In Illinois, sports marketing companies operate at the intersection of sports, business, and communication. This dynamic industry features agencies that promote brands, represent athletes, and produce engaging events. They offer innovative strategies that amplify fan engagement and enhance visibility for teams and sponsors alike. With the rise of digital platforms and a focus on data analysis, the industry is evolving to leverage social media and analytics for better ROI. Companies are increasingly exploring niche markets, including gaming and cultural engagements, reshaping traditional boundaries of sports marketing.


The companies listed here predominantly operate from Chicago, representing a mix of scales ranging from small firms to larger agencies. Founded over several decades, these firms specialize in various areas such as athlete representation, sponsorship consulting, and brand management. Many have carved out specific niches, focusing on diverse sports and entertainment sectors, while consistently adapting to emerging trends in market engagement. This variety illustrates the active nature of the Illinois sports marketing environment, reflecting both long-established practices and modern innovations.


Read on to discover the top sports marketing companies in Illinois.


Top 21 Sports Marketing Companies in Illinois


1. rEvolution

  • Website: revolutionworld.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, Singapore 3%, Other 3%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: revolution_2

rEvolution is a Chicago-based sports marketing agency established in 2001. With a workforce of approximately 413 employees, the company specializes in integrated marketing services, sponsorship consulting, and brand strategy. They collaborate with brands, broadcasters, and rights holders to craft campaigns that connect with fans on a personal level. Over the years, rEvolution has developed a reputation for innovative marketing solutions that enhance visibility and engagement in sports and entertainment. Their portfolio includes notable projects with brands like Continental Tire and American Family Insurance, demonstrating their capability to deliver impactful marketing strategies. The agency also operates several specialized divisions, such as REV/XP for gaming and esports, and rEv Youth, focusing on youth marketing. This multifaceted approach allows rEvolution to cater to a wide range of clients and industries, reinforcing their position in the sports marketing sector.


2. Priority Sports & Entertainment


Priority Sports & Entertainment, founded in 1985 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private sports management agency that specializes in representing professional athletes in football and basketball. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including contract negotiations, draft preparation, and marketing strategies aimed at enhancing athletes' market value. With a dedicated team, Priority Sports has negotiated over $3 billion in NBA contracts and $1.5 billion in NFL contracts, showcasing their expertise in securing lucrative deals for their clients. They also provide support in the evolving NIL landscape, helping athletes monetize their personal brands. Their commitment to client success extends beyond sports, as they encourage athletes to engage with their communities and build positive public images through effective public relations strategies.


3. Brand B Sports

  • Website: brandbsports.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: brand-b-sports

Brand B Sports, founded in 2010 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a sports marketing agency that specializes in brand management and corporate social impact. With a team that boasts over three decades of experience, they assist professional athletes in enhancing their personal brands through tailored strategies that include endorsements, philanthropic campaigns, and strategic partnerships. Their clientele spans various sports, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, NASCAR, and NHL, showcasing their ability to navigate the complexities of different sports markets. The agency emphasizes a personal touch in their mentorship, ensuring that each athlete's interests are represented effectively. Brand B Sports also engages with corporate clients to bridge the gap between social impact and consumer engagement, reflecting a modern approach to sports marketing that prioritizes authenticity and community involvement.


4. Libero Sports

  • Website: liberosports.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Italy 60%, India 20%, Argentina 20%
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: libero-sports

Libero Sports, founded in 2006 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is a sports management agency that specializes in professional athlete representation and corporate consulting, particularly within the football industry. The company operates globally, with significant offices in Delhi NCR, India, and Tokyo, Japan, and has representatives in Central America, Europe, and Korea. Libero Sports focuses on connecting various stakeholders in football, including players, coaches, team owners, sponsors, and governing bodies. They manage over 100 players from 10 different nationalities and have facilitated more than 75 player transfers across major leagues such as MLS, J.League, and the India Super League. Their strategic consulting services help organizations establish or transform their football business, while their player management services protect the rights and enhance the market value of their clients. Libero Sports has also been instrumental in developing football in emerging markets, evidenced by their case studies that include establishing India's first Premier League club and facilitating FC Barcelona's entry into India.


5. Navigate Research


Navigate Research, founded in 2006 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in sports and entertainment. With a team of 19 employees, they provide data-driven insights and strategic consulting services to a variety of clients, including brands, leagues, teams, and universities. Their expertise lies in areas such as sponsorship valuation, market research, and fan engagement. Navigate has established a reputation for delivering thorough evaluations and in-depth market research, which has been integral to the decision-making processes of their clients. They have consulted on significant sponsorship deals and have a proven track record of helping organizations optimize their marketing strategies. Their client roster includes prominent names like Anheuser-Busch, Visa, and T-Mobile, showcasing their capability to handle high-stakes projects. Navigate Research has not reported any funding, indicating they operate as a private entity without external financial backing.


6. Tsmgi

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

TSMGI, based in Deerfield, Illinois, is a sports marketing agency founded in 2000. The company specializes in promotional products, event marketing, and strategic planning tailored for sports organizations. TSMGI has developed a reputation for creating innovative solutions that enhance brand visibility and engage audiences effectively. They produce over a million pieces of branded merchandise annually and have expanded their services to include event activation, merchandise retail programs, and esports strategy. Their client roster includes various businesses and organizations within the sports and health sectors, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. TSMGI's recent initiatives, such as helping Abbott become an official partner of Real Madrid, highlight their active involvement in high-profile sports marketing campaigns.


7. Paragon Marketing Group

  • Website: paragonmarketing.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: March 2025
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: paragon-marketing-group

Paragon Marketing Group, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency that specializes in partnership marketing, event management, and experiential marketing. Founded in 1995, originally as HALO Sports and Entertainment, the company has evolved to work closely with brands and sports organizations to develop marketing strategies that engage audiences effectively. Paragon's services include content creation, influencer outreach, and youth marketing, targeting clients in the sports and consumer goods sectors. They have successfully executed numerous high-profile projects, such as the ESPN High School Showcase and partnerships with brands like Chipotle and Zenni. Their innovative approach has led to the creation of unique events and marketing platforms that enhance brand visibility and consumer engagement. With a team of around 130 employees, Paragon continues to thrive in the competitive sports marketing industry, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in every project they undertake.


8. Invicta

  • Website: invictasportsgroup.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: invictahq

Invicta Sports Group, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private sports management agency founded in 2020. With a small team of around 18 employees, Invicta specializes in representing professional athletes and coaches, offering a range of services that include contract negotiation, career management, and endorsement opportunities. The agency aims to identify elite talent and facilitate their entry into professional sports organizations worldwide. Their client roster features players and coaches primarily from soccer, indicating a focused niche within the sports industry. The founders, Enrique Cortina and Mauricio Gómez, bring over 20 years of combined experience in sports management and journalism, enhancing the agency's credibility and operational expertise. Invicta's commitment to integrity and personalized service positions it as a relevant player in the sports marketing arena.


9. The Sports Marketer

  • Website: thesportsmarketer.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: the-sports-marketer

The Sports Marketer, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency that specializes in sports and entertainment. Established in 2009, the company has developed a reputation for helping brands connect with consumers through innovative marketing strategies. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including full-service marketing, influencer programs, and event marketing. Their focus on leveraging emotional connections and loyalty is evident in their approach to creating campaigns that resonate with audiences. The agency has a strong understanding of the esports community and the influencer landscape, which allows them to tap into the interests of younger demographics. Their client base primarily consists of businesses in the marketing, sports, and entertainment sectors, seeking to enhance their engagement strategies. With a small team of dedicated professionals, The Sports Marketer aims to transform authentic emotions into powerful brand experiences, fostering organic relationships between brands and consumers.


10. Fusion Latina - Hispanic Consumer Engagement

  • Website: fusionlatina.net
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: fusionlatina-futbolmarketing

Fusion Latina - Hispanic Consumer Engagement is a sports marketing agency based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2012. The company focuses on connecting brands with the Hispanic consumer market, leveraging the popularity of soccer as a key engagement tool. With a network that spans over 2,500 soccer organizations and access to more than 8.2 million Hispanic consumers, Fusion Latina crafts tailored marketing strategies that resonate with this demographic. Their services include experiential activations and influencer partnerships, allowing brands to create meaningful connections during community soccer events. By integrating cultural insights and fostering relationships within the Hispanic community, Fusion Latina positions itself as a vital partner for brands aiming to tap into this influential market segment.


11. Navigate

  • Website: nvgt.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, Egypt 9%
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: navigate-research

Navigate is a Chicago-based consulting firm founded in 2006, specializing in sports and entertainment strategy. With a team of 45 employees, they focus on providing data-driven insights and analytics to brands, leagues, teams, and universities. Their services include sponsorship valuation, market research, and strategic consulting, which help clients optimize their marketing investments and make informed decisions. Navigate has established itself as a trusted advisor, working with high-profile clients like Anheuser-Busch and the Houston Rockets. They have been involved in significant projects, including franchise relocations and major sponsorship deals, demonstrating their capability to handle complex challenges in the sports industry. Their proprietary methodologies and extensive research have informed decisions totaling over $5 billion, showcasing their impact on the market.


12. International Sports Management, Inc.


International Sports Management, Inc. (ISM) is a sports marketing company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1997. With a workforce of approximately 105 employees, ISM specializes in providing customized premium sports hospitality, event sponsorship, and client consulting services. The company primarily serves businesses aiming to strengthen client relationships through exclusive sports events. ISM's offerings include tailored experiences at high-profile sporting events, such as the Masters in Augusta and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Their extensive portfolio covers various sports, including golf, NFL, MLB, and international events. ISM's commitment to client satisfaction is evident in their approach, which focuses on understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client. This has led to a strong reputation in the industry, with many Fortune 1000 companies relying on ISM to achieve their marketing and engagement goals.


13. Mvt

  • Website: mvtpr.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Evanston, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: mvtpr

Mvt, based in Evanston, Illinois, is a private marketing agency founded in 2006. With a small team of around 32 employees, Mvt focuses on sports and lifestyle brands, offering services that include brand strategy, public relations, internal communications, and content marketing. The agency has established itself as a trusted partner for various clients, including the BNP Paribas Open and Oracle Red Bull Racing. Their work involves creating engaging content and effective communication strategies that resonate with target audiences. Mvt's case studies highlight their ability to drive brand awareness and engagement through innovative marketing solutions, showcasing their expertise in the sports marketing field.


14. Blinkfire Analytics, Inc.

  • Website: blinkfire.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 58%, Spain 42%
  • Latest funding: Series A, $1.6M, August 2017
  • Founded year: 2013
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: blinkfire

Blinkfire Analytics, Inc., founded in 2013 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a digital analytics company that specializes in sports sponsorship intelligence. The firm provides a suite of tools designed to measure sponsorship exposure and social media performance, catering to a variety of clients including sports teams, leagues, and brands. Their offerings include real-time analytics, valuation reports, and business intelligence solutions, which empower clients to enhance their sponsorship strategies. Blinkfire's technology tracks data from numerous leagues, teams, players, and brands, providing insights that are crucial for decision-making in the sports marketing arena. The company has received venture capital funding, with a notable Series A round in 2017, which underscores investor confidence in their innovative approach to sports analytics. With a team that combines expertise in digital media and sports, Blinkfire Analytics is positioned to play a significant role in the evolving landscape of sports marketing.


15. 1o8

  • Website: 1o8.agency
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: 1o8digital

1o8 Agency, founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private marketing and creative agency with a workforce of around 33 employees. The agency specializes in providing innovative marketing solutions across various sectors, including sports, entertainment, food and beverage, and health. In the sports industry, 1o8 has worked with prominent clients like the National Women's Soccer League and Nirvana Super, showcasing their expertise in driving engagement and enhancing brand presence. Their service offerings include paid media, production, research, and eCommerce strategies, all tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients. The agency's commitment to performance is evident in their ability to deliver significant results, such as increased conversion rates and revenue for their sports clients.


16. Global Golf Management


Global Golf Management (GGM), founded in 1989 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent player in the sports event management industry, particularly in golf. The company specializes in organizing and producing golf tournaments and sporting events worldwide. With a portfolio that includes over 1,000 events across five continents, GGM has demonstrated its ability to manage both large-scale professional tournaments and smaller events. Their services cover a wide range of needs, including tournament sales, marketing, operations, and management. GGM has worked with notable events such as the Puerto Rico Open and the REX Hospital Open, showcasing their commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. They have also played a significant role in introducing professional golf to new markets, such as the Bahamas, where they hosted the first LPGA tournament. Their focus on enhancing sponsor experiences and engaging local communities further solidifies their position in the sports marketing arena.


17. Trajektory

  • Website: trajektory.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Seed, September 2022
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: trajektory

Trajektory, founded in 2019 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a sponsorship analytics company that offers a comprehensive measurement platform for sponsorships across various assets. The company serves professional sports teams, leagues, brands, and agencies, helping them optimize their sponsorship investments through advanced data analytics and reporting. Trajektory's platform aggregates and analyzes data from multiple sources, providing clients with a holistic view of their sponsorship performance. The company leverages cutting-edge AI technology to deliver insights and track performance in real-time, allowing clients to make informed decisions about their sponsorship strategies. Trajektory has gained recognition in the industry for its integrity-driven methodologies and has quickly established itself as a significant player in the sponsorship measurement space, utilized by major professional teams and brands.


18. Burns Entertainment


Burns Entertainment, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a marketing agency that has been operational since 1970. The company specializes in connecting brands with celebrities and influencers to enhance advertising and public relations initiatives. They offer a range of services, including endorsements, sponsorships, and music licensing, primarily targeting businesses in the marketing and entertainment sectors. With a team of experienced professionals, Burns Entertainment has crafted numerous partnerships that leverage pop culture to drive brand engagement. Their strategic approach combines extensive research with innovative techniques, ensuring that each campaign is tailored for maximum impact. The agency has worked with various clients, providing them with exclusive access and negotiation expertise in the entertainment and sports industries.


19. MyPlayer Athlete

  • Website: myplayerathlete.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Glenview, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: myplayer-athlete-llc

MyPlayer Athlete, based in Glenview, Illinois, is a private sports apparel company founded in 2023. The company specializes in custom merchandise and branding services tailored for athletes. MyPlayer aims to empower athletes at all levels by providing high-quality athletic gear that reflects their personal stories and connects them with their communities. The company operates an online store where consumers can purchase personalized apparel directly from athletes. With a team comprised of former collegiate athletes, MyPlayer understands the challenges athletes face in building their personal brands. They have created a platform that not only allows athletes to sell merchandise but also fosters a sense of community among athletes and their fans. MyPlayer currently represents over 800 athletes across various sports and schools, showcasing their commitment to supporting athletes in their branding efforts.


20. Royal Publishing, Inc.

  • Website: royalpublishing.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Peoria, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: royal-publishing-inc.

Royal Publishing, Inc., founded in 1979 and based in Peoria, Illinois, is a sports publishing company that specializes in creating high-quality programs and promotional materials for athletic events. The company has built a reputation for producing over 1,500 event programs annually, catering primarily to high schools and athletic associations across the United States. Their offerings include regular season programs, tournament programs, schedule posters, pocket schedules, and keepsake autograph posters. Royal Publishing emphasizes customer service and quality production, ensuring that their clients receive professional materials that enhance the experience of sporting events. The company has established partnerships with numerous state high school associations, allowing them to provide program services at state championship levels. Their involvement extends beyond high school sports to include theater productions and various community events, showcasing their commitment to supporting local organizations and enhancing community engagement through sports and the arts.


21. Prep Baseball

  • Website: prepbaseballreport.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Mccook, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Canada 7%
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: prep-baseball-report

Prep Baseball Report, founded in 2005 and based in McCook, Illinois, is a private sports scouting organization dedicated to amateur baseball. The company provides a range of services aimed at high school baseball players, including player rankings, showcases, and tournaments. These offerings are designed to help athletes gain visibility and connect with college and professional opportunities. Prep Baseball Report serves a wide audience, including athletes, coaches, and scouts, and has a significant presence in the United States and Canada. Their platform also features various events and competitions that allow players to showcase their skills, further enhancing their chances of recruitment. The organization has built a reputation for its comprehensive scouting reports and rankings, which are valuable resources for players looking to advance their baseball careers.



Sports Marketing Insights: Key Companies in Illinois


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
rEvolutionChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)201-5002001Private
Priority Sports & EntertainmentChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-501985Private
Brand B SportsChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502010Private
Libero SportsChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502006Private
Navigate ResearchChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502006Private
TsmgiDeerfield, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502000Private
Paragon Marketing GroupChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)51-2001995Corporate
InvictaChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)1-102020Private
The Sports MarketerChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)1-102009Private
Fusion Latina - Hispanic Consumer EngagementChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)51-2002012Private
NavigateChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502006Private
International Sports Management, Inc.Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)51-2001997Private
MvtEvanston, Illinois, United States (USA)1-102006Private
Blinkfire Analytics, Inc.Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)51-2002013Venture Capital
1o8Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502018Private
Global Golf ManagementChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-501989Private
TrajektoryChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502019Venture Capital
Burns EntertainmentChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-501970Corporate
MyPlayer AthleteGlenview, Illinois, United States (USA)11-502023Private
Royal Publishing, Inc.Peoria, Illinois, United States (USA)51-2001979Private
Prep BaseballMccook, Illinois, United States (USA)51-2002005Private


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