Chicago’s design and creative industry is buzzing with talent, and 2024 is set to be a landmark year for innovation and artistic excellence. The city is home to a diverse range of agencies pushing the boundaries of creativity, blending traditional design principles with cutting-edge digital strategies. Whether through stunning branding initiatives, immersive digital experiences, or groundbreaking advertising campaigns, these agencies are leading the charge in shaping the visual and cultural landscape of Chicago.
In this list of “15 Top Design & Creative Agencies in Chicago City to Watch in 2024,” you’ll find a curated selection of firms that are not only making waves locally but also gaining recognition on a national and global scale. These agencies represent the best of what Chicago has to offer, each bringing a unique perspective and a commitment to excellence that sets them apart in a competitive market. If you’re looking for inspiration or seeking top-tier creative partners, these are the agencies to keep on your radar this year.
How to Choose the Best Creative & Design Agency for Your Business in Chicago
Selecting the right design agency, even when you have a clear vision, can be a challenging process. The abundance of top-tier graphic design agencies, each with its unique strengths, makes the decision complex, requiring careful consideration of various factors. From understanding your brand’s unique needs to evaluating the agency’s portfolio and expertise, the process demands both time and attention.
However, by taking a strategic approach, you can simplify this task and find the perfect partner to bring your creative vision to life. To streamline your path to design success, consider following these three essential steps. You’ll ensure that your chosen agency not only aligns with your goals but also brings your brand to new heights.
If you’re looking for an easy way to ensure design success, follow these three steps:
Step 1: Research and Shortlist Creative Agencies
Finding the right creative agency or graphic designer can expedite your campaigns and help resolve common internal creative challenges. Start by researching and narrowing down potential candidates. Evaluate their offerings and determine which agencies or designers align best with your needs. Pay attention to their past work and client testimonials to gauge their expertise and reliability.
Step 2: Tap into Local Chicago Expertise
For successful business marketing in Chicago, it’s essential to connect with a design partner who understands the local market. Seek out agencies with extensive experience in the area to ensure your design resonates with the Chicago audience. Notably, Animotions Studio boasts a strong track record with over 1,990 completed projects in Chicago, demonstrating deep expertise in catering to the local business community. This local insight can significantly enhance the relevance and impact of your marketing efforts.
Step 3: Assess Pricing, Scalability, and Growth Potential
When selecting a design partner, evaluate their pricing structure, scalability, and ability to adapt to future project needs. Ensure they offer transparency in their pricing and can accommodate your budget constraints. Look for agencies that provide clear cost estimates and are prepared to scale effectively as your requirements evolve. Additionally, consider their capacity to handle larger projects and their long-term potential to support your business growth.
15 Best Creative & Design Agencies in Chicago for 2024
Which firms truly shine in the Chicago design scene? Let’s explore the standout agencies that are making a significant impact this year. From their innovative approaches to their impressive portfolios, these firms are leading the way in creativity and design excellence. Discover the top players who are redefining the industry and setting new standards in the Windy City. Dive in and see which agencies are pushing the boundaries and driving the future of design.
1. Animotions Studio
(Source: Animotions Studio)
Our Services:
- 2D Animation
- 3D Animation
- Explainer Video
- Whiteboard Animation
- SaaS Video Production
- Video Editing
- 2D & 3D Character Design
- Illustration Design
- Motion Graphics and Video Production
- Branding Services
- Concept Design
- Presentations, eBooks, and Report Design
Location: New York, Houston, Dover, Los Angeles, Chicago, Austin – United States.
Animotions Studio stands out with its deep expertise in the Chicago market and a talented team of over 700 top creatives located around the globe. Our innovative approach combines human creativity with cutting-edge tools to deliver exceptional, localized designs that are both fast and flawless.
We understand that each project is unique, which is why we offer a comprehensive range of design services through a flexible model. Whether you require standout ad creatives to boost your campaign or innovative augmented reality features to engage your audience, we provide the resources you need to achieve your goals.
Our commitment to complete price transparency ensures that all the design services you require are included in your plan. This approach simplifies budgeting and allows you to focus on your creative vision without worrying about unexpected costs.
With Animotions Studio, you gain access to a dedicated team that understands your brand’s distinct needs and provides tailored solutions. We streamline your design process with our efficient workflows, ensuring timely delivery without compromising quality. Our collaborative approach means you’re always in control and aligned with your brand’s objectives. Experience the perfect blend of creativity and precision with Animotions Studio, where your vision meets excellence.
Pricing: On request.
Ideal For: Mid-market and enterprise-level businesses needing support with any design service, as and when required.
2. 1Brand Design
(Source: 1Brand Design)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Social Media Marketing
- Video Production and Animation
1Brand Design is a dynamic design agency specializing in creating impactful, sales-driven solutions. With experience collaborating with leading companies in finance, B2C sales, manufacturing, and green technology, 1Brand excels in delivering comprehensive design services.
Their offerings span from web design and SEO optimization to print campaigns, brand identity, and video marketing. Known for its versatility, 1Brand is well-suited for businesses seeking a broad range of design capabilities.
With a strong focus on marketing and lead generation, 1Brand is an excellent choice for companies looking to enhance their sales and creative strategies. Their diverse client portfolio includes global brands like Fiat and local firms such as Chicago City Roofing.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Finance companies in need of a robust, sales-oriented creative partner.
3. Concentric Design
(Source: Concentric Design)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Print, Packaging, and Merchandise Design
- Presentations, eBooks, and Report Design
Concentric Design is a boutique agency dedicated to using its design expertise to foster positive change within the Chicago community. The agency focuses on partnering with businesses that aim to make a meaningful impact, particularly within the non-profit and social development sectors.
In addition to its social impact work, Concentric Design offers significant experience in the finance, healthcare, and IT industries.
With a strong emphasis on visual identity and branding, Concentric Design is an ideal partner for companies seeking a comprehensive brand and identity transformation. It is also well-suited for smaller businesses embarking on their branding journey.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Non-profit and social good organizations in need of a partner with deep sector expertise.
4. Rule29
(Source: Rule29)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- App Design
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Ads and Social Media Design
- Motion Graphics and Video Production
- Print and Packaging Design
- Signage and Environmental Design
With over 20 years of design experience, Rule29 is renowned as one of Chicago’s leading creative agencies. The firm is known for its focus on clarity, innovation, and customer engagement to help businesses of all sizes grow their reach.
Rule29 employs a meticulous, three-step approach in its client engagements, featuring its proprietary “Creative Matters” process. This specialized framework ensures the delivery of impactful, results-driven design solutions.
The agency’s impressive portfolio spans from startups to Fortune 500 companies, including notable clients such as Microsoft, HP, McDonald’s, and DC Comics. Choosing Rule29 means partnering with a design firm that has a proven track record of success.
Locations: Chicago, Illinois; Denver, Colorado; Los Angeles, California
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Mid to enterprise-level companies looking for a standardized and effective approach to their design projects.
5. Mabbly
(Source: Mabbly)
Services Offered:
- Identity and Branding
- Social Media Marketing and Strategy
- Graphic Design
- Motion Design
- UX Design
- Web Design
Mabbly excels in building genuine partnerships with its clients, taking a comprehensive approach to each project to deliver striking designs that capture attention.
The studio is adept at pinpointing key brand challenges, such as inconsistent messaging or unclear target demographics. By addressing these issues, Mabbly crafts thoughtful solutions that help clients realize their full potential.
With experience spanning various industries including food and beverage, healthcare, and public relations Mabbly works with companies of all sizes, from startups to mid-market enterprises.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Startup to mid-market companies seeking ongoing support to refine their messaging and marketing strategies.
6. EightySeven
(Source: EightySeven)
Services Offered:
- Identity and Branding
- Brand Strategy
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Naming
- Packaging Design
- Sound and Motion Design
EightySeven specializes in brand development and strategy, offering a full range of services to help businesses create a cohesive and impactful brand identity. Their expertise extends to designing retail spaces and developing signage and environmental design.
The agency collaborates with clients across various sectors, including hospitality and leisure, food and beverage, real estate, technology, and fashion. EightySeven is well-equipped to address the design needs of most B2C brands.
Additionally, the firm provides brand assessments and rebranding services, making it an excellent choice for companies seeking to discover new market opportunities or revitalize their brand.
Locations: Chicago, Illinois; Brooklyn, New York
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Retail and hospitality businesses looking to build a brand from the ground up or pivot their positioning.
7. The Office of Experience
(Source: The Office of Experience)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Social Media Marketing
- Customer Journey and Experience
The Office of Experience (OX) stands out for its specialized focus on crafting impactful experiences and optimizing customer journeys through strategic design. Unlike more conventional design agencies, OX excels in reimagining how organizations engage with their customers from start to finish.
This agency is ideal for companies looking to overhaul their marketing strategy comprehensively. In addition to experience design, OX provides support with brand guidelines and print design.
Their diverse client roster includes industry leaders such as Mack Trucks, the Association of Supply Chain Management, and various B2B software and eCommerce brands.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Companies seeking comprehensive design support to enhance the entire customer journey.
8. Bark
(Source: Bark)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- App Design
- Graphic Design
- Print Design
- Social Media Marketing
- Naming
- Product Design
Bark Design is a full-service marketing agency deeply rooted in the Chicago community, known for its partnership with local non-profits and prestigious institutions. Their impressive portfolio includes work with organizations such as A Better Chicago, The Field Museum, the Chicago Park District, and The Nature Conservancy, highlighting their dedication to empowering purpose-driven entities in the city.
Bark Design’s approach focuses on helping clients develop a distinct voice and market presence through a meticulous five-step design process. This framework guides companies in defining their market position and deploying designs that stand out.
In addition to branding and visual identity, Bark Design excels in creating impactful building signage and environmental design solutions.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Educational institutions and non-profit organizations in the Chicago area seeking comprehensive design and marketing support.
9. Soulsight
(Source: Soulsight)
Services Offered:
- Identity and Branding
- Product Design
- Graphic Design
- Logo Design
- Messaging
Soulsight is a full-service branding agency dedicated to “building brands that move.” Known for creating edgy and engaging brand identities, Soulsight is a popular choice for companies seeking a comprehensive brand refresh to appeal to younger, discerning audiences.
Their diverse design services include product design, logo creation, identity development, and messaging. Soulsight’s notable portfolio features high-profile campaigns for brands such as Hershey’s, Coors Light, Nike, and Walgreens.
The agency also has a strong track record in rebranding sports teams, having worked with the Detroit Pistons and the Tennessee Titans. Soulsight is an excellent choice for companies in the sports and leisure sectors.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Companies looking to modernize their brand to resonate with a younger demographic.
10. Mauge
(Source: Mauge)
Services Offered:
- Product Design
- Identity and Branding
- Logo Design
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Ads and Social Media Design
- Print, Packaging, and Merchandise Design
Mauge may be one of the smaller agencies in this lineup, but its design work delivers exceptional quality and impact. Known for its meticulous attention to detail and client-focused approach, Mauge consistently provides design solutions that are genuinely aligned with each client’s brand.
With over 25 years of experience since its founding in 1995, Mauge has built a strong reputation for serving small to mid-sized businesses in the real estate, hospitality, and automotive industries. This specialized expertise makes Mauge a valuable creative partner for organizations in these sectors.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Smaller companies seeking a boutique design agency with extensive experience.
11. Pivot Design
(Source: Pivot Design)
Services Offered:
- Identity and Branding
- Naming
- Messaging
- Web Design
- Video Production and Animation
- Event Design
- Social Media Marketing
Pivot Design specializes in providing cutting-edge marketing services specifically for the healthcare sector. They cater to a range of industries including pharmaceuticals, life sciences, wellness, sports performance, and healthcare funding.
The agency is known for its unique approach to creating designs that forge emotional connections with audiences while adding a human touch to medical and healthcare brands.
Pivot Design’s client roster includes a mix of high-tech startups and major companies, such as Baxter, Meridian (Centene), and Signify Bio.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Companies in the healthcare and life sciences industries seeking specialized marketing and design solutions.
12. ArtVersion
(Source: ArtVersion)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Logo and Icon Design
- Signage and Environmental Design
- Packaging Design
- Product Design
- Presentations, eBooks, and Report Design
ArtVersion is a full-service design agency renowned for its innovation and expertise. Combining a deep understanding of print design with cutting-edge technology and trends, ArtVersion excels in creating impactful customer experiences.
The agency offers a comprehensive suite of services, including research, print design, and digital strategy, making it a strong choice for companies in the early stages of defining their market presence.
With a long-standing presence in the industry, ArtVersion has built an impressive portfolio, working with major clients such as Morgan Stanley, Caterpillar, Deutsche Bank, and Toyota, as well as supporting startups.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Emerging and established brands seeking a long-term, creative partner.
13. Kaleidoscope
(Source: Kaleidoscope)
Services Offered:
- UX/UI Design
- Packaging Design
- Product Design
- Identity and Branding
Kaleidoscope is a design and branding firm specializing in the retail industry. The agency excels in graphic design for food and drink brands, household goods, and technology products.
Kaleidoscope is particularly known for its expertise in developing packaging prototypes and guiding product concepts from initial ideation through to the final on-shelf design. This makes the agency an ideal partner for brands looking to enhance their presence in physical retail outlets.
Notable clients include Moët & Chandon, Duracell, Swiss Miss, and Dove.
Locations: Chicago, Illinois; New York City, New York
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Retail brands seeking a design partner with extensive experience in packaging and prototyping.
14. Monogram Group
(Source: Monogram Group)
Services Offered:
- Graphic Design
- Web Design
- Social Media Marketing
- Identity and Branding
- Video Production
- Presentation Design
Monogram Group is an award-winning design agency with deep roots in Chicago. The firm offers a diverse range of services, including creative design, brand strategy, data analysis, and market research. Their comprehensive brand stewardship encompasses digital campaigns, trade show support, and brand optimization.
Monogram serves clients across various industries, including green energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and business consulting. The agency also has significant experience working with venture capital firms, making it an excellent choice for companies in the finance and investment sectors.
Primarily focused on large multinational corporations, Monogram Group has established a strong reputation for collaborating with enterprise-level clients.
Locations: Chicago, Illinois; Charlotte, North Carolina; Greenwood Village, Colorado
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Multinationals and enterprise-level companies seeking comprehensive brand stewardship alongside design services.
15. ColorJar
(Source ColorJar)
Services Offered:
- Identity and Branding
- Web Design
- Graphic Design
- Logo Design
- Packaging Design
- Environmental Design
ColorJar caters to organizations of all sizes, from emerging startups to established enterprises. The agency has created some of Chicago’s most notable design work, including the updated logo and packaging for Navy Pier.
ColorJar stands out for its “speed branding” service, specifically designed to help new businesses launch effectively. This makes it a great choice for startups looking to carve out a niche in the city.
The firm operates across various industries, including real estate, food and beverage, cybersecurity, sports and leisure, and hospitality.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Pricing: Available upon request.
Ideal For: Startups and smaller businesses seeking to establish their presence in Chicago.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s design and creative industry is brimming with talent and innovation in 2024. The 15 agencies highlighted in this list exemplify the city’s vibrant and dynamic creative landscape. From local experts with a deep understanding of the Chicago market to firms with national and global reach, each agency brings unique strengths and specialized expertise to the table.
When choosing a creative partner, it’s essential to consider factors such as local insight, agency capabilities, and alignment with your brand’s goals. By following the outlined steps for selecting the right agency, you can streamline your decision-making process and find a partner that will help you achieve your creative vision.
These agencies are not just shaping the visual and cultural narrative of Chicago they are setting new standards and driving the future of design. Whether you’re looking to launch a new brand your existing identity, or develop cutting-edge digital experiences, these top agencies offer the innovation, expertise, and dedication needed to turn your ideas into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What makes Chicago’s design and creative industry stand out in 2024?
Chicago’s design and creative industry is distinguished by its diverse range of agencies that blend traditional design principles with innovative digital strategies. The city is home to firms pushing boundaries in branding, digital experiences, and advertising campaigns, making it a hub for creative excellence and artistic innovation.
How do I choose the best design and creative agency for my business in Chicago?
To select the right design agency, follow these steps:
- Research and Shortlist: Identify potential agencies by evaluating their portfolios and client testimonials to match their expertise with your needs.
- Tap into Local Expertise: Choose an agency with deep knowledge of the Chicago market to ensure your design resonates with local audiences.
- Assess Pricing and Scalability: Ensure the agency offers transparent pricing and can scale its services as your needs evolve.
What should I consider when evaluating a design agency’s portfolio?
When assessing a portfolio, look for:
- Relevance: Work samples should align with your industry and design needs.
- Creativity and Quality: Evaluate the creativity, execution, and overall quality of the designs.
- Client Testimonials: Positive feedback from previous clients can provide insight into the agency’s reliability and effectiveness.
How important is local expertise when selecting a creative agency?
Local expertise is crucial for creating designs that resonate with the target audience. An agency familiar with Chicago’s market can tailor its strategies to better align with local trends, preferences, and cultural nuances, enhancing the effectiveness of your marketing efforts.
What should I expect in terms of pricing from Chicago’s design agencies?
Pricing varies among agencies and is typically available upon request. Most agencies offer customized quotes based on the scope of the project, complexity, and specific requirements. Be sure to discuss your budget and get a clear cost estimate to avoid unexpected expenses.
