The startup ecosystem is booming, with over 300 million new startups emerging globally each year across all industries. But entrepreneurship is no easy feat, with over 90% of startups failing within the first three years. That’s why we’ve seen an uptick in marketing agencies offering digital marketing services tailored specifically to startups. These agencies bring years of experience and a unique skill set to the table, helping to guide and support small businesses with growth marketing strategies, case studies, and proven marketing campaigns.
As an agency that helps startups, we’ve compiled a list of the top digital marketing agencies for startups, offering services including web design, web development, content marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, search engine optimization, and content strategy.
Working with startups requires a different approach than traditional marketing efforts used by big business and enterprise companies. That’s why these agencies specialize in working with startups, understanding the ins and outs of what it takes to launch and grow a successful business.
If you’re looking to start your own business, consider partnering with one of these top startup marketing agencies. With their expertise and guidance, your startup company can get off to a great start and flourish. Whether you’re in San Francisco or anywhere else in the world, there’s an agency out there that can help your startup succeed.
Best 21 Startup Marketing Agencies in 2023
- NoGood
- Schaefer Digital
- Elevato
- Simple Tiger
- Wallaroo Media
- Seeresponse
- Stackmatix
- Firebrand
- The Branx
- Sparkpr
- HeadStart
- Single Grain
- Sociallyin
- Brolik
- Shift Paradigm
- Kexino
- Lake One Digital
- Kraftblick
- Big Human
- Nituno
- Pantelope
Startup Marketing Agency Frequently Asked Questions
What is Startup Marketing?
Startup marketing involves promoting a nascent business to cultivate a strong digital presence and engage potential customers. It involves a wide range of marketing strategies tailored to the startup’s specific needs. These strategies typically include branding, digital advertising, social media marketing, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO). By leveraging these techniques, startup marketing aims to achieve several key objectives.
First and foremost, startup marketing seeks to boost brand awareness within its target market. This is crucial for attracting the attention of potential customers and establishing a track record of credibility and reliability. To achieve this, startups often collaborate with full-service digital marketing agencies, which can provide a comprehensive range of services and an expert team dedicated to crafting effective marketing campaigns.
Moreover, startup marketing endeavors to generate leads and drive revenue, making it a full-time job for the marketing team. By utilizing social media advertising, email marketing, and other digital strategies, startups can engage with their target audience and convert them into loyal customers. This approach is not limited to local markets; it can also extend to international brands looking to expand their reach.
In short, startup marketing is essential to launching and growing a new business. By partnering with full-service digital agencies and implementing diverse marketing activities, startups can build a strong digital presence and attract potential customers, ultimately achieving long-term success in the competitive business landscape.
Should a Startup Use a Marketing Agency?
If you’re a startup founder, you may question the value of using a marketing agency. This is a reasonable consideration, as the success of your business is greatly influenced by how well it’s marketed to the correct audience. This is where marketing agencies come in; they bring their expertise and industry knowledge to assist you in developing effective growth marketing strategies that will lead your business to success.
These agencies provide various digital marketing services customized specifically for startups, such as email marketing, social media marketing, content marketing, and search engine optimization.
How Much Does a Startup Pay for Marketing?
As a startup, one of the critical questions you may have is how much to budget for marketing. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The amount that a startup pays for marketing depends on various factors, including the industry, the target audience, and the marketing channels used.
For instance, startups in highly competitive industries like technology or finance may need to invest more in marketing to stand out from the crowd. Similarly, if the target audience is hard to reach or niche, it may require more resources to capture their attention. Additionally, the cost of marketing channels varies significantly, with some channels, like social media being more affordable than others, like traditional advertising.
However, a general rule of thumb is that startups should allocate 10-20% of their total budget to marketing. This may seem like a lot, but it’s essential to invest in marketing to generate brand awareness, attract customers, and ultimately drive revenue. When it comes to working with marketing agencies, the extra costs also vary depending on the services needed, the size of the agency, and the location. For example, a creative agency in San Francisco may charge more than one in a smaller city.
Nevertheless, working with a marketing agency can be a cost-effective way to gain access to specialized expertise and talent, as well as the latest marketing tools and technologies.
Ultimately, the key is to find a balance between budget and impact. Investing in marketing can pay off significantly in the long run, but it’s crucial to work with experienced professionals who can help you get the most out of your investment.
1. NoGood
Description: NoGood has worked with many early-stage companies and startups, executing multiple services over the years. This includes idea validation, product development, go-to-market strategies, branding identity, and much more. NoGood understands traditional marketing tactics don’t work with startups. The agency executes a unique methodology of rapid experimentation, growth marketing, and research to help startups reach their true potential. NoGood partnership with startups has led to rapid growth, product-market fit, series funding, and company acquisitions.
Office Location: New York, NY (Headquarters)
Year Founded: 2017
Team Size: 50+
Key Services: SEO, CRO, SEM, PPC, Display, Programmatic, Email marketing, Ad Creative, Attribution Reporting
Industries Served: Retail, Consumer Tech, Gaming, Healthcare, B2B, SaaS, DTC
Case Studies: View all case studies.
2. Schaefer Digital
Description: Schaefer Digital has a team of dedicated professionals with 20+ years of experience. Their strategy-first approach and digital expertise have enabled them to deliver the best performance metrics, including 5x average ROAS.
Office Location: Henderson, Nevada
Year Founded: 2019
Team Size: 4+
Key Services: Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Lead Generation
Industries Served: Logistics, mattress and bedding, fitness, B2C
Case Studies: View all case studies.
3. Elevato
Description: Previously named Delta Systems, Elevato aims to provide beautiful digital solutions and experiences that deliver impact. The agency has adapted to the times to ensure the latest strategies and expertise in the digital landscape are executed. Their talent and in-depth knowledge help them handle companies at any scale.
Office Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Year Founded: 2021
Team Size: 50+
Key Services: Website development, SEO, social media marketing, email marketing, branding, application hosting
Industries Served: NPOs, water treatment, healthcare, food and beverage
Case Studies: View all case studies.
4. SimpleTiger
Description: SimpleTiger works primarily with SaaS startups and focuses on comprehensive SEO strategies. SimpleTiger incorporates an agile process when working with SaaS companies. They work to find the most significant opportunities and the best course of action to build and scale your company.
Office Location: Sarasota, Florida
Year Founded: 2006
Team Size: 14+
Key Services: SEO for SaaS, content marketing, link building, technical optimization
Industries Served: B2B, SaaS
Case Studies: View all case studies.
5. Wallaroo Media
Description: The digital marketing agency Wallaroo Media is comprised of a team of innovative and experienced professionals from diverse fields of study. They work collaboratively to provide high-quality marketing services that help businesses succeed. Wallaroo Media takes pride in working closely with previous clients to understand their unique needs and goals.
Office Location: Provo, Utah
Year Founded: 2012
Team Size: 11 – 50
Key Services: Paid advertising, organic marketing, web design, branding, conversion rate optimization
Industries Served: eCommerce, B2B, entertainment
Case Studies: View all case studies.
6. SeeResponse
Description: At SeeResponse, the team understands that every business is different, so they take a personalized approach to each project they work on. Whether creating engaging content, optimizing lead generation campaigns, or developing custom sales enablement tools, SeeResponse works closely with clients to deliver tailored solutions that meet their specific goals and objectives.
Office Location: Reston, Virginia
Year Founded: 2018
Team Size: 11 – 50
Key Services: Software development, video production, SEM, demand generation, marketing automation
Industries Served: SaaS, education, healthcare, IT
Case Studies: View all case studies.
7. Stackmatix
Description: Stackmatix helps engineer growth for startups. Its team combines marketing, technology, and sales skills to help companies reach profitable growth. The agency implements a 6 step process that includes an audit, planning, tracking, management, advisory, and profitability.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year Founded: 2018
Team Size: 11 – 50
Key Services: Growth Audit, Campaign Management, Advisory Services
Industries Served: B2B, eCommerce
Case Studies: View all case studies.
8. Firebrand
Description: Firebrand is a full-service PR and digital marketing agency with a team of experienced professionals passionate about delivering creative and effective marketing solutions for clients across various industries. The agency also stays up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in PR and digital marketing to ensure that clients receive the most effective and innovative solutions.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year Founded: 2016
Team Size: 21+
Key Services: PR, digital and content marketing
Industries Served: Healthcare, tech
Case Studies: View all case studies.
9. The Branx
Description: The Branx is a startup branding agency that helps companies build everything from naming, logo, visual identity, social media, and more. The Branx understands that today’s customers don’t simply buy products and services but buy into companies with solid values and missions. The Branx is committed to helping startups identify their voice to reach success.
Office Location: Cadiz, Andalusia
Year Founded: 2019
Team Size: 10+
Key Services: Brand Strategy, UX/UI, illustrations and animations
Industries Served: SaaS, Fintech, Cleantech, Proptech
Case Studies: View all case studies.
10. Sparkpr
Description: For the last 20 years, Sparkpr has worked and helped all types of brands reach business objectives. They incorporate deep subject matter expertise across media relations, integrated marketing, content, and more. Sparkpr continues to lead startups and enterprises to craft their stories for audiences.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year Founded: 1999
Team Size: 60+
Key Services: PR, integrated marketing, content development
Industries Served: SaaS, cybersecurity, fintech
Case Studies: View all case studies.
11. HeadStart
Description: HeadStart is a public relations and marketing agency for startups. The agency understands that startups have great ideas and stories that are often challenging to translate to mass audiences. Combining their expertise in media relations, production, marketing, creative design, and strategy, HeadStart helps startups get the coverage and recognition they need.
Office Location: Washington, DC
Year Founded: 2021
Team Size: 13+
Key Services: Brand building, media strategy, PR, earned media, written content
Industries Served: N/A
Case Studies: N/A
12. Single Grain
Description: Single Grain is a digital marketing agency that specializes in helping businesses grow their online presence through various marketing strategies. The agency also offers consulting services for startups and has a blog and podcast where they share their expertise and insights on digital marketing.
Office Location: Los Angeles, California
Year Founded: 2009
Team Size: 49+
Key Services: SEO, PPC, Content Marketing
Industries Served: SaaS, B2B, eCommerce
Case Studies: View all case studies.
13. Sociallyin
Description: This team of social media specialists consists of artists, designers, writers, videographers, and strategists. Using technology, high-level research, and social media expertise, Sociallyn empowers companies to build traction, grow rapidly, and expedite results.
Office Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Year Founded: 2011
Team Size: 74+
Key Services: Social media management, ROI modeling, influencer marketing
Industries Served: Retail, food and beverage, IT, health and fitness
Case Studies: View all case studies.
14. Brolik
Description: A team of creative professionals is ready to help your business reach its goals and KPIs. Brolik understands how to position your brand through audience discovery and proper messaging. The agency executes to empower your company from the ground up to ensure high-level growth.
Office Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Year Founded: 2004
Team Size: 11+
Key Services: Web design, digital marketing strategy, branding, video production
Industries Served: Real estate, healthcare, travel and tourism
Case Studies: View all case studies.
15. Shift Paradigm
Description: The agency looks to solve challenges that truly affect and hurt a client’s growth ability. Shift Paradigm is technology agnostic and has experience with some of the most complex marketing operations.
Office Location: Austin, Texas
Year Founded: 2021
Team Size: 216+
Key Services: Demand generation, PLG, customer marketing
Industries Served: B2C, SaaS, B2C, healthcare, education
Case Studies: View all case studies.
16. Kexino
Description: Considered one top creative startup marketing agencies, Kexino provides marketing services exclusively to small businesses and startups. Kexino understands that brands need to be bold and different in today’s world to stand out amongst the noise. Kexino executes on marketing initiatives that help your brand stand out while delivering on the bottom line.
Office Location: Pfettisheim, France
Year Founded: 2008
Team Size: 4+
Key Services: Translation, video production, content creation, branding
Industries Served: Construction, Technology
Case Studies: View all case studies.
17. Lake One Digital
Description: Lake One Digital understands that startups all face their unique challenges and need a proven startup marketing tactics partner. The agency combines B2B startup expertise across marketing, sales, and operations to create a strong foundation for business success.
Office Location: Maple Grove, Minnesota
Year Founded: 2014
Team Size: 10+
Key Services: Inbound marketing, marketing automation, integrations, sales and marketing alignment
Industries Served: Healthcare, jewelry, fintech
Case Studies: View all case studies.
18. Kraftblick
Description: Kraftblick specializes in consulting for technology and software startups. Kraftblick provides digital consulting across SEO, paid search, and content and helps software companies develop their brand presence. The agency is an ideal partner for early-stage companies to ensure proper execution and safe results.
Office Location: Minsk, Belarus
Year Founded: 2014
Team Size: 7+
Key Services: Digital consulting, paid advertising, content marketing, search engine consulting
Industries Served: SaaS, cryptocurrency, IT
Case Studies: View all case studies.
19. Big Human
Description: This agency loves working with startups because startups allow them to do what they do best: propose and execute awesome ideas. Big Human delivers all startup branding elements, including logo, typography, and tone of voice. This ensures startups are ready to break through in their respective markets and achieve business goals.
Office Location: New York, New York
Year Founded: 2011
Team Size: 37+
Key Services: Digital strategy, digital product design, eCommerce UX design, branding, development of mobile apps
Industries Served: eCommerce, education, fintech
Case Studies: View all case studies.
20. Nituno
Description: Conventional marketing tactics won’t cut it for startups, whether you are trying to scale your sales process and pipeline or grow traffic and generate leads. Nituno, a bilingual (English & French) marketing agency, understands the right mix of online marketing, sales, and performance and is the ultimate recipe for success for early-stage startups. This makes Nituno the right agency partner for many brands.
Office Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Year Founded: 2019
Team Size: 2+
Key Services: SEO coaching, affiliate marketing, HubSpot implementation
Industries Served: B2B, SaaS
Case Studies: View all case studies.
21. Pantelope
Description: Pantelope offers its partners a startup methodology that is ROI-driven. Using multiple marketing channels, including PPC, SEO, and social media, Pantelope can test, optimize and discover the best strategies for startups to reach early success.
Office Location: Los Angeles, California
Year Founded: 2016
Team Size: 10+
Key Services: Paid search, paid social, SEO, lifecycle marketing
Industries Served: eCommerce, SaaS, B2B
Case Studies: N/A
How to Choose the Right Startup Marketing Agency
Choosing the right startup marketing agency is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your business’s success. With numerous digital marketing agencies for startups in the market, it can be challenging to make the right choice. To narrow down your options and find the best agency for your startup, consider the following steps:
1. Define Your Goals
Before you start your search, clearly define your startup’s goals and objectives. Every business has unique needs and objectives, so it’s essential to be specific about what you want to achieve through digital marketing. Whether your goals involve profitability, cash flow, client acquisition, audience growth, or scalability, having a clear vision is the first step in finding an agency that can help you reach those goals.
2. Check the Digital Agency’s Performance
Research is key when evaluating digital marketing agencies. Examine their track record by requesting a portfolio of their recent projects. Additionally, ask for references from recent clients to get firsthand insights into their performance. Client feedback, available through online reviews, testimonials, and social media pages, can provide valuable information about their reputation and the quality of their work.
3. Choose Specialization in Startup Marketing
Consider working with a digital marketing agency that specializes in startup marketing. Specialization demonstrates that the agency understands the unique challenges and needs of startups. Look for agencies with a proven track record of helping startups grow from the ground up. They are more likely to have the expertise and strategies tailored to your specific requirements.
4. Consider Pricing
As a startup, budget constraints are a common challenge. Evaluate the cost of services offered by potential agencies and ensure they align with your budget. Keep in mind that higher prices do not necessarily equate to better service. Look for an agency that offers reasonable pricing while maintaining high-quality services. If you plan for a long-term partnership, inquire about the possibility of discounts to help you manage costs and increase profitability.
5. Check Industry Experience
Industry experience is a valuable factor in digital marketing. While it’s essential to consider an agency’s experience, it shouldn’t be the sole determining factor. Inquire about the number of startups the agency has assisted and how long they have been in the field. A mix of experience and adaptability is ideal, as some newer agencies may be equally capable of delivering results.
6. Assess the Range of Services
Discuss the importance of evaluating the range of services the marketing agency offers. Highlight how a full-service startup marketing agency can provide a holistic approach to your marketing needs, from SEO and content marketing to paid advertising and social media management.
7. Explore Client Relationships
Examine the significance of building strong client-agency relationships. Explain how effective communication and collaboration with the agency can lead to better outcomes. Offer tips on fostering a productive working relationship with your chosen agency.
8. Understand the Role of a Marketing Partner
Discuss the concept of a marketing agency as a strategic partner for your startup. Explain how a collaborative approach can lead to more effective marketing strategies and campaigns. Share insights into how a marketing partner can help you achieve your long-term business objectives.
9. Delve into Business Strategies
Explore the role of the marketing agency in developing and executing effective business strategies. Explain how the agency’s expertise can contribute to aligning marketing efforts with your overall business goals. Provide examples of successful strategies implemented by marketing agencies.
10. Evaluate the Agency’s Track Record
Dive deeper into the importance of assessing the agency’s track record. Highlight specific metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) that startups should consider when evaluating an agency’s past performance. Discuss how a proven track record can instill confidence in your choice.
11. Consider the Role of Advertising Agencies
Examine the difference between a full-service marketing agency and an advertising agency. Explain when startups might benefit from working with an advertising agency and how their expertise can complement broader marketing efforts.
12. Review Case Studies
Discuss the value of reviewing case studies provided by the agency. Explain how case studies can offer insights into the agency’s problem-solving abilities, creativity, and success stories. Encourage readers to examine these real-world examples thoroughly.
13. Understand the Agency’s Approach to Business Growth
Explore how the agency plans to contribute to your startup’s growth. Discuss the importance of aligning their approach with your goals for scaling your business and expanding your market reach.
14. Analyze the Agency’s Digital Presence
Highlight the significance of assessing the agency’s own digital presence. Explain how their website, social media profiles, and online content can provide clues about their digital marketing capabilities and commitment to staying current in the industry.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best digital marketing agency for your startup is a crucial decision that should not be rushed. By defining your goals, evaluating performance, considering specialization, examining pricing, and assessing industry experience, you can make a well-informed choice.
Remember that a full-service startup marketing agency can serve as a valuable marketing partner, helping you develop effective business strategies and build strong client relationships. With these factors in mind, you can confidently select the agency that aligns with your startup’s vision and objectives, setting the stage for long-term success.
