Ignite Social Media
About the Company
Ignite Social Media was founded in 2007 and is recognized as the original social media agency in the United States. It has consistently specialized in social media marketing, avoiding expansions into related fields like web development or PR. This laser focus has helped the company stand out and gain recognition among some of the world's most prominent brands. Ignite's team of 37 employees works to create tailored solutions for clients using strategies rooted in social media best practices. In addition to Ignite, Jim Tobin launched Carusele in 2015, focusing on influencer marketing, further cementing his expertise in the evolving social media landscape.
Idea Behind Company
The inspiration for Ignite Social Media came to Jim Tobin as an epiphany in 2006. Social media platforms were in their infancy, with Facebook just introducing photo uploads and Twitter launching that same year. Recognizing the untapped potential of social media, Tobin conceptualized a dedicated agency focusing solely on this emerging field. The idea was to help brands navigate uncharted waters by leveraging new tools to engage audiences. Tobin believed that entrepreneurship was not about risk but about being comfortable with uncertainty, which helped him commit to this venture despite the unknowns.
Creating the Company
The process of building Ignite began with a simple website and a blog discussing social media trends and insights. Tobin and his initial team of two employees worked tirelessly to experiment, learn, and grow the business. Early offerings included services like "Friendster Profile Creation," which reflected the evolving nature of the industry. The company’s first clients came from Tobin’s existing advertising agency connections. They focused on creating innovative projects like blogs for technology companies and engagement platforms for labor unions, which allowed them to learn on the job and build credibility in a brand-new space.
Launching the Business
To minimize risk, Tobin and his business partner self-funded Ignite Social Media, splitting their time and resources between the new venture and their existing roles. The agency’s blog became a powerful tool for attracting clients, bringing in major brands like Microsoft, Intel, and Nature Made early on. From the outset, the company prioritized client success, a core value that has driven its growth. Ignite’s organic search presence and strong client referrals remain key drivers of business, highlighting the importance of sharing expertise and building trust.
Earnings
Today, Ignite Social Media generates $500K in monthly revenue and has adapted to the constant changes in the social media landscape. The agency experienced significant growth in 2020 as marketing budgets shifted towards social media and influencer campaigns. By focusing on its niche, Ignite has been able to maintain a leadership position in the industry. However, challenges such as changes in data tracking and platform algorithms require the company to stay agile and innovative. With a focus on continued adaptation and leveraging lessons from books like *The Origin of Brands*, Tobin remains committed to keeping Ignite at the forefront of social media marketing.
