Advertising companies in Illinois play a vital role in shaping consumer perceptions and brand identities. The industry hosts a variety of agencies that target different sectors, offering a range of services from digital marketing to traditional advertising. With the ongoing shift towards online platforms, many agencies are investing in innovative strategies and technologies to capture audience attention. As the market expands, data-driven insights and personalized campaigns are becoming core to success, showcasing a trend towards more engaging and measurable advertising solutions.

This list features a selection of 20 notable advertising companies based in Illinois, with headquarters predominantly in Chicago. Ranging from larger agencies like Leo Burnett and Arc Worldwide to smaller outfits like Goda Advertising and Fortress Consulting, they vary in their employee sizes, founding years, and specialization areas. Many focus on sectors such as digital marketing, brand strategy, and public relations, pushing the creative boundaries within the advertising landscape.

Read on to discover the top advertising companies in Illinois.

Top 20 Advertising Companies Companies in Illinois

1. Leo Burnett

• Website: leoburnett.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 17%, United States (USA) 17%, Malaysia 6%, Other 59%
• Latest funding: January 2025
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: leo-burnett

Leo Burnett Worldwide, Inc. is an advertising agency based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in impactful advertising campaigns for a wide range of brands. Founded in 1935, the agency has built a reputation for its creative development, marketing consulting, and brand strategy services. With a workforce of over 7,500 employees, Leo Burnett operates globally, with a significant presence in countries like India, Malaysia, and Italy. The agency's philosophy, known as HumanKind, emphasizes the importance of understanding human behavior to create advertising that resonates with consumers. Their client roster includes well-known brands such as McDonald's, Gatorade, and Samsung, reflecting their capability to deliver effective marketing solutions. Leo Burnett has also been recognized for its creative excellence, winning numerous awards, including the Grand Prix at the 2024 Jay Chiat Awards, which underscores their ongoing impact in the advertising industry.

2. Arc Worldwide

• Website: arcww.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, India 15%, Brazil 3%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: arc-worldwide

Arc Worldwide, founded in 2004 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency that specializes in innovative advertising solutions tailored primarily for the retail sector. With a workforce of approximately 744 employees, the agency collaborates closely with clients to develop effective marketing strategies that enhance brand visibility and consumer engagement. Their unique offerings include a shoppable agency website, which allows users to interact with content in a novel way. This initiative reflects their adaptability to modern consumer behaviors and the digital landscape. Arc Worldwide has also been recognized for its leadership, with several team members honored as Women of Excellence by the Path to Purchase Institute, highlighting their influence and commitment to excellence in the marketing field.

3. Cain & Company

• Website: cain-co.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rockford, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cain-co

Cain & Company, based in Rockford, Illinois, is an advertising agency that has been operational since 1973. With a team of around 30 employees, they offer a wide array of marketing services, including branding, digital advertising, public relations, and content creation. The agency has a strong focus on building lasting relationships with clients, which they consider as partners in the marketing process. Over the years, Cain & Company has worked with a variety of businesses and organizations, ranging from small local enterprises to larger national and global clients. Their expertise spans multiple industries, particularly in industrial and manufacturing marketing, healthcare, and retail. The agency prides itself on its ability to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining a commitment to customer service and effective communication. In 2023, they celebrated their 50th anniversary, marking nearly five decades of experience in the advertising field.

4. Schafer Condon Carter (SCC)

• Website: schafercondoncarter.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: schafer-condon-carter

Schafer Condon Carter (SCC) is a Chicago-based marketing agency founded in 1989. With a team of approximately 96 employees, SCC specializes in crafting impactful advertising and branding solutions tailored to the needs of their clients. Their service offerings include brand strategy, creative content, digital marketing, and public relations. SCC has worked with a variety of notable clients, including Kellogg's and the Chicago Cubs, which highlights their expertise in enhancing brand visibility and engagement. The agency has received multiple accolades, including 'Small Agency of the Year' in 2018, 2020, and 2021, as well as Emmy Awards in 2021 and 2022 for their creative campaigns. SCC's commitment to making a measurable impact on their clients' businesses is evident in their strategic and integrated approach to marketing.

5. LKH&S Advertising

• Website: lkhs.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lkh%26s

LKH&S Advertising, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private advertising agency founded in 1992. With a team of 37 employees, the agency specializes in crafting effective advertising campaigns and marketing strategies tailored to the needs of both businesses and consumers. Their work spans various channels, including digital advertising and social media, allowing them to connect brands with their target audiences effectively. LKH&S has collaborated with a range of clients, from consumer goods to B2B sectors, helping them enhance their market presence and drive sales. Their portfolio includes projects for well-known brands such as Crayola, Leggett & Platt, and Mold Armor, demonstrating their ability to manage significant advertising initiatives. The agency prides itself on a research-driven approach, ensuring that they understand the competitive landscape and consumer behavior to create impactful advertising solutions.

6. Norton Agency

• Website: nortonadvertising.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: norton-advertising

Norton Agency, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private advertising agency that has been operational since 1987. The agency specializes in providing comprehensive marketing solutions, which include strategic planning, creative development, and digital marketing services. With a team of 11-50 employees, Norton Agency has built a reputation for helping clients effectively communicate their brand messages and engage target audiences through innovative advertising strategies. Their work spans various industries, with notable projects for clients like Alcon, Abbott Nutrition, and James Hardie. The agency emphasizes a collaborative approach, leveraging market research and consumer insights to craft campaigns that resonate with audiences. Their case studies highlight successful initiatives that have led to increased brand awareness and sales for their clients, showcasing their ability to deliver results in a competitive market.

7. Laughlin Constable

• Website: laughlin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: laughlin-constable

Laughlin Constable is a creative agency based in Chicago, Illinois, with a history dating back to 1976. The agency specializes in marketing and advertising services, focusing on crafting personal brand experiences that resonate with consumers. They combine strategic intelligence with creativity to inspire brand loyalty and engagement. Their service offerings span public relations, digital marketing, and more, catering to a variety of clients looking to enhance their brand presence. Laughlin Constable has worked with a range of organizations, from the Hoosier Lottery to Northwestern Medicine, showcasing their ability to adapt and deliver impactful campaigns. The agency's commitment to meaningful change and resilience is reflected in their approach to client partnerships and their ongoing contributions to the advertising industry.

8. DHD Chicago

• Website: dhdchicago.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: davis-harrison-dion

DHD Chicago, officially known as Davis Harrison Dion, is an advertising agency based in Chicago, Illinois. Established in 1979, the agency specializes in comprehensive marketing and creative services aimed at building brands and delivering measurable results. DHD Chicago serves a wide array of industries, including tourism and senior living, and prides itself on its personal and responsive service. The agency offers a full spectrum of services, including advertising, branding, digital marketing, media planning, and creative development. Their approach emphasizes strategic planning and innovative advertising campaigns, which have led to successful outcomes for their clients. DHD Chicago has a history of working with various organizations, showcasing their ability to adapt to different market needs and client objectives.

9. Tom, Dick & Harry

• Website: tdhcreative.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tom-dick-and-harry-advertising

Tom, Dick & Harry Creative Inc. is a family-owned advertising and creative agency located in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 2002, the agency specializes in a range of services including branding, content production, digital marketing, and public relations. With a team of 32 employees, they pride themselves on delivering high-quality, strategic advertising solutions that enhance brand visibility and engagement for their clients. Their client roster includes notable names such as Wahl Professional, Enjoy Life Foods, and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, showcasing their ability to work across various industries. The agency's philosophy centers around the concept of 'craft,' emphasizing meticulousness and creativity in their work. They have built a reputation for being a reliable partner for both startups and established brands, focusing on creating impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences.

10. 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 an advertising and marketing agency that specializes in integrated marketing solutions. Founded in 1985, the agency has built a strong presence in the industry, focusing on enhancing brand visibility and driving growth for its clients. Empower Media offers a range of services, including media planning, creative strategy, and data analytics, which are designed to address the unique marketing challenges faced by businesses. The agency prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that meet their specific needs. As America's largest woman-owned agency, Empower Media is committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional advertising, fostering innovation, and delivering measurable results. Their team consists of industry veterans who bring a wealth of experience and expertise, enabling them to navigate the complexities of modern marketing effectively. Empower Media's focus on agility and independence allows them to respond swiftly to market dynamics, ensuring that they remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing advertising landscape.

11. VivaKi

• Website: vivaki.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: China 33%, Russia 31%, India 14%, Other 21%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: vivaki

VivaKi is a marketing and communication agency based in Chicago, Illinois, and is part of the Publicis Groupe. Founded in 2008, it specializes in providing a range of services including advertising, media planning, digital marketing, and consulting. The agency aims to help businesses across various sectors effectively engage with their target audiences through innovative and tailored strategies. With a workforce of around 269 employees, VivaKi has a notable presence in international markets, with significant employee distribution in countries like China, Russia, and India. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model within the larger framework of Publicis Groupe.

12. Ten35

• Website: ten35.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: weareten35

Ten35 is a Chicago-based advertising agency founded in 2016, specializing in creative and strategic marketing services. The agency prides itself on nurturing creativity and fostering growth for its clients through innovative advertising campaigns. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Ten35 has made a name for itself by working with prominent brands such as Pepsi, Lipton, and General Mills. Their portfolio includes a range of services from strategy and digital marketing to experiential and production work. Ten35 has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity, with a significant percentage of its team being people of color and women. This focus on inclusivity, combined with their proven track record in delivering impactful campaigns, positions Ten35 as a relevant player in the advertising industry.

13. Highdive

• Website: highdiveus.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: May 2024
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: highdive-advertising

Highdive is an independent advertising agency based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2016. With a team of 51 to 200 employees, the agency specializes in crafting creative marketing campaigns tailored to various brands. Highdive emphasizes the importance of healthy client-agency relationships, believing that strong partnerships lead to better performance and innovative solutions. Their portfolio showcases work for well-known clients across multiple industries, including State Farm, Jeep, and Lay's. Highdive's campaigns often push creative boundaries, aiming to provoke thought and drive brand growth. The agency has received recognition for its impactful work, including nominations for awards that highlight their contributions to the advertising field.

14. Fortress Consulting

• Website: gofortress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fortress-consulting-group

Fortress Consulting, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency founded in 2010. With a team of 11-50 employees, they focus on branding, web design, and advertising services. Fortress Consulting aims to help businesses and organizations enhance their brand identity and marketing strategies through a collaborative approach. Their service offerings include brand strategy, logo design, web development, social media marketing, SEO, and content marketing. The agency has worked with a range of clients, from local businesses to larger corporations, showcasing their ability to adapt to various market needs. Fortress Consulting prides itself on a culture that emphasizes client success and continuous improvement, positioning itself as a partner in the growth of its clients' brands.

15. Goda Advertising

• Website: goda.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Inverness, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: goda-advertising

Goda Advertising, based in Inverness, Illinois, is a private advertising agency that has been active since 1984. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the agency specializes in a wide range of marketing solutions, including trade show exhibits, digital marketing, print advertising, and brand development. Goda Advertising serves clients from various sectors, helping them effectively connect with their target audiences through strategic and creative advertising efforts. The agency prides itself on its commitment to understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions that drive results. Their portfolio includes work for notable clients in manufacturing, electronics, and high-tech industries. Goda has also adapted to the evolving market by offering virtual exhibits, demonstrating their ability to innovate and stay relevant in a changing landscape. The agency has received recognition as a top B-to-B agency and has won awards for its marketing communications, further solidifying its reputation in the industry.

16. Leo Burnett Interactive

• Website: leoburnett.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: leo-burnett-interactive

Leo Burnett Interactive, based in Chicago, Illinois, is an advertising agency that specializes in crafting impactful marketing strategies and campaigns for a variety of brands. Founded in 2013, the agency has built a reputation for its human-centered approach, which emphasizes understanding consumer needs and behaviors. This philosophy, termed HumanKind, drives their creative process, allowing them to develop campaigns that resonate deeply with audiences. The agency has collaborated with notable clients across multiple sectors, including food and beverage giants like Kellogg's and Miller Lite, showcasing their ability to enhance brand visibility and foster consumer engagement. Their recent achievements, including multiple awards for creative excellence, further solidify their position in the advertising industry.

17. MAN Marketing

• Website: manmarketing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, United Arab Emirates 13%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: man-marketing

M.A.N. Marketing, Inc. is an advertising agency based in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, established in 1980. The firm specializes in a wide array of marketing and advertising services, including digital marketing, traditional marketing, and creative production. With a dedicated team of professionals, MAN Marketing focuses on delivering customized solutions to small and mid-sized businesses, particularly automotive dealerships. Their extensive experience in the automotive sector spans over 35 years, showcasing their ability to create effective advertising campaigns and marketing strategies. The agency prides itself on its employee-owned model, which fosters a culture of accountability and commitment to client success. They have developed a reputation for providing economical, turnkey solutions that drive sales and enhance market presence for their clients. MAN Marketing's approach combines creativity with strategic planning, ensuring that they remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing advertising environment.

18. Jones & Thomas

• Website: jonesthomas.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Decatur, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: jones-%26-thomas

Jones & Thomas is a marketing agency based in Decatur, Illinois, founded in 1980. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the agency specializes in marketing communications and advertising services. They offer a comprehensive suite of solutions, including strategic planning, brand development, and digital marketing. Their client base spans various sectors, notably healthcare and agriculture, where they help organizations enhance their brand presence and engage effectively with their audiences. The agency has a strong track record, having worked with prominent clients like Caterpillar and ADM, and has developed campaigns that integrate traditional and digital media. Their approach emphasizes customized strategies, ensuring that each client receives tailored marketing solutions that address their unique challenges and goals.

19. Queue Brand Communications

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

Queue Brand Communications, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency founded in 2000. The company specializes in brand communication and marketing solutions, offering a range of services that include design, brand activation, and content creation. With a team of experienced professionals, Queue aims to enhance brand presence and engage effectively with target audiences. They focus on both startups and established businesses, particularly in high-growth markets, which reflects their strategic positioning in the industry. Queue's innovative approach is evident in their operational model, which emphasizes marketing automation and a collaborative environment. Their initiative, Queue Lab, serves as an accelerator for disruptive startups, providing marketing services and mentorship to help these businesses scale and grow. This involvement further solidifies their role in the advertising sector, as they actively contribute to the success of emerging brands.

20. Goyk Productions

• Website: goykpro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: goyk-productions

Goyk Productions, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency founded in 2004. With a team of around 32 professionals, the agency specializes in a wide array of creative services. Their expertise spans branding, advertising, media content creation, event management, and app development. Goyk Productions aims to enhance brand visibility and engagement through innovative marketing strategies. They have worked with clients globally, showcasing their ability to deliver impactful campaigns and experiences. The agency prides itself on producing tangible returns on investment for brands, making them a relevant player in the advertising industry.

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