-in

Social Eyes is a digital marketing agency based in Willow Springs, Illinois, founded in 2012. The company specializes in enhancing online presence for businesses through a variety of services, including social media management, SEO, web design, and notably, influencer marketing. With a team that operates primarily from India, Social Eyes caters to a wide range of industries, helping clients connect with their target audiences and improve brand visibility. Their influencer marketing service focuses on identifying suitable influencers for brands, ensuring that campaigns resonate authentically with audiences. This strategic approach to influencer partnerships is designed to maximize brand exposure and engagement, making Social Eyes a relevant player in the influencer marketing space.

18. Tip-Top Branding

• Website: tiptopbranding.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tip-top-branding

Tip-Top Branding is a Chicago-based branding agency founded in 2000, with a focus on empowering influencers and content creators to launch and manage their own brands. The company specializes in the beauty sector, offering a comprehensive suite of services that includes manufacturing, logistics, marketing, and strategic development. By investing in influencers, Tip-Top Branding transforms their unique online presence into profitable business ventures. They work exclusively with influencers who have a significant following, specifically those with over 500,000 followers on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. This selective approach ensures that they partner with creators who have the potential for substantial market impact. Their operational model allows influencers to focus on content creation while Tip-Top Branding manages the complexities of brand development and scaling.

19. Heron Agency

• Website: heronagency.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: heronagency

Heron Agency, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a public relations and marketing agency founded in 2000. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the agency specializes in a variety of services, including public relations, digital marketing, social media management, and event planning. They cater primarily to businesses and organizations looking to enhance their brand visibility and communication strategies. Notably, Heron Agency has been recognized as the #1 Influencer Relations Agency, highlighting their expertise in influencer marketing. Their campaigns are designed to be results-driven, focusing on return on investment (ROI) and effective engagement with target audiences. The agency prides itself on building strong relationships with media and influencers, ensuring that their clients receive quality content and impactful marketing strategies.

Influencer Marketing Services Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Popular Pays	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Corporate
Mavely	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2018	Corporate
relay101	Lincolnshire, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2022	Private
Empower Media	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1985	Private
Vokal	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Private
Signature Marketing, Inc.	Plainfield, Illinois, United States (USA)	1-10	2002	Family Owned
SRW | C.A. Fortune	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2015	Private
The Black Sheep	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2009	Venture Capital
Fresh Content Society	Northfield, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2014	Private
Current Global	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	2011	Private
ShareASale, Owned by Awin	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2000	Corporate
Holmquist & Co.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1-10	2019	Private
Limitless Creative	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Private
Hamster Garage	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2019	Private
Skirt PR	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2003	Private
Socialite Media	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2020	Private
Social Eyes	Willow Springs, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2012	Private
Tip-Top Branding	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2000	Private
Heron Agency	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2000	Private

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