Meet the Marketing Innovators of Tomorrow
Every year, a new wave of marketing leaders redefines how brands interact with audiences. The 2026 Forbes 30 Under 30 Marketing & Advertising list showcases a dynamic group of entrepreneurs, creatives, and strategists who are transforming the industry through innovation, community, and commerce.
One such trailblazer is Avante Price, 24, who left NYU to co-found Posh along with Eli Taylor-Lemire in 2020. The platform enables users to discover events, connect with attendees, and host their own gatherings. With over 6 million users and more than $300 million in ticket sales, Posh generated $10 million in revenue in 2024 alone. The company’s success lies in its focus on building human-to-human connections, making it a standout in the current landscape where community is at the center of commerce.
AI as the New Creative Partner
Artificial intelligence is playing a pivotal role in reshaping the marketing process. At Rella, cofounders Natalie Barbu (29), Natacha Bomparte (26), Connor Boyce (27), and Nick Kane (27) introduced Ella, an AI-powered creative assistant. The tool aids influencers and marketing teams in planning, brainstorming, and campaign analysis, streamlining the creative process.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Adzich (28) and Adam Rodriguez (26) of WKNDHRS harness AI to generate over 1,000 creative requests monthly for clients, ranging from content development to photo shoots. Their approach has propelled the company past $5 million in revenue. Similarly, Brennen Bliss (26), founder of Propellic, leverages AI to help travel brands like Frommers and Phocuswright optimize their social media strategy, ensuring their content reaches the right audiences.
Innovation Within Legacy Brands
Not all game-changers are founders. Some are making waves from within established companies. Terenze Coleman (29), the first U.S. marketing hire at Musicow, specializes in IP marketing, helping artists and labels monetize their music catalogs. His work is redefining how intellectual property is leveraged in the music industry.
In the sports world, Donny Brock (28), the marketing design manager for the Seattle Seahawks, created a visually engaging 2025 NFL Draft campaign that surpassed one million user engagements. His strategy of using social storytelling has become a model for community building in sports marketing.
Over in the fashion industry, Scott Lloyd (29) has led SKIMS—Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand—from a presence in four countries to more than 30 within a single year. He’s also spearheaded high-impact campaigns featuring collaborations with Dolce & Gabbana, The North Face, Roberto Cavalli, and Team USA.
Transforming Traditional Media
Even longstanding media houses are being reinvented from the inside. Alexandra Cooney (29), the youngest Senior Director at Condé Nast, turned eBay from a negligible advertiser into the company’s most successful partnership to date. Her forward-thinking approach demonstrates how established institutions can evolve by embracing innovative marketing strategies.
Shaping a New Era of Brand Engagement
This year’s list highlights a generational shift in how brands connect with consumers. These young leaders are embracing everything from AI-driven campaigns to immersive social experiences and viral TikTok strategies to build authentic relationships with audiences.
Far from being merely tech savants, these marketers understand that today’s consumers crave real connection. Whether through community-based platforms like Posh or data-driven creative tools like Ella, the focus remains on deepening engagement.
The Selection Process
To be considered for the 2026 list, candidates had to be 29 or younger as of December 31, 2025, and not previously selected for a Forbes Under 30 list in Europe, North America, or Asia. The process involved nominations from alumni, public submissions, internal research, and insights from a prestigious panel of judges including William White (Walmart CMO), DonYé Taylor (Founder of Taylored Consulting, Forbes 30 Under 30 2023), Tamera Ferro (CMO of Sol De Janeiro), and Asad Ayaz (CMO of Disney).
The final list reflects a diverse cohort: 33% identify as people of color, 51% are women or non-binary, and 64% are founders. Their stories not only represent personal success but also a reimagining of what marketing can be in an era driven by technology and human connection.
This article is inspired by content from Original Source. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.