The advertising industry in Minnesota thrives on innovation and creativity, offering a plethora of services designed to enhance brand engagement and visibility. Companies in this sector range from small, agile startups to well-established agencies, all contributing to captivating marketing strategies encompassing digital, print, and television media. Notably, the industry is embracing data-driven approaches to refine advertising efforts, making campaigns ever more targeted and effective. As technology evolves, so does the landscape of advertising, prompting firms to adopt emerging tools such as artificial intelligence and analytics to better connect with audiences. Minnesota's advertising scene is as dynamic as its culture.


This list features 20 distinctive advertising companies located in Minnesota, showcasing a mix of established firms and newer agencies. Companies vary in size, from boutique studios with fewer than 50 employees to sizable agencies with over 500 personnel. They were founded between 1932 and 2014, reflecting a broad spectrum of experience and innovation. Many of these agencies specialize in areas such as strategic branding, media planning, and creative content production, illustrating their commitment to effective marketing solutions tailored to diverse client needs. The companies listed reflect a rich tapestry of talent and expertise, from Minneapolis to Duluth.


Continue reading to discover the top advertising companies in Minnesota.


Top 20 Advertising Companies Companies in Minnesota


1. Martin Williams Advertising

  • Website: martinwilliams.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: martin-williams

Martin Williams Advertising, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a private advertising agency founded in 1947. With a team of approximately 78 employees, the agency specializes in creating impactful marketing campaigns tailored for various brands, primarily in the consumer goods sector. Their service offerings include brand strategy, media planning, creative development, and production across multiple formats such as digital, print, and video. The agency prides itself on a data-driven approach to creativity, aiming to enhance customer experiences and drive brand momentum. Their client roster features well-known names like Cheerios and Totino's, showcasing their ability to execute campaigns that resonate with audiences. Martin Williams Advertising emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity within their culture, which they believe fuels creativity and innovation in their work.


2. Marketing Architects

  • Website: marketingarchitects.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Ghana 3%
  • Founded year: 1997
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: marketingarchitects

Marketing Architects, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a private advertising agency founded in 1997. With a workforce of approximately 184 employees, the company specializes in TV advertising, providing a full suite of services designed to enhance brand visibility and drive sales. Their offerings include strategy development, creative services, media buying, and TV measurement, all under an all-inclusive model that simplifies the billing process for clients. This model allows clients to receive a single bill for media while Marketing Architects covers all other necessary costs, ensuring accountability and alignment of interests. The agency prides itself on its data-driven approach, utilizing proprietary technology to optimize media buying across both linear and streaming platforms. Their commitment to transparency and measurable outcomes has garnered positive feedback from clients, who appreciate the seamless integration of strategy and creative execution. Marketing Architects has not reported any external funding, indicating a self-sustained growth trajectory since its inception.


3. Scales Advertising

  • Website: scalesadvertising.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1972
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: scales-advertising

Scales Advertising, based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a private advertising agency that has been operational since 1972. With a team of 36 employees, the agency focuses on marketing and branding services tailored for businesses looking to enhance their market presence. Scales offers a range of solutions, including brand strategy, digital marketing, print advertising, and photography. Their in-house photography studio, established in the late 1980s, allows them to produce high-quality imagery that complements their advertising efforts. The agency has worked with a variety of clients, including notable names like YETI Coolers and 3M, showcasing their ability to craft compelling brand narratives and effective marketing strategies. Scales Advertising is committed to helping brands communicate their unique stories and connect with their target audiences.


4. Rise and Shine and Partners


Rise and Shine and Partners is a private branding and advertising agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 2007. With a team of approximately 96 employees, the agency specializes in strategic brand navigation and creative solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. Their service offerings include brand strategies, advertising campaigns, and digital marketing, all aimed at helping clients effectively engage their target audiences and tackle marketing challenges. The agency has built a reputation for its commitment to quality and creativity, earning accolades such as the 4A’s 'Best Small Agency in the U.S.' and multiple awards at the Cannes Film Festival. Their work has been recognized for its effectiveness, as evidenced by Gold Effie Awards. Rise and Shine and Partners has a strong focus on collaboration and innovation, making them a notable player in the advertising industry.


5. Carmichael Lynch

  • Website: carmichaellynch.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1962
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: carmichael-lynch

Carmichael Lynch is a creative agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1962. With a workforce of approximately 353 employees, the agency specializes in advertising and marketing services. Their offerings include brand planning, public relations, and creative content production, aimed at enhancing brand visibility and consumer engagement. Carmichael Lynch serves a variety of clients across multiple sectors, demonstrating their adaptability and expertise in the field. The agency has garnered recognition for its innovative campaigns, particularly in the automotive sector with Subaru, and has been acknowledged as one of Ad Age's Best Places to Work multiple times. Their in-house content studio and focus on integrated marketing strategies reflect a commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.


6. catchfire

  • Website: catchfire.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: catchfire

catchfire is a Minneapolis-based advertising agency that prides itself on building momentum behind brands. Founded in 2007, the agency combines unconventional thinking with speed and research to create significant action for its clients. catchfire offers a wide array of services, including television and radio advertising, collateral design, identity creation, interactive media, and strategic planning. Their client base primarily consists of businesses seeking to enhance their market effectiveness and brand presence. The agency's commitment to innovative and impactful marketing strategies positions it as a relevant player in the advertising industry, catering to both traditional and digital needs.


7. Solve

  • Website: solve-ideas.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: solve-branding-and-advertising

Solve is an advertising and branding agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 2011. With a team of 51-200 employees, the agency prides itself on its independence and agility, allowing it to provide tailored solutions for its clients. Solve specializes in creative marketing strategies, media planning, and content production, focusing on innovative campaigns that resonate with target audiences. The agency has worked with a variety of clients, including well-known brands like Porsche, Sunoco, and Bell's Brewery, showcasing its ability to handle diverse projects across different sectors. Solve has also been recognized as a two-time Ad Age Small Agency of the Year, underscoring its impact in the advertising industry. Their commitment to social initiatives, such as Project Pipeline, reflects a dedication to fostering diversity within the advertising field. Overall, Solve combines creativity with strategic thinking to enhance brand visibility and engagement.


8. Periscope

  • Website: periscope.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Latest funding: November 2018
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: periscope

Periscope, now operating under the name Betty, is a creative agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Founded in 1994, the agency specializes in branding, advertising, and content creation, catering to businesses seeking to improve their marketing strategies. Betty prides itself on delivering innovative and effective solutions that engage audiences and drive results. The agency has worked with a variety of clients, including CLR Brands and Raw Sugar Living, developing campaigns that highlight the unique qualities of these brands. With a team of skilled strategists, creatives, and content makers, Betty aims to provide high-quality services that meet the evolving needs of its clients in a competitive market.


9. Fast Horse

  • Website: fasthorseinc.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: fast-horse

Fast Horse is a Minneapolis-based creative agency that specializes in integrated marketing communications. Established in 2001, the agency has grown to a team of 11-50 employees, focusing on a range of services that include strategy, creative design, media relations, and experiential marketing. Fast Horse has worked with a variety of clients across different industries, including well-known brands like Heineken, Audi, and General Mills. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and integration, ensuring that all campaign elements work together to achieve maximum effectiveness. The agency has received numerous accolades for its work, reflecting its commitment to creativity and strategic insight. Fast Horse operates from a modern headquarters designed to foster teamwork and innovation, further enhancing its ability to deliver impactful marketing solutions.


10. Giant

  • Website: giantvoices.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Duluth, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: giant-voices-inc-

Giant Voices, based in Duluth, Minnesota, is a marketing agency founded in 2014. With a team of 31 employees, the company focuses on strategic marketing and advertising services aimed at driving growth for its clients. Their offerings include branding, public relations, web development, and lead generation, catering to a variety of sectors such as technology, tourism, and manufacturing. Giant Voices prides itself on its analytical and creative approach, helping clients define and achieve their business ambitions. The agency has developed a reputation for delivering results through customized marketing strategies, making it a notable player in the advertising industry.


11. Bbdo Mw

  • Website: bbdompls.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1932
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: bbdomw

BBDO MW, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is an advertising agency that has been crafting marketing campaigns since 1932. As the first outpost of the BBDO network, they have built a reputation for delivering creative services that enhance brand visibility and engage consumers. The agency works with a variety of clients, providing tailored advertising solutions that resonate with target audiences. Their portfolio showcases a range of innovative projects, including memorable campaigns like the recent 'This is Duo-licious' for Planters® Nut Duos, which creatively highlights product features through engaging storytelling. With a team of strategic thinkers and creative minds, BBDO MW continues to make its mark in the advertising industry, focusing on impactful and effective marketing strategies.


12. Pocket Hercules

  • Website: pockethercules.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minnetonka, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: pocket-hercules

Pocket Hercules is an advertising agency and public relations firm based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, founded in 2005. With a team of 17 employees, the agency specializes in branding, digital marketing, and media relations. They have built a reputation for crafting compelling narratives and engaging campaigns that resonate with target audiences. Their work spans various industries, and they have collaborated with well-known brands such as Harley-Davidson, Toro, and Delta Dental. Pocket Hercules prides itself on its creative problem-solving abilities, offering services that include print and broadcast advertising, social media management, and public relations. The agency has also ventured into product creation, exemplified by their launch of Lakemaid Beer, which gained significant media attention during the 2015 Super Bowl. This blend of creativity and strategic execution positions Pocket Hercules as a noteworthy player in the advertising industry.


13. Media Bridge Advertising


Media Bridge Advertising, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a private advertising agency founded in 2010. With a team of 11-50 employees, the agency specializes in marketing and media services, offering solutions that include consumer research, creative services, and data analytics. Their mission revolves around enhancing brand visibility and driving sales for their clients through tailored advertising campaigns. Media Bridge has built a reputation for its 'care ethic,' which prioritizes the needs and growth of its business partners. This philosophy has led to significant achievements, such as assisting clients in expanding their franchises and launching IPOs. The agency has also been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list multiple times, underscoring its growth and impact in the advertising industry. Media Bridge's client portfolio includes notable names like Choice Bank, NCAA, and TEDx Minneapolis, showcasing their capability to handle diverse marketing needs across various sectors.


14. Colle McVoy

  • Website: collemcvoy.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
  • Founded year: 1935
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: collemcvoy

Colle McVoy is a creative advertising agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1935. The agency specializes in crafting meaningful connections between brands and consumers through a variety of services, including brand strategy, creative campaigns, and public relations. With a workforce of approximately 318 employees, Colle McVoy has built a reputation for understanding client needs and delivering impactful marketing solutions. Their recent work includes significant projects for clients such as American Signature, where they are tasked with brand-building across multiple businesses, and La-Z-Boy, where they developed an innovative AI-powered recliner. The agency has also been recognized for its creative efforts, earning accolades like the Adweek Media Plan of the Year awards. Colle McVoy's commitment to creativity and relationship-building positions them as a relevant player in the advertising industry.


15. Yamamoto

  • Website: go-yamamoto.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Poland 2%
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: yamamoto

Yamamoto is a marketing agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1979. With a team of 11-50 employees, the agency specializes in providing creative marketing solutions aimed at enhancing brand presence and engagement. They serve a variety of clients across multiple industries, helping businesses improve their marketing efforts through innovative strategies. Yamamoto's work includes notable projects, such as a recent partnership with Lineage for a Times Square activation, which highlights their capability to execute impactful marketing campaigns. The agency has also been recognized as a 'Best Place to Work', reflecting a strong internal culture that likely fosters creativity and collaboration among its employees.


16. Friends & Neighbors

  • Website: friends-neighbors.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: friends-%26-neighbors

Friends & Neighbors is a family-owned marketing agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 2012. With a team of 30 employees, they focus on branding and creative development, offering services that include business strategy, media planning, and content creation. Their approach is rooted in 'Brand Anthropology,' which emphasizes understanding the cultural and emotional connections between brands and their audiences. They have successfully executed campaigns for a variety of clients, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, and nonprofits. Their work includes notable projects like the COVID+Flu Campaign for the Minnesota Department of Health and the 'Dear Minnesota' campaign for the University of Minnesota, both of which highlight their ability to engage communities and drive awareness. Friends & Neighbors has not reported any funding, indicating they operate independently without external financial backing.


17. Linnihan Foy

  • Website: linnihanfoy.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: linnihan-foy-advertising

Linnihan Foy is a marketing agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 2002. With a team of 29 employees, the agency specializes in comprehensive marketing services tailored to various industries, including automotive, gaming, and energy. They offer a wide array of services such as branding, advertising, public relations, and consulting, aimed at enhancing their clients' market presence and connecting them with their target audiences. Linnihan Foy has built a reputation for its human-to-human marketing approach, which focuses on understanding consumer behavior and crafting messages that resonate. Their portfolio includes notable clients like Morrie’s Automotive Group and Treasure Island Resort & Casino, showcasing their ability to drive results and foster long-term partnerships. The agency prides itself on its integrated marketing solutions, which allow for seamless execution of campaigns across multiple channels, ensuring that clients receive a cohesive brand experience.


18. ABdbuzz


ABdbuzz, also known as ABdigital, is a Minneapolis-based advertising agency founded in 2010. With a team of 11-50 employees, the agency specializes in brand advocacy and creative marketing solutions. Their services include advertising campaign management, creative production, and brand identity development. ABdigital emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing, aiming to engage audiences through impactful narratives rather than traditional paid media. The agency has successfully worked with a variety of clients, including well-known brands like Mazda and the Minnesota Lynx, and has generated over $50 million in earned media, showcasing their ability to create significant brand awareness. Their innovative strategies incorporate modern tools, including artificial intelligence, to enhance their creative processes and client offerings.


19. Mono

  • Website: mono-1.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Russia 2%, Saudi Arabia 2%
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: mono

Mono is an advertising agency based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 2003. With a team of 51-200 employees, Mono specializes in marketing and brand strategy, offering services that include creative content development, integrated campaigns, and strategic consulting. Their approach emphasizes simplicity and thoughtful design, aiming to solve business problems through innovative marketing solutions. Mono has worked with a range of clients across various industries, showcasing their ability to adapt and create impactful campaigns. Their notable projects include campaigns for Macy's, Bumble, and the American Red Cross, reflecting their expertise in connecting brands with audiences effectively. Mono has received recognition in the industry, including multiple awards for their creative work, further solidifying their position as a relevant player in the advertising sector.


20. Pmh

  • Website: pmhadv.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: The Bahamas 25%, Netherlands 25%, United States (USA) 25%, Other 25%
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: pmh

Peterson Milla Hooks Advertising (Pmh) is a Minneapolis-based creative agency founded in 1989. With a workforce of approximately 99 employees, Pmh specializes in advertising and marketing services tailored to the fashion, home, and beauty sectors. The agency has built a strong portfolio, collaborating with well-known brands such as Estée Lauder, Walmart, Target, and Kohl's. Their work spans various campaigns, showcasing their ability to enhance brand visibility and engage consumers effectively. Pmh prides itself on combining strategic marketing insights with creative design, aiming to elevate brands in a competitive marketplace. Their approach is characterized by a commitment to understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions that resonate with target audiences.



Advertising Companies Insights: Key Companies in Minnesota


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Martin Williams AdvertisingMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2001947Private
Marketing ArchitectsMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2001997Private
Scales AdvertisingSaint Paul, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-501972Private
Rise and Shine and PartnersMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2002007Private
Carmichael LynchMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)201-5001962Private
catchfireMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502007Private
SolveMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2002011Private
PeriscopeMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)201-5001994Corporate
Fast HorseMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502001Private
GiantDuluth, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502014Private
Bbdo MwMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2001932Private
Pocket HerculesMinnetonka, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502005Private
Media Bridge AdvertisingMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502010Private
Colle McVoyMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)201-5001935Private
YamamotoMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-501979Private
Friends & NeighborsMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502012Family Owned
Linnihan FoyMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502002Private
ABdbuzzMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-502010Private
MonoMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2002003Private
PmhMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)51-2001989Private


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