The sports marketing sector in Ohio plays a crucial role in connecting athletes, brands, and fans. Companies here focus on athlete representation, event management, and brand activations, catering to various sports and demographics. As the industry evolves, businesses are increasingly leveraging data-driven strategies and digital platforms to enhance engagement and sponsorship opportunities. Noteworthy trends include a growing emphasis on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) arrangements for college athletes, and the integration of community initiatives. This vibrant marketplace fosters innovation and collaboration, paving the way for new growth avenues in the world of sports marketing.


This list features 19 sports marketing companies across Ohio, varying in size from small firms to large agencies. Founded between the 1980s and 2021, companies are strategically headquartered in cities like Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus. Each company specializes in unique aspects of sports marketing, including event management, sponsorship analytics, and merchandising. Notable entities include IMG, a significant global player, and ProCamps, focused on youth sports training. Their innovative approaches shape the industry and contribute to community engagement alongside broader national partnerships.


Continue reading to discover Ohio's top sports marketing companies.


Top 19 Sports Marketing Companies in Ohio


1. Img

  • Website: img.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 50%, United States (USA) 21%, Australia 5%, Other 24%
  • Latest funding: $7.1M, December 2020
  • Founded year: 1960
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: img

IMG, founded in 1960 and based in London, Ohio, is a prominent sports management agency that operates under the Endeavor network. The company specializes in managing athletes and fashion celebrities, organizing live events, and producing media content. IMG serves a variety of sports organizations and brands, offering strategic consulting, media rights management, and digital marketing services. Their expertise extends to creating tailored media rights packages, managing hospitality services, and developing global brand partnerships. IMG also plays a crucial role in the sports betting sector, providing official data rights and insights to sportsbooks. With a workforce of over 5,000 employees, IMG has a significant presence in the UK, USA, Australia, and other regions, showcasing their global reach and influence in the sports industry.


2. ProCamps

  • Website: procamps.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, India 3%
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: procamps-worldwide

ProCamps, founded in 1998 and based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is an event management company that specializes in sports marketing and youth sports camps. The company creates opportunities for children to learn from professional athletes through organized camps and events. ProCamps manages athlete appearances and brand activations, catering to parents and youth interested in sports development. They have collaborated with a wide array of professional athletes and coaches across major sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS. ProCamps executes more than 175 events each year, effectively delivering brand messaging to thousands of participants through various promotional channels. Their charitable arm, Kids2Camp, has provided scholarships to over 30,000 youth, showcasing their commitment to making sports accessible to all. With a dedicated team of around 67 employees, ProCamps continues to play a significant role in the sports marketing industry.


3. Topnotch Management

  • Website: topnotchmanagement.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 74%, France 9%, China 9%, Other 9%
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: topnotch-management

Topnotch Management is a private talent agency based in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 2015. The agency specializes in representing professional athletes in tennis and pickleball, providing a comprehensive suite of services tailored to enhance their clients' careers. These services include deal negotiations, sponsorship outreach, event management, and marketing support. With a team of dedicated professionals, Topnotch Management has built a selective roster of marketable athletes and has successfully managed high-profile events such as the WTA 250 tournament, 'Tennis in the Land,' and the Cleveland Open, an ATP Challenger event. Their operations extend across major cities like New York and Los Angeles, reflecting their commitment to connecting athletes with lucrative opportunities and brands. The agency's focus on event management and athlete representation positions it as a significant player in the sports marketing industry.


4. NIL Management

  • Website: nilmanagement.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: nilmanagement

NIL Management, based in Columbus, Ohio, is a management consulting firm that specializes in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for athletes and brands. Founded in 2021, the company has quickly positioned itself as a key player in the NIL sector, providing services that include business development, branding, marketing, and digital strategy. They aim to empower athletes to monetize their personal brands while assisting brands in leveraging athlete endorsements for effective promotional strategies. NIL Management represents a significant number of athletes and has established partnerships with various brands, facilitating impactful collaborations. Their focus on both college and professional sports allows them to cater to a wide range of clients, from emerging student-athletes to established professionals. The firm also maintains an active presence in the media, showcasing their involvement in securing notable NIL deals for athletes, particularly in the collegiate sports arena.


5. The Elevation Group


The Elevation Group, established in 2002 and based in Beachwood, Ohio, operates as a multifaceted company specializing in event production, sponsorship, and talent management within the sports and music industries. With a workforce of approximately 32 employees, the company has made a name for itself by providing experiential marketing services and artist management. Elevation Group has a global footprint, conducting business across the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. The company is composed of several entities, each focusing on different aspects of event management and marketing. Notably, they have been recognized for their innovative sponsorship sales and activation strategies, as well as their large-scale event execution. Their portfolio includes significant involvement in motorsport events, where they have directed sponsorship platforms for major competitions like the NASCAR Cup Series and the Indianapolis 500. Elevation Group has also been awarded for its marketing excellence, including accolades from Event Marketer and the Sports Business Journal, underscoring their impact in the sports marketing sector.


6. civitas.


Civitas, founded in 2012 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is a marketing agency that specializes in experiential marketing and advertising services. With a team of 11-50 employees, Civitas focuses on creating promotional assets and campaigns tailored for brands, particularly in the sports and retail sectors. Their client roster includes prominent organizations such as Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer, showcasing their expertise in engaging audiences through innovative marketing strategies. Civitas is known for its ability to produce a wide range of marketing materials, from digital content to event activations, and they pride themselves on being nimble and client-focused. Their work includes high-profile campaigns like the Apple TV+ subscriber acquisition for Friday Night Baseball and various activations for MLS, demonstrating their active involvement in the sports marketing industry.


7. Story of the Season

  • Website: storyoftheseason.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: storyit

Story of the Season, founded in 2017 and based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a private sports media company dedicated to supporting high school and college sports programs. With a small team of professionals who have firsthand experience in athletics, the company specializes in creating digital publications and marketing services that help teams share their stories, promote their programs, and fundraise effectively. Their flagship service, an interactive digital magazine, is published weekly during sports seasons, capturing highlights, interviews, and other engaging content. Additionally, they offer recruiting profiles that showcase athletes' achievements and facilitate connections with college coaches. Over the years, Story of the Season has served nearly 250 programs and published over 1,000 digital publications, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing the visibility and success of educational sports programs.


8. Sports Image

  • Website: sportsimageinc.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Miamisburg, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 61%, India 39%
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: sports-image

Sports Image, founded in 2002 and based in Miamisburg, Ohio, is a private sports marketing and event management company. The firm specializes in assisting schools and grassroots organizations in securing funding and equipment for their athletic programs. They offer a range of services including consultation, event management, and sponsorship facilitation. Sports Image has successfully helped over 1,000 organizations across the United States, addressing the financial challenges faced by many athletic programs. Their notable event, the Flyin' to the Hoop basketball invitational, is recognized as one of the top showcases for high school basketball in the nation, further solidifying their presence in the sports marketing industry. The company operates with a team of dedicated professionals and has expanded its reach through franchising, allowing local partners to implement their successful model nationwide.


9. The Superlative Group, Inc.

  • Website: superlativegroup.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, Canada 5%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: the-superlative-group-inc-

The Superlative Group, Inc., based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a consulting agency founded in 1994 that specializes in sponsorship analytics and sales. With a team of 23 employees, the company provides a range of services including research, valuation, sales representation, and brand consulting. Their mission is to help brands and properties optimize their sponsorship opportunities, ensuring maximum return on investment. The Superlative Group has worked with a variety of clients across sectors such as sports, entertainment, and government, demonstrating their capability to navigate complex sponsorship landscapes. Their portfolio includes notable projects like securing significant naming rights agreements for sports teams and venues, showcasing their expertise in the sports marketing field.


10. Headlines Sports

  • Website: makeheadlines.us
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Hamilton, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: headlinessportswear

Headlines Sports, founded in 2015 and based in Hamilton, Ohio, specializes in providing sports apparel, equipment, and digital branding services. With a team of 26 employees, the company primarily serves schools, sports teams, and organizations, helping them enhance their identity and performance through customized uniforms and quality equipment. Their offerings include uniforms and apparel, equipment and facilities, corporate and promotional items, and digital services. Headlines Sports emphasizes community engagement and aims to elevate the fan experience, making them a valuable partner for athletic departments and organizations looking to strengthen their brand identity. The company has established a reputation for delivering quick and affordable solutions, which has led to long-term partnerships with various clients, including NCAA Division 1 institutions.


11. G3 Marketing

  • Website: g3marketing.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: g3-procamps-group

G3 Marketing, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a marketing agency founded in 1999 that specializes in enhancing customer engagement through strategic marketing initiatives. The company focuses on three main areas: talent procurement, local activation, and meeting execution. Their talent procurement services leverage relationships with athletes, celebrities, and influencers to coordinate appearances and social media campaigns, effectively bridging the gap between fans and brands. In local activation, G3 Marketing creates unique promotional events and experiences that engage consumers in meaningful ways. Their meeting execution services ensure that both large and small events are organized efficiently, adding creative elements to enhance participant engagement. G3 Marketing's commitment to uniting fans, athletes, and brands through unforgettable experiences positions them as a notable player in the sports marketing sector.


12. Side Effects Inc


Side Effects Inc, now known as Power Ad Company, was founded in 1996 and is based in Franklin, Ohio. The company specializes in sports marketing, particularly for high school athletic programs. They provide essential equipment like scoreboards, scoring tables, and video boards, often at no cost to the schools. This is made possible through strategic advertising partnerships that create revenue opportunities. Over the years, Power Ad has given away more than $48 million in free equipment and cash to schools across the United States. Their mission is to support student athletes and improve athletic facilities, which they achieve by working closely with schools and local businesses. The company has established a strong presence in the high school sports sector, emphasizing community involvement and long-term partnerships.


13. Power Ad Company

  • Website: poweradcompany.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Franklin, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: side-effects-inc

Power Ad Company, based in Franklin, Ohio, has been operational since 1996, focusing on sports marketing specifically for high school athletics. The company specializes in providing athletic equipment such as scoring tables, scoreboards, and video boards, alongside innovative fundraising solutions. By partnering with schools and athletic facilities, Power Ad enables these institutions to enhance their sports environments while generating revenue through advertising partnerships. Over the years, Power Ad has successfully delivered more than $48 million in free equipment and cash to over 1,000 schools across the United States. Their approach not only supports athletic programs but also fosters community relationships, making them a significant player in the sports marketing industry.


14. Associated Premium Corporation


Associated Premium Corporation (APC), founded in 1982 and based in Cincinnati, Ohio, specializes in promotional products and sports marketing. With a workforce of around 20 employees, APC has built a reputation for providing custom merchandise that includes apparel, bags, and drinkware. The company has a notable history of working with major sports leagues, having collaborated with the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL to create tailored merchandise. This experience allows APC to effectively support branding initiatives for both sports organizations and corporate clients. Their services extend to promotional strategies that help clients achieve marketing goals, making them a relevant player in the sports marketing industry.


15. idegy, inc. - a Boutique Merchandise Agency

  • Website: idegy.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Vietnam 15%
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: idegy-inc.

idegy, inc. is a boutique merchandise agency based in Columbus, Ohio, founded in 1995. The company specializes in branded merchandise and design services, offering a wide range of products tailored to businesses and organizations, particularly within the sports sector. idegy focuses on creating unique merchandise that enhances brand identity and fosters customer engagement through strategic design and efficient logistics. They are recognized as a premium licensee for major sports leagues, including the NFL and NHL, and frequently collaborate with the NBA, MLB, and MLS. Their services extend beyond mere product creation; they also provide online solutions, kitting, and activation services that cater to the specific needs of their clients. idegy's commitment to quality and creativity positions them as a notable player in the sports marketing industry.


16. Your Sports Network

  • Website: ysnlive.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: East Palestine, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: yoursportsnetwork

Your Sports Network (YSN), founded in 2017 and based in East Palestine, Ohio, is a private sports media company dedicated to delivering live coverage of local sports events. With a team of approximately 23 employees, YSN serves as a vital link between local sports teams, schools, and their communities. The company provides timely updates on scores, standings, and news, ensuring that fans stay connected to their favorite teams. YSN also produces various shows that highlight local sports stories and events, further engaging the community. Their focus on local sports allows them to promote events and foster a sense of community pride, making them a significant player in the local sports media landscape.


17. Cleveland Browns

  • Website: clevelandbrowns.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Berea, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: cleveland-browns

The Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Berea, Ohio, and are part of the National Football League (NFL). Founded in 1946, the team has a rich history and a passionate fan base. The Browns are dedicated to providing entertainment through their games while also engaging with the local community. They offer a variety of merchandise and host events aimed at connecting with fans, enhancing the overall sports experience. Their marketing efforts include digital content, social media engagement, and community outreach programs, which aim to foster a strong relationship with their supporters. The organization employs a workforce of approximately 736 individuals, all focused on delivering a compelling football experience and promoting the team's brand.


18. D&D Advertising Enterprises, Inc.

  • Website: ddadvertising.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: danddadvertising

D&D Advertising Enterprises, Inc., based in Cincinnati, Ohio, has been operational since 1993. The company specializes in local advertising solutions, particularly through the distribution of promotional materials such as sports schedules, calendars, and coupon books. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, D&D Advertising aims to help small and medium-sized businesses effectively connect with local customers. Their sports schedule advertising service provides glossy posters featuring local sports teams' schedules, which are distributed for free at various locations. This approach not only promotes the businesses that advertise but also engages the community by providing valuable information about local sports events. D&D Advertising has built a reputation for customer service and satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of results-driven advertising for their clients.


19. FC Cincinnati

  • Website: fccincinnati.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
  • Latest funding: August 2015
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: fc-cincinnati

FC Cincinnati is a professional soccer club based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS). Founded in 2015, the club quickly gained traction, beginning its journey in the United Soccer League (USL) before transitioning to MLS in 2019. The team plays its home games at TQL Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2021 and has been recognized for its innovative design. FC Cincinnati offers a variety of services, including ticket sales for matches, premium hospitality options, and youth soccer camps aimed at fostering community engagement. The club has also been acknowledged for its growth and impact within the sports industry, receiving accolades such as Sports Business Journal's Best Places to Work in Sports 2023. With a focus on building a strong fan base and community connections, FC Cincinnati actively engages its supporters through various initiatives and events, making it a notable player in the sports entertainment sector.



Sports Marketing Insights: Key Companies in Ohio


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
ImgLondon, Ohio, United States (USA)1001-50001960Corporate
ProCampsCincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501998Private
Topnotch ManagementCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502015Private
NIL ManagementColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)1-102021Private
The Elevation GroupBeachwood, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502002Private
civitas.Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502012Private
Story of the SeasonCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)1-102017Private
Sports ImageMiamisburg, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502002Private
The Superlative Group, Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501994Private
Headlines SportsHamilton, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502015Private
G3 MarketingCincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501999Private
Side Effects IncFranklin, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501996Private
Power Ad CompanyFranklin, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501996Private
Associated Premium CorporationCincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501982Private
idegy, inc. - a Boutique Merchandise AgencyColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501995Private
Your Sports NetworkEast Palestine, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502017Private
Cleveland BrownsBerea, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2001946Private
D&D Advertising Enterprises, Inc.Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501993Private
FC CincinnatiCincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2002015Venture Capital


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