Market research companies in Virginia play a crucial role in gathering insights that help businesses understand consumer behavior, preferences, and industry trends. They leverage innovative methodologies—ranging from traditional surveys to cutting-edge digital tools—to provide actionable data. As competition increases and markets evolve, these companies focus on analytics, real-time feedback, and strategic consulting. Their services support a variety of sectors, including healthcare, technology, and finance. The industry is gradually moving towards integrating AI and automation, enhancing data collection methods and providing deeper insights that drive strategic decisions for clients.

This list features 24 market research companies based in Virginia, varying in size from small firms with under 10 employees to larger entities employing up to 500 individuals. Established between 1978 and 2018, these firms are primarily located in metropolitan hubs like Arlington, Richmond, and McLean. They specialize in areas such as consumer insights, digital ethnography, public opinion polling, and analytics, catering to a wide range of industries including healthcare, advertising, and technology.

Read on to explore the top market research companies in Virginia.

Top 24 Market Research Companies Companies in Virginia

1. D3: Designs, Data, Decisions

• Website: d3systems.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2025
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: d3-designsdatadecisions

D3: Designs, Data, Decisions, based in Tysons, Virginia, is a market research firm that has been active since 1985. The company specializes in data collection and analysis, offering services that include public opinion polling and impact evaluations. D3 Systems operates in over 125 countries, showcasing its ability to conduct research in various environments. The firm employs a collaborative team of analysts and statisticians who work closely with clients to develop tailored research designs and methodologies. Their proprietary software, Research Control Solutions (RCS), enhances their data collection capabilities, allowing for efficient and reliable data gathering even in challenging conditions. D3 Systems also invests in building local research capacities through training and support, ensuring high-quality data collection. Their commitment to transparency and rigorous quality control further strengthens their position in the market research industry.

2. Emerging Strategy

• Website: emerging-strategy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 51%, Mexico 14%, China 14%, Other 20%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: emerging-strategy

Emerging Strategy, founded in 2006 and based in McLean, Virginia, is a management consulting firm that specializes in strategic market intelligence and advisory services. The company operates as a fully remote organization with a global presence, employing a team of experts across multiple countries. Emerging Strategy focuses on providing tailored insights that help businesses make informed decisions regarding market entry, customer acquisition, and growth strategies. Their clientele includes Fortune 1000 companies, high-growth startups, and various organizations across industries such as automotive, healthcare, technology, and education. The firm is known for its ability to gather and analyze intelligence in challenging environments, particularly in emerging and frontier markets. They have been recognized in reputable publications and have received accolades for their contributions to the market research field, further solidifying their position as a relevant player in the industry.

3. BIA/Kelsey

• Website: bia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chantilly, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bia-kelsey

BIA/Kelsey, founded in 1983 and based in Chantilly, Virginia, is a consulting firm that specializes in advertising and marketing insights. The company focuses on local advertising forecasts, market analysis, and strategic advisory services tailored to various sectors. BIA/Kelsey provides businesses with the tools to optimize their advertising strategies and understand market trends through its proprietary platforms like BIA ADVantage and MAPro. These platforms deliver extensive data on local advertising revenue, enabling clients to track trends and identify revenue opportunities. BIA/Kelsey also engages in custom research and competitive intelligence, further solidifying its role as a key player in the market research industry. Their insights are particularly valuable for businesses navigating the complexities of local media and advertising, making them a trusted partner for many organizations.

4. CIG: Consumer Insights Group

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

CIG: Consumer Insights Group, based in Leesburg, Virginia, is a market research firm that has been operational since 2007. The company focuses on consumer insights and usability research, providing services that help businesses understand consumer behavior and enhance their products. CIG offers a variety of methodologies, including digital research, eye tracking, and media tracking, which are designed to yield actionable data for clients in sectors like media, entertainment, and retail. The firm prides itself on its ability to translate complex consumer data into clear, actionable insights. CIG has collaborated with prominent organizations, showcasing its expertise in improving user experiences and brand strategies. The company is committed to innovation, continuously evolving its research techniques to meet the changing demands of the market.

5. Alan Newman Research

• Website: anr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: alan-newman-research

Alan Newman Research (ANR) is a market research consulting firm based in Richmond, Virginia, founded in 1978. The company specializes in providing both qualitative and quantitative research services tailored to the specific needs of businesses and government agencies. ANR's offerings include focus groups, in-depth interviews, and specialized studies aimed at hard-to-reach audiences. With a team of experienced researchers, ANR has worked with clients across various industries, including healthcare, financial services, and consumer goods. Their commitment to developing authentic relationships with clients has led to long-term partnerships and a strong track record of delivering actionable insights. ANR is also recognized for its Richmond Focus Group Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed for conducting qualitative research. The company has been involved in significant projects, including a research contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services since 2010, showcasing their capability to handle complex research needs.

6. BioInformatics Inc.

• Website: bioinfoinc.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Germany 13%
• Latest funding: Series B, $21.0M, November 2018
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bioinformatics-llc

BioInformatics Inc., based in Arlington, Virginia, is a market research firm that specializes in the life science and diagnostic industries. Founded in 1994, the company has built a reputation for providing in-depth quantitative and qualitative research, comprehensive market reports, and consulting services. Their offerings are designed to help businesses and organizations understand market trends and customer preferences. BioInformatics Inc. has developed a proprietary community of over 55,000 scientists and biomedical researchers, which enhances their ability to gather insights and data relevant to their clients. The firm has also received significant funding, with a Series B round raising $21 million in November 2018, reflecting investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. Their expertise spans various application areas, including clinical diagnostics, chromatography, and lab automation, making them a valuable resource for companies in the life sciences sector.

7. Public Opinion Strategies

• Website: pos.org
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: public-opinion-strategies

Public Opinion Strategies (POS) is a political consulting firm based in Alexandria, Virginia, founded in 1991. The firm specializes in public opinion research, strategic communications, and market research, primarily serving political candidates, corporations, and industry associations. With a team of 39 employees, POS has conducted over 25,000 research projects and completed 11 million interviews across the United States. Their services include polling, focus groups, and qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. POS has worked with a range of clients, including nine U.S. Senators, five Governors, and numerous Members of Congress, as well as Fortune 500 companies and industry coalitions. Their expertise extends to complex public policy issues, crisis management, and corporate image research, making them a significant player in the market research industry.

8. Good Run Research & Recreation

• Website: goodrunresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: good-run-research-%26-recreation

Good Run Research & Recreation, based in Richmond, Virginia, is a market research firm that has been operational since 2010. The company specializes in providing custom qualitative and quantitative research solutions tailored to the unique needs of brands and organizations. Their mission is to help clients understand consumer behavior and preferences through various innovative methodologies, including focus groups, shopper research, and even unconventional approaches like 'sleepovers with moms' and 'bug-centered snack-alongs.' This playful yet strategic approach to research allows them to extract deeper insights from participants, fostering an environment where consumers feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. Good Run Research also operates a unique facility called The Rec Room, designed to enhance the research experience by combining traditional focus group capabilities with a casual and inviting atmosphere. This facility not only serves their research needs but is also available for corporate events, showcasing their versatility in the market. The firm has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model. Their commitment to understanding consumer needs and delivering actionable insights positions them as a relevant player in the market research industry.

9. Knowledge Excel

• Website: knowledgeexcel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Leesburg, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: knowledgexcel

Knowledge Excel, founded in 2010 and based in Leesburg, Virginia, is a private market research and analytics service provider. With a workforce of around 120 employees, predominantly located in India, the company specializes in offering a range of solutions that include survey programming, global data collection, data management, and research analysis. Knowledge Excel serves various sectors, notably retail and pharmaceuticals, helping businesses gain insights into consumer behavior and optimize their marketing strategies through data-driven approaches. Their innovative products, such as Insign AI and Optiminer, reflect their commitment to integrating technology with traditional research methods. The company has successfully delivered over 15,000 projects, indicating a robust operational history and a solid client base of more than 150 clients. Knowledge Excel's focus on enhancing decision-making through analytics and insights positions them as a relevant player in the market research industry.

10. RetailData, LLC

• Website: retaildatacareers.gr8people.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Glen Allen, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: retail-data

RetailData, LLC, founded in 1988 and based in Glen Allen, Virginia, is a data services company that specializes in pricing intelligence and retail data solutions. With a workforce of approximately 423 employees, RetailData provides essential insights that empower retailers to make informed decisions in a competitive market. Their services include comprehensive data collection and analysis, which are crucial for businesses aiming to optimize pricing strategies and enhance market positioning. RetailData has built a strong reputation over its 30-year history, serving a wide range of clients across North America. The company operates with a focus on delivering timely and accurate data insights, which are vital for retailers to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. Their commitment to employee development and community involvement further underscores their role as a significant player in the retail data sector.

11. Feedback

• Website: discoverfeedback.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Midlothian, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, India 13%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: feedback-llc

Feedback is a consulting firm based in Midlothian, Virginia, founded in 2009. The company specializes in digital ethnography and behavioral research, aiming to provide deep insights into customer behavior for businesses across multiple sectors, including healthcare and education. Utilizing their proprietary HumanFilter system, Feedback employs a team of trained data scientists with backgrounds in psychology, sociology, and anthropology to analyze consumer behavior and decision-making processes. Their approach combines advanced technology with human insights, allowing clients to understand not just what consumers do, but why they do it. Feedback has worked with a variety of notable brands, helping them optimize marketing strategies and improve customer engagement. The firm has conducted research in over 50 countries, ensuring a global perspective in their findings. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model focused on delivering value through their specialized services.

12. Science and Medicine Group

• Website: scienceandmedicinegroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: science-and-medicine-group

Science and Medicine Group, founded in 2018 and based in Arlington, Virginia, operates as a market research and consulting agency. The company serves organizations within the healthcare and life sciences sectors, offering a range of services that include custom market research, digital marketing solutions, and strategic consulting. Their mission is to empower clients by providing insights and tools that facilitate confident decision-making. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, they have established a presence in the market, focusing on areas such as analytical instruments, laboratory diagnostics, medical imaging, and private equity. Their products include market reports, databases, and digital communities, which are designed to enhance brand visibility and drive growth for their clients. Science and Medicine Group has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operational model thus far.

13. Borrell Associates Inc.

• Website: borrellassociates.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Williamsburg, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: borrell-associates-inc-

Borrell Associates Inc., based in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a data analytics and marketing consultancy that specializes in local advertising spending. Established in 2001, the company has developed a reputation for delivering insights that help businesses understand how to effectively allocate their marketing budgets. Their flagship products, Compass and Local Scope, provide clients with access to comprehensive data on advertising expenditures across various media channels. Compass tracks and forecasts ad spending for over 20 million U.S. businesses, allowing for granular analysis down to the county level. Local Scope enhances this offering by profiling business customers based on mobile phone activity, providing insights into customer demographics and competitive landscapes. Borrell Associates also conducts semi-annual surveys of local advertisers, gathering critical data on spending trends and media effectiveness. Their focus on local markets and commitment to data-driven insights make them a valuable resource for businesses looking to enhance their advertising strategies.

14. Edge Research

• Website: edgeresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: edge-research

Edge Research, based in Arlington, Virginia, is a research consulting firm that has been operational since 1997. With a team of 23 dedicated professionals, the company specializes in delivering actionable insights to clients in sectors such as education, healthcare, and financial services. Their service offerings include qualitative and quantitative research, trade-off analysis, and the development of data dashboards. Edge Research prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients ranging from large corporations to small non-profits. Their notable clients include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and various educational institutions. This involvement highlights their capability to handle significant research projects and contribute valuable insights to critical decision-making processes. As a woman-owned small business, Edge Research also emphasizes its commitment to purposeful and impactful work, making it a relevant player in the market research industry.

15. Navanti Group

• Website: navantigroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Nigeria 56%, United States (USA) 32%, Senegal 4%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $450,000, May 2015
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: navanti-group

Navanti Group, founded in 2008 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a consulting firm that specializes in analytics and research services. With a team of linguists, on-the-ground researchers, and analysts, they provide insights into economic, political, and security trends. Their services include change management, data analysis, and monitoring, which help clients make informed decisions based on real-time data. Navanti has built a reputation for delivering actionable insights through primary research and open-source analysis, particularly in regions like Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. They have a significant presence in Nigeria, the USA, and other countries, reflecting their global reach. The firm has received funding, with a notable amount of $450,000 reported in 2015, which supports their operational capabilities. Their commitment to gender sensitivity and sustainability further enhances their profile in the consulting and research industry.

16. S.I.R.

• Website: sirhq.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) 11%, Angola 6%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: southeastern-institute-of-research

S.I.R., founded in 1964 in Richmond, Virginia, operates as a consulting firm with a strong emphasis on market research, strategic planning, and communications. The company has built a reputation for delivering data-driven insights and strategies tailored to the unique needs of its clients, which include businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits. With a team of experienced professionals, S.I.R. has conducted over 15,000 quantitative and qualitative market research studies, adhering to industry standards set by the Insights Association. Their work spans various sectors, including healthcare, education, and economic development, showcasing their ability to address complex challenges and improve operations. S.I.R. prides itself on its collaborative approach, ensuring that clients are actively involved in the research process to achieve actionable results.

17. AdImpact

• Website: adimpact.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: advertising-analytics-llc

AdImpact, founded in 2017 and based in Alexandria, Virginia, is a private company that specializes in advertising intelligence solutions. The firm offers a SaaS platform that provides a unified view of local and national airings-level data across linear and streaming platforms. Their services cater to ad agencies, media firms, and political organizations, delivering real-time insights and analytics that help clients optimize their advertising strategies. AdImpact's platform includes features such as multi-channel ad detection, audience measurement, and a comprehensive ad catalog, which collectively enhance clients' understanding of market dynamics. The company also focuses on political advertising, offering tools to track campaign activity and analyze spending in real-time. With a team of 11-50 employees, AdImpact operates entirely within the United States, ensuring a concentrated approach to the American advertising market.

18. i360

• Website: i-360.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: i360-llc

i360, founded in 2009 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a private data analytics firm with a workforce of approximately 146 employees. The company provides a comprehensive suite of products aimed at both political and commercial sectors. Their services include voter and consumer data, predictive modeling, and data science solutions. i360's clientele ranges from political campaigns to various businesses, all of whom utilize their tools to enhance audience engagement and optimize marketing strategies. The company prides itself on its independently sourced data and advanced analytics capabilities, which help clients make informed decisions based on real-time insights. i360 also offers training and support to ensure clients can effectively leverage their data. With a strong emphasis on data quality and actionable insights, i360 has established itself as a significant player in the market research industry.

19. Nailbiter

• Website: nailbiter.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Herndon, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 68%, United States (USA) 29%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nailbiter

Nailbiter, based in Herndon, Virginia, is a market research company that specializes in consumer insights through a unique videometric platform. Founded in 2014, the company has grown to employ around 154 individuals, with a significant portion of its workforce located in India. Nailbiter's platform captures real-time behavioral data from consumers during their shopping experiences, whether in-store or online. This innovative approach allows brands in the consumer packaged goods sector to gain a deeper understanding of shopper behavior and decision-making processes. The company has been recognized for its contributions to the industry, being voted as one of the most innovative suppliers in recent years. Nailbiter's client base includes major CPG manufacturers, and its insights are utilized by leading retailers, showcasing its relevance and impact in the market research industry.

20. Resonate

• Website: resonate.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Reston, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2022
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: resonate-networks

Resonate, founded in 2008 and based in Reston, Virginia, is a private equity-backed data analytics firm that specializes in AI-powered consumer insights. The company offers a range of services that include data enrichment and audience activation, catering to businesses across various sectors. Resonate's proprietary AI system, known as rAI, enables them to analyze consumer behavior with remarkable precision, providing clients with a comprehensive understanding of their target audiences. With over 250 million consumer profiles and more than 15,000 attributes per profile, Resonate's data is continuously updated to reflect the evolving preferences and behaviors of consumers. Their solutions are tailored for agencies, brands, and political organizations, making them a versatile player in the market research industry. Resonate's focus on actionable insights and predictive modeling positions them as a valuable resource for companies looking to enhance their marketing strategies and drive growth.

21. Hanover Research

• Website: hanoverresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: hanover-research

Hanover Research, founded in 2003 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a private research and analytics firm that serves corporate, higher education, and K-12 education sectors. The company provides customized solutions that include market analysis, enrollment management, and academic program development. Their subscription model allows clients to receive ongoing research support, which is particularly beneficial for organizations that require continuous insights to make informed decisions. Hanover Research employs a team of over 390 analysts who utilize various methodologies, such as data analysis, surveys, and qualitative research, to deliver actionable insights. The firm has completed more than 1,000 academic programming projects annually, helping institutions optimize their offerings based on market demand. Their client base includes over 1,000 organizations, reflecting their established presence in the industry. Hanover Research's focus on data-driven decision-making and their commitment to client success positions them as a significant player in the market research sector.

22. Telogical Systems

• Website: telogicalsystems.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Manassas, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Egypt 6%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: telogical-systems

Telogical Systems, founded in 2000 and based in Manassas, Virginia, is a private data analytics and consulting firm. The company specializes in competitive intelligence solutions, offering services that include data gathering, verification, structuring, and custom software development. Their mission is to provide indispensable solutions that help companies navigate the competitive landscape and make informed decisions. With a team of over 50 employees, Telogical Systems has built a reputation for delivering timely and accurate data to clients across various industries. Their work supports strategic planning, marketing functions, sales improvement, and customer behavior forecasting. The firm has a notable track record of assisting both small to mid-sized businesses and Fortune 50 organizations, showcasing their adaptability and expertise in meeting diverse data needs.

23. Customer Care Measurement & Consulting

• Website: customercaremc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, India 23%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: customer-care-measurement-%26-consulting

Customer Care Measurement & Consulting (CCMC), founded in 2002 and based in Alexandria, Virginia, is a private consulting firm that specializes in customer experience measurement and consulting services. With a team of 26 employees, CCMC focuses on helping businesses across various sectors, including healthcare, financial services, and utilities, to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. They utilize a range of methodologies, including targeted surveys, interviews, and focus groups, to gather insights that inform strategic decisions. Their commitment to empirical data and transparency in their processes sets them apart in the industry. CCMC also engages in thought leadership through publications and speaking engagements, further solidifying their role in the customer experience and market research fields.

24. Brand Federation

• Website: brandfederation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: brandfederation

Brand Federation, founded in 2018 and based in Richmond, Virginia, is a marketing consultancy that specializes in brand strategy and marketing services. With a team of nationally recognized brand strategists, they provide comprehensive research, strategic planning, and implementation support to businesses across various industries. Their services include qualitative and quantitative consumer research, data analytics, and competitive analysis, which are essential for understanding market dynamics and consumer insights. The firm has worked with notable clients, helping them enhance their brand identity and effectiveness. Their approach combines strategic thinking with practical execution, aiming to energize brands and drive organizational growth. Brand Federation has also been involved in significant projects, such as renaming community colleges and developing branding strategies for various organizations, showcasing their commitment to impactful branding and marketing solutions.

Market Research Companies Insights: Key Companies in Virginia

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