Whether Apple, Facebook, or Google, all of these companies had their humble beginnings in Silicon Valley. At this point, San Francisco has practically become hallowed ground. If you are trying to change the world with a fresh, transcending business, it only makes sense to come to this place to start your business. Every day, more and more companies are coming to San Francisco to pursue their ambitious dreams and launch the next big business. Since innovation and startup culture are prevalent, it is also the perfect opportunity for marketing agencies in San Francisco.
New companies are popping up every day, aiming for rapid growth. They rely on advertising and digital marketing companies to help them understand branding, messaging, positioning, and more. All with the goal of getting in front of as many new customers and users as possible.
As you can imagine, this opportunity for advertising agencies has never been a secret, and at this point in time, there are thousands of marketing agencies in San Francisco. But much like the tech companies that are popping up in the Bay Area, only a few advertising agencies stand out from the rest.
Top 29 Digital Marketing Agencies in San Francisco for 2024:
- NoGood
- Argonaut
- Edelman
- Mekanism
- Cutwater
- Duncan Channon
- PR Hacker
- BarretSF
- Goodby Silverstein & Partners
- Baker Street Advertising
- Venables Bell & Partners
- Pereira & O’Dell
- Gumas
- Cibo
- Colibri Digital Marketing
- MUH-TAY-ZIK HOF-FER
- Camp + King
- HUb
- MBE Group
- Media Cause
- Flickerbox
- Propane
- Michael Patrick Partners
- Jives Media
- BSTRO
- Division of Labor
- Moburst
- Bay Creative
- JStokes
1.NoGood
Description: NoGood is a group of highly skilled data analysts, performance marketers, and creative strategists. Their diverse team comes together from a variety of backgrounds and industries, which helps them provide unique insights to their clients. NoGood’s mantra as an advertising agency is to deliver marketing and business growth with no frills. They love to work with forward-thinking businesses and create customized solutions to provide the most value to their clients.
Office Location: New York, NY (Headquarters)
Year founded: 2017
Team Size: 50 – 100 employees
Key Services: SEO, CRO, SEM, Social Ads, Content Marketing, Email, Video, and SMS Marketing
Industries Served: SaaS, Healthcare, Fintech, B2B, Consumer, Crypto
Case Studies: View all case studies.
2.Argonaut
Description: Argonaut is a full-service advertising agency that works with brands looking to revamp, revitalize and reimagine to create brand comebacks and succeed. Driven by curiosity, hope, and ambition, their agency values that they are committed to being the change. Their client portfolio includes some very successful brands, such as Honey Bunches by Oats, Fitbit, and Volkswagen.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2013
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: Brand Design, Strategy, Brand Management, Creative Development, Production
Industries Served: Fintech, Photography, Health and Fitness
Case Studies: View all case studies.
3.Edelman
Description: Edelman is a renowned global communications firm that collaborates with businesses and organizations to enhance, endorse, and safeguard their brands and reputations. They excel in crafting compelling concepts and narratives that resonate with audiences in a rapidly evolving news landscape. Founded by Dan Edelman, the company has maintained its independence and remains family-owned. Edelman utilizes its profits to reinforce its operations, offer its employees avenues for growth, drive progress within the industry, and actively contribute as a responsible global citizen.
Office Location: New York, NY
Year founded: 1952
Team Size: 200+ employees
Key Services: Branded Entertainment, Media Relations, Corporate Reputation
Industries Served: Retail, Education, Food and Beverage
Case Studies: View all case studies.
4.Mekanism
Description: Mekanism is an exceptionally innovative and enterprising agency that seamlessly merges creativity and measurable results to construct remarkable brands. Their distinctive approach, known as Soul & Science, combines the artistry of creativity with the precision of performance-driven strategies. Renowned for their exceptional work, Mekanism has garnered prestigious awards, including being featured on Ad Age’s esteemed A-List and earning the Best Places to Work distinction twice.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2003
Team Size: 50 – 200 employees
Key Services: Digital Design, SMM, Integrated Advertising Campaigns
Industries Served: Food and Beverage, Consumer Electronics, Fitness
Case Studies: View all case studies.
5.Cutwater
Description: Cutwater is a branding agency specializing in refining brands to make them truly unique, increasing their chances of making an impact, gaining attention, and standing out from the competition. They firmly believe that distinctive brands are the ones that capture people’s interest and resonate with them. Cutwater’s core values revolve around the art of storytelling, embracing clients with something to prove, harnessing the power of creativity, and adopting an unwavering focus on their client’s success.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2007
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: SEM, SMM, Content Creation, Media Planning, Design
Industries Served: Bicycle Manufacturing, Financial Services, Eyewear
Case Studies: View all case studies.
6.Duncan Channon
Description: Duncan Channon is a top advertising agency using digital and traditional methods to build a distinctive brand for its clients. As a four-time Ad Agency of the Year, they work with companies to discover their unique positioning and unlock their full potential. They help brands achieve their goals with the right strategy, brand identity, design, and more.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 1990
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: Design, Advertising, Media
Industries Served: Plant-Based Food, Hospitality, Beauty
Case Studies: View all case studies.
7.PR Hacker
Description: PR Hacker is a dynamic startup that is revolutionizing the realm of public relations through its innovative methodology, data-driven analytics, and captivating viral campaigns. With a fresh perspective and a forward-thinking approach, PR Hacker challenges the status quo by leveraging cutting-edge tools, technology, and trends to reshape the field.
PR Hacker’s commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing the power of PR in an ever-evolving landscape has established them as an industry frontrunner.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2013
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: PR, Market Research, Social Media, Video Production, Influencer Marketing
Industries Served: Food and Beverage, Education, Health
Case Studies: View all case studies.
8.BarretSF
Description: With a presence in eight cities, they strike a balance between being a small agency and a big player in the industry. At Barrett Hofherr, their focus is on propelling their clients toward great achievements. Whether you aspire to reach far-reaching goals or elevate your brand to new heights, they are committed to going the extra mile with you. While they acknowledge that challenges may arise along the way, they firmly believe in finding solutions and leading you toward brighter outcomes.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2012
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Digital & Creative Services, Social Media, Advertising
Industries Served: Health, Text Marketing, Software Development
Case Studies: View all case studies.
9.Goodby Silverstein & Partners
Description: Goodby Silverstein & Partners is an innovative, creative company that prioritizes the importance of people in their endeavors. They foster genuine relationships with both clients and consumers, fostering an environment of honesty and authenticity. Together, they dismantle preconceived notions, embracing a collaborative learning process. At the core of their mission is creating transformative experiences that resonate with millions, even billions, yet feel deeply personal. They have coined this phenomenon as “mass intimacy.”
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 1983
Team Size: 200 – 500 employees
Key Services: Design, Media Strategy, Brand Strategy, Research and Analytics
Industries Served: Automotive, Snack Food, Insurance
Case Studies: View all case studies.
10.Baker Street Advertising
Description: Baker Street is a full-service, integrated advertising, consumer research, and data analytics agency. Taking inspiration from Sherlock Holmes’ legendary office address, they specialize in unearthing hidden truths that unlock the future of brands. With a keen eye for overlooked insights, Baker Street’s team of talented content creators, digital designers, and video/film directors draw from their exceptional, world-class experience and muse-inspired creativity. Baker Street’s holistic approach combines the power of creativity, data-driven analysis, and strategic thinking to give brands a competitive edge.
Office Location: Emeryville, California
Year founded: 1982
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Consumer Research, Advertising, Branding, SEM, Production
Industries Served: Automotive, Sports, Education
Case Studies: View all case studies.
11.Venables Bell & Partners
Description: Venables Bell & Partners is a world-renowned independent advertising agency that taps into the social energy of its culture, people, and brands to create social native ideas at the speed of the newsfeed. With profitable growth every year, their challenger approach has drawn blue-chip brands like PlayStation, Blue Moon, Intel, and others to their roster. In addition to their full-service offering, they are home to VBP Orange, a customer experience consulting firm, and Lumberyard, a content production facility.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2001
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: Advertising, Communications Strategy, Brand Strategy, Media
Industries Served: E-Commerce, Automotive, Entertainment
Case Studies: View all case studies.
12.Pereira O’Dell
Description: Pereira O’Dell is an agency that represents strong values. The agency thinks digitally and technologically forward, yet honors and celebrates old traditions of advertising. Their capabilities span a variety of services. What’s interesting about this agency is that they understand the balance needed between what the audience wants and business results.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2008
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: SMM, Branded Entertainment, Advertising, Branding
Industries Served: Software, Financial Services, Automotive
Case Studies: View all case studies.
13.Gumas
Description: Gumas is an acclaimed and accomplished full-service marketing agency renowned nationally. They specialize in developing and executing highly effective Challenger Brand strategies, enabling their clients to compete successfully against more established and well-equipped rivals. Irrespective of their clients’ size, industry, or competitive landscape, Gumas’ tried-and-tested methodologies empower them to maximize their existing marketing resources and achieve exceptional outcomes, propelling their businesses toward accelerated growth.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 1984
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Integrated Media Strategies, Web Design & Development, PR, Creative Services
Industries Served: Education, Health, Beauty
Case Studies: View all case studies.
14.Cibo
Description: At Cibo, they are pioneer in brand and customer experience. Since its inception, Cibo has developed innovative solutions for early-stage companies and startups. Their team of data analysts, developers, strategists, and designers believe in delivering the absolute best customer experience on the web. They want to execute work that makes customers happy.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2010
Team Size: 50 – 200 employees
Key Services: Digital Marketing, Branding, Web Platform Development, Mobile Strategy, SMM
Industries Served: Motorcycle, E-Commerce, Apparel
Case Studies: View all case studies.
15.Colibri Digital Marketing
Description: Colibri Digital Marketing represents companies of all sizes. Designed to meet the digital marketing needs of visionary organizations, they are the first and only full-service digital marketing agency certified by B Corp. San Francisco. They are leaders in forward-thinking digital marketing, reflecting the ever-increasing need for business leadership that promotes and defends individuals, the planet, and profit. Through their emphasis on triple-bottom-line results, and their forward-thinking and quality-driven use of digital marketing best practices, their goal is to meet the digital marketing needs of innovative brands and nonprofit organizations.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2012
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Branding, SEO, PPC, Website Design, Content Marketing, Mission Alignment, Email Marketing
Industries Served: Education, Fitness, Financial Services
Case Studies: View all case studies.
16.MUH-TAY-ZIK HOF-FER
Description: MUH-TAY-ZIK / HOF-FER is a full-service advertising agency that thrives on creativity and strategic thinking. With a firm conviction that creativity remains the most potent tool for any brand’s success, the agency encourages its team members and clients to strive for greatness and stand out from the competition. By consistently outthinking, outpacing, and outperforming the norm, the agency endeavors to revolutionize the game in favor of its clients.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2010
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: Viral Marketing, Digital Advertising, Social Media
Industries Served: E-Commerce, Automotive, Entertainment
Case Studies: View all case studies.
17.Camp + King
Description: This agency makes companies and brands they work with conversation-worthy. Their process starts with researching insights that inspire conversation-worthy ideas. Then they put together a strategy to help those ideas spread.
Their mission is to extract, articulate, and execute with creative brilliance. The team values curiosity, creativity, passion, and directness, and they seek these qualities in their partners. Operating honestly and respectfully, they prioritize strong relationships with clients and employees.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2011
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Traditional Advertising, Branding Solutions, Social Listening, Package Design, Market Research
Industries Served: Consumer Goods, E-Commerce, Apparel
Case Studies: View all case studies.
18.HUb
Description: Hub boasts a dedicated team of account managers, strategists, and creative directors, complemented by an extensive network of approximately 100 freelancers. This unique “creative collective” comprises specialists across various disciplines, enabling Hub to engage the ideal creative talent for every project. The creative directors at Hub assume an active role in overseeing and guiding these freelancers, seamlessly integrating them into the agency’s operations. As a result, clients experience a cohesive and collaborative working dynamic akin to having an in-house team.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2001
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Advertising, Media Buying, Branding
Industries Served: Fitness, Tourism, Health
Case Studies: View all case studies.
19.MBE Group
Description: MBE Group is the result of a merger between Marx Group and Eisbrenner Public Relations, combining their extensive expertise and knowledge. With offices in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and San Rafael, California, MBE Group provides a wide array of services customized to meet each client’s unique needs. Specializing in strategic marketing, they assist B2B and B2C clients worldwide in boosting sales, expanding market share, and achieving business growth. MBE Group’s dedicated team is committed to delivering impactful solutions that drive tangible results for their clients.
Office Location: Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Year founded: 2019
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Crisis Communications, Digital Advertising, Web & Creative Design
Industries Served: Automotive, Tech, Consumer Goods
Case Studies: View all case studies.
20.Media Cause
Description: Media Cause is a mission-driven marketing agency that helps nonprofits. Their belief in helping nonprofits, philanthropists, advocates, and educators means their marketing approach is a little different than other agencies. Media Cause measures success for their nonprofit clients based on specific milestones and outcomes, such as supporter engagement, actions taken, lives changed, etc.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2010
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: Social Media Strategy, Brand Strategy, SEO, Website Design, Community Management
Industries Served: Education, Health, Environmental
Case Studies: View all case studies.
21.Flickerbox
Description: Flickerbox works with businesses to help them grow long-term. Clients appreciate their work because the agency creates a fresh, engaging, and professional digital presence. Their team helps businesses create a strong connection between their brand and their customer base. They do this through good planning, thoughtful content, engaging visuals, smart development, and regular testing and iteration.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 1998
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Interactive Marketing, Design, Website Development, Salesforce Integration, Product Demos
Industries Served: Internet Technology, Video Conferencing, Cloud Computing and Network
Case Studies: View all case studies.
22.Propane
Description: Propane is a digital experience and platform agency. For each client, it can create a digital roadmap called “Digital Business Engine Platform” that includes the following 5 key solutions: Generate Interest, Create Distinction, Drive Conversion, Build Loyalty, and Increase Efficiency. A fun fact about them is that they also worked on the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) for Kaiser Permanente!
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 2003
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Brand Strategy, Content Strategy, Creative Design, Digital Experience, Development
Industries Served: Automotive, Healthcare, Technology
Case Studies: View all case studies.
23.Michael Patrick Partners
Description: Michael Patrick Partners is a creative agency best known for developing the identity of E*TRADE. Their expertise includes brand development, brand strategy, design, and marketing campaigns used to differentiate at every stage of a company’s lifecycle. Their experience speaks from the over 500 creative industry awards they have received over the years.
Office Location: San Francisco, California
Year founded: 1980
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Brand Development, Corporate Communications, Marketing Communications, Digital Branding
Industries Served: Education, Healthcare, Food and Beverage
Case Studies: View all case studies.
24.Jives Media
Description: Jives Media is an award-winning agency consisting of acclaimed web designers, growth hackers, and brand strategists. They help organizations from startups to Fortune 500 companies achieve their business goals and serve a wide range of industries. Their team of accomplished marketers, recognized for their industry achievements, prioritizes attentive listening to understand the distinct needs of each client. With a commitment to excellence, Jives Media takes pride in shouldering the workload and delivering seamless executions to exceed client expectations.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 2012
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Digital Marketing, Website Design, SEO, Video Production, SMM, Lead Generation
Industries Served: Tech, Healthcare, Retail
Case Studies: View all case studies.
25.BSTRO
Description: BSTRO is one of the leading marketing agencies in San Francisco, helping brands inspire action through powerful storytelling and innovative technology. From design and storytelling to technology and development, they help companies engage their customers in exciting ways. They have helped businesses in B2B, B2C, and non-profits exceed their goals. They can also help any national or international company, as the agency represents 12 different countries and speaks 18 languages.
Office Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Year founded: 2004
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Advertising, Online Media, Programming, Information Architecture, Usability Design, SMM
Industries Served: Legal, Food and Beverage, Compliance
Case Studies: View all case studies.
26.Division of Labor
Description: Division of Labor is an advertising agency in Sausalito, CA. Their team focuses on social media marketing and video production. They develop strategies and execute creative campaigns for clients of varying sizes in marketing, entertainment, and business services.
Office Location: Sausalito, CA
Year founded: 2010
Team Size: 2 – 10 employees
Key Services: Advertising
Industries Served: Healthcare, Tech, Entertainment
Case Studies: N/A
27.Moburst
Description: Moburst is a mobile digital marketing agency that helps businesses become industry leaders. The company specializes in mobile and app marketing, advertising, and branding. Moburst specializes in Fortune 500 companies but works with businesses of all sizes and industries.
Office Location: New York, New York
Year founded: 2013
Team Size: 51 – 200 employees
Key Services: Marketing Strategy, Organic Awareness, Media Buying, Mobile App Marketing
Industries Served: Transportation, Technology, Internet
Case Studies: View all case studies.
28.BayCreative
Description: BayCreative is a highly regarded full-service B2B marketing agency that has built a strong reputation in the industry. With an extensive track record of successful projects and a long list of satisfied customers, BayCreative enhances people’s overall experience with companies through their strategic marketing efforts. By leveraging its expertise, BayCreative develops solid relationships between brands and their target audience, ultimately increasing the likelihood of achieving defined outcomes and goals.
Office Location: San Francisco, CA
Year founded: 1997
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Lead Generation, Website Development, Illustration, Branding, Email Marketing
Industries Served: Cloud Computing, Social Media, Internet Services
Case Studies: View all case studies.
29.JStokes
Description: JStokes is a results-driven strategic marketing agency dedicated to accelerating the growth of your business. By crafting practical, actionable, and sometimes unconventional solutions, JStokes propels businesses forward in today’s competitive landscape. Understanding the challenges of a dynamic market, evolving customer preferences, and a competitive labor market, JStokes is well-equipped to develop a tailored marketing strategy that captures market share, and drives increased profitability for your business.
Office Location: Walnut Creek, CA
Year founded: 1978
Team Size: 11 – 50 employees
Key Services: Advertising, Digital Marketing, Social Media, Brand Strategy, Content Marketing
Industries Served: Retail, Legal, B2B, Real Estate
Case Studies: View all case studies.
San Francisco is certainly an important hub for all kinds of marketing agencies working with a number of different clients. Deciding to hire a marketing agency is easy, while the hard part is deciding which agency to hire. After reading this blog, we hope that we have given you an impetus to start looking for the perfect marketing agencies in San Francisco that will meet all of your company’s needs and goals.
FAQs about Marketing Agencies in San Francisco
How Much Should You Pay for a Marketing Agency?
Although spending 5% – 30% of your total revenue on your entire marketing budget is recommended, determining the appropriate cost for a marketing agency can vary based on several factors, including the scope of work, the expertise and reputation of the agency, and the specific services required.
Evaluating the cost concerning the potential return on investment (ROI) is crucial, and by following these steps, you can assess the ROI of hiring a marketing agency and make informed decisions based on measurable results.
1. Clearly Define Goals:
Start by defining your marketing objectives and goals. These include increasing brand awareness, generating leads, improving conversion rates, expanding market reach, or boosting sales. Clear goals will help you measure the effectiveness of the agency’s efforts.
2. Establish Measurable Metrics:
Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your goals. These metrics could include website traffic, conversion rates, marketing lead generation, customer acquisition cost, customer lifetime value, social media engagement, or any other relevant metrics specific to your business.
3. Baseline Measurement:
Establish a baseline for the identified KPIs before engaging the marketing agency. Measure and document the current performance of your marketing efforts to have a benchmark for comparison.
4. Cost Analysis:
Determine the cost of hiring the marketing agency. This typically involves understanding their pricing structure, whether it’s a monthly retainer, project-based fees, or a revenue-share percentage model. Consider any additional costs associated with implementing marketing campaigns or tools recommended by the agency.
5. Track Progress:
Once the agency starts its work, closely monitor the agreed-upon KPIs. Regularly review and analyze the data to gauge the impact of their efforts.
6. Calculate ROI:
To calculate the ROI, compare the results achieved with the costs incurred. The ROI formula is: (Return – Investment) / investment * 100. The “Return” represents the financial gains from the marketing agency’s efforts, such as increased revenue or cost savings. “Investment” refers to the total costs of hiring the agency, including fees, campaign costs, and additional expenses.
7. Assess Long-Term Impact:
Evaluate the potential long-term benefits beyond the immediate ROI. Effective marketing strategies can lead to sustained growth, improved brand reputation, and customer loyalty, which might take time to reflect in financial metrics.
8. Regular Review and Adjustment:
Continuously review the performance and ROI of the marketing agency over time. Make adjustments, as needed, to optimize the results. Regularly communicate with the agency, discuss progress, and align strategies.
Remember that ROI evaluation is an ongoing process, and it’s vital to adapt strategies as needed to maximize the value of your investment.
Is It Worth Using a Marketing Agency?
Collaborating with a marketing agency can deliver substantial value and drive significant business results. A marketing agency’s results-driven approach can be seen through its case studies and data showcasing the success they have achieved for its clients. For example, by implementing a user-centric approach and leveraging in-depth user insights, the team at NoGood successfully boosted sign-ups for a SaaS brand by 25% by employing a strategic acquisition strategy that facilitated the conversion of users into paying customers.
With a marketing agency, you gain access to a dedicated team with diverse skills, saving you the time and effort of building and managing an in-house marketing team. As your marketing needs fluctuate, a marketing agency can quickly scale its services up or down to meet your requirements. They have the resources to handle more extensive campaigns or sudden surges in marketing activities. In contrast, scaling an in-house team can be time-consuming and may lead to additional hiring and training costs.
Overall, the expertise, industry knowledge, and access to a marketing agency’s resources make it a worthwhile investment for businesses seeking to strengthen their marketing strategies and drive growth.
What are the Marketing Big 5 Companies?
The marketing big 5 refers to the top companies in the marketing industry that have established themselves as leaders in their respective domains. While there is no definitive list of the marketing big 5 companies, we can provide you with our selection of top companies based on their reputation and industry recognition: NoGood, Argonaut, Edelman, Mekanism, and Cutwater. Please note that the choice of these companies is subjective and based on our assessment. The marketing industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, with many outstanding companies that may be considered part of the marketing big 5.
What Can a Marketing Agency Do for Me?
By partnering with a digital marketing agency, you can leverage their expertise in marketing strategy, digital strategy, and marketing communications to your target audience. These agencies also excel in web development and design, creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites that drive conversions. Additionally, they specialize in media planning and buying, ensuring your marketing campaigns reach the right audience through various channels. With their video production and creative design expertise, a marketing agency can produce high-quality visuals that engage your target market and amplify your brand.
This article was very helpful for me, Thanks for sharing that with us.