How to find a PR Agency in 2026: Checklist for Startups
Finding a PR agency in 2026 isn’t just about Googling “PR agency UK” and picking the first name you see. The PR world has changed. AI, data-driven strategies, and digital-first campaigns are now essential. The agencies that stand out aren’t just creative—they know how to use AI to get your story noticed faster, generate backlinks, and boost visibility online.
Whether you’re a London startup or elsewhere in the UK, this guide will help you find the right PR agency, evaluate their expertise, and make sure they can deliver real results. If you’re wondering how to know when your Startup is ready for a PR agency, we’ve got you covered.
7 key takeaways: How to find a PR agency
How to find a PR Agency:
- Ask your network – Other founders, investors, or marketers can give real recommendations.
- Search online and with AI tools – Use Google or ChatGPT to find agencies by location, sector, or service.
- Check social media – LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok show creativity, thought leadership, and team culture.
- Browse awards and ranking: PRWeek , CIPR to PRMoment Awards highlight agencies with proven results.
- Search by campaigns you admire – Find agencies behind campaigns that impressed you
What to look for in a PR agency
- AI-savvy and up-to-date – They should use AI for media monitoring, real-time insights, brand tracking, and backlinks.
- Team, approach, and culture fit – The agency should feel like part of your team and align with your values.
- Experience and track record – Case studies, measurable results, and strong UK/London media relationships matter.
Top 5 things Startups should look for in a PR agency in 2026
Before you start looking, get familiar with the latest trends, what a solid PR approach looks like, and how AI fits into the process.
- AI-powered media tracking – Finds the right journalists and blogs in London and the UK so your story gets noticed quickly.
- Data-driven stories – Turns surveys, research, or insights into articles and backlinks.
- Show your leadership – Puts founders and team members in interviews, podcasts, and articles to build trust.
- Multi-channel storytelling – Shares news across press, social media, blogs, podcasts, and video.
- Results you can see – Increases website traffic, leads, backlinks, and brand mentions—not just press clippings.
How to choose the right PR agency in 2026
1. Define your PR goals
- Set your goals – Brand awareness, investor attention, product launch buzz, or crisis management.
- Clarify your needs – Knowing your objectives helps you find the right PR agency faster.
- Ask or search – Ask your network or Google your brand objectives to confirm priorities.
- Have a rough plan – Contact agencies with a basic idea to avoid being oversold.
2. Check experience
- Relevant sector experience – Has the agency worked with similar brands?
- Proven results – Can they show measurable outcomes?
- Media relationships – Strong connections with UK/London journalists and publications.
3. Assess team & approach
- Industry understanding – The agency should know your sector and audience.
- Media-friendly storytelling – They translate your story into content that works for press, blogs, and podcasts.
- Data & AI insights – Provides strategic guidance informed by AI and real-time data.
4. Check fit & culture
- Shared values – Collaboration works best when your agency’s values align with yours.
- Communication style – Make sure their approach complements your team and workflow.
5. Confirm deliverables
- Pricing & packages – Compare costs and service options.
- References & testimonials – Check past client feedback.
- KPIs & timelines – Ensure clear expectations and measurable outcomes.
Working with Words+Pixels
We work with a range of brands across tech, health, and consumer goods, including Red Bull, Lime, Hims & Hers, Graze, Hootsuite, Back Market, DREO, Flash Pack, and Hammerhead. Our focus is on supporting both Startups and established companies with PR and marketing to increase visibility and manage growth.
Key Clients & Sectors:
- Energy & Beverage: Red Bull, BACX (plant-based performance drink)
- Health & Wellness: Hims & Hers, Birdie (elderly care tech), Social Ability (dementia care)
- Tech & SaaS: Hootsuite, DREO (smart home), Hammerhead (cycling tech), Cypher (coding skills), Monolith AI
- Food & Retail: Graze (healthy snacks), Back Market (refurbished electronics)
- Travel: Flash Pack (solo travel), City Pantry (now part of Just Eat for Business)
- Mobility: Lime (e-scooters)
Check our our PR Success Stories
Every campaign, pitch, and story is tailored to your brand’s moment and audience. Ready to take the next step? Contact us to discuss your PR goals and see how we can help you succeed.
FAQs: Choosing the right PR Agency
1. When is the right time to hire a PR agency?
Launching, scaling, fundraising, or repositioning are key moments to start PR But there’s never really a wrong time. Explore our Startup School and Scaleup School for guidance.
2. How do I know if my Startup is ready for PR?
If you have clear goals—brand awareness, investor attention, or product launch buzz—you’re ready to explore agencies. Otherwise, clarify your objectives first.
3. Can I get PR results without an agency?
Yes, but agencies bring expertise, established media relationships, and strategic insight that increase your chances of success.
4. What makes a PR agency right for my Startup?
Look for experience in your sector, measurable results, strong media connections, and a team that aligns with your values and workflow.
5. Do PR agencies guarantee media coverage?
No reputable agency guarantees coverage. They provide strategy, pitching expertise, and consistent effort to maximize visibility and results.
6. How important is AI in a PR agency today?
Very. Agencies using AI can track brand mentions, identify journalists quickly, generate insights, and measure campaign impact in real time.
