8 Proven AI SEO Agencies Startups Trust for Results

You’re making a smart move by searching for an AI SEO agency that delivers results for startups. The global SEO market shows explosive growth from $82.3 billion in 2023 to a projected $143.9 billion by 2030. Companies see an impressive $22 return on every dollar invested in SEO.

Your startup should seize this valuable chance. The digital world has fundamentally changed, with 78% of organizations now using AI in at least one business function and 71% keep taking generative AI. AI tools now analyze data at scales human teams simply cannot match. Startups that team up with top AI SEO services achieve remarkable results. To name just one example, clients working with specialized seo services for startups see their organic traffic triple, while experiencing about 90% growth in lead generation among a 60% boost in sales year-over-year. A recent analysis of 50 websites revealed homepage traffic jumped 10.7% through AI Overviews and large language models.

Want to find the perfect AI SEO company that matches your growth goals? We’ve identified eight proven agencies that combine innovative technology with startup-focused strategies. These agencies help you compete with bigger players without straining your budget.

 

 

1. Mike Khorev

Mike Khorev is an independent AI SEO consultant who works directly with tech startups. He brings 10 years of experience in SEO, content marketing, and web development to create custom strategies that fit each client’s needs.

1.2 Key Features

Mike combines technical expertise with practical implementation. His IT background lets him execute solutions directly, not just recommend them. His hands-on approach builds on five key pillars:

• Tech-Specific Focus Specialized knowledge in SaaS, IT, and technology sectors
• Data-Driven Execution Analytical approach using ChatGPT, Ahrefs, Perplexity, and Gemini
• AI Integration Content optimization for platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity
• Full-Funnel Strategy Targeting ideal customer personas throughout their experience
• Attribution Modeling Finding growth bottlenecks and optimizing channels for maximum ROI

Mike’s services include technical audits, content strategy development, strategic link building, and conversion rate optimization. He specializes in optimizing for both traditional search engines and new AI platforms.

Clients work directly with Mike instead of junior team members. This personal attention makes his service valuable for tech startups that need specialized AI search expertise.

1.3 Results

The numbers tell Mike’s success story. He helps 86% of clients reach Google’s top 10 rankings within 6 months. His portfolio shows impressive results:

Time Doctor:

• Scaled to 20,000 monthly trials
• Acquired 7,000 new customers monthly
• Achieved 10% month-over-month revenue growth

BuildFire:

• Grew to 1,000 customers
• Powered 10,000+ apps
• Drew 140,000 monthly organic visitors

Mike’s clients typically triple their organic traffic and see about 90% more leads with 60% higher sales year-over-year. His website gets over 30,000 organic clicks monthly, showing his expertise firsthand.

1.4 Pricing

Services start at $3,500 monthly and include expert-led strategy, AI-powered content optimization, technical SEO, and hands-on performance tracking. Each package needs a 6-month commitment. Startups with tight budgets can choose flexible options like fractional CMO services and project-based work.

1.5 Best Startups for Mike Khorev

Mike’s AI SEO services work best for:

• B2B software companies and SaaS providers His technical market knowledge helps create content that connects with decision-makers
• Funded startups ready to scale Mike suggests a 60/40 split between paid campaigns and foundational SEO for faster growth
• Tech companies with complex products He excels at explaining technical information that appeals to both human readers and AI search tools
• Fintech organizations His approach helps financial technology companies build trust in regulated environments
• Healthcare tech companies His strategies fit specialized industries with technical terminology

Mike Khorev delivers focused, high-ROI AI SEO strategies that help growth-oriented startups compete in technical markets.

 

2. Nine Peaks Media

Nine Peaks Media has evolved into a powerhouse B2B SEO agency since 2009 with remarkable credentials. The agency has helped over 60 SaaS, software, and technology companies secure first-page Google rankings.

2.2 Key Features

The life-blood of Nine Peaks’ approach is their SEO Growth Program, which builds on five strategic pillars:

• Keyword Discovery and Mapping They find search terms matching real buying behavior using Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google Search Console
• Technical Site Audits The core team digs into mobile responsiveness, load speed, and indexation problems to fix hidden issues
• On-Site Enhancements They improve internal linking and site layout to boost crawlability and user involvement
• Content Strategy Development Performance analysis helps uncover fresh topics that line up with audience interests
• Backlink Strategy Their in-house outreach team secures placements through HARO, strategic collaborations, and curated link insertions

Nine Peaks stands out because they keep all work in-house without outsourcing. Their AI SEO expertise includes optimization for ChatGPT, Perplexity, and AI Overviews, plus international SEO services for global tech companies.

2.3 Results

Numbers reveal Nine Peaks’ impact clearly:

• A cybersecurity company’s organic traffic grew by 167% while marketing qualified leads rose by 111% in 12 months
• A brand protection business saw 159% more organic traffic and 194% more marketing qualified leads
• A cloud desktop company achieved 150% organic traffic growth and 120% more marketing qualified leads
• A marketing automation client increased daily visitors from 1,200 to 3,000, with search impressions rising by 130-140% in one year

A client testimonial states: “Their forward-thinking approach has given our tech company a real edge. The combination of authoritative backlinks, optimized content, and AI SEO services has strengthened our domain authority and delivered tangible business results”.

2.4 Pricing

Each package needs a six-month commitment. New clients usually start with a 2-month term before moving to a 6-month rolling engagement. Services include link building initiatives, technical SEO improvements, on-page optimization, and AI-driven content strategy.

2.5 Best Startups for Nine Peaks Media

Nine Peaks delivers exceptional results for:

• B2B tech companies selling complex products with longer sales cycles
• Cybersecurity firms, global IoT companies, and cloud desktop providers
• Post-funding startups investing in organic customer acquisition
• Financial SaaS platforms targeting financial institutions

Companies working with Nine Peaks typically triple organic traffic, generate 90% more leads, and achieve 60% year-over-year sales growth.

 

3. RevenueZen

RevenueZen has established itself as a specialized growth partner for B2B SaaS companies since 2017. Their AI-powered approach has helped them build strategic collaborations with over 300 B2B SaaS and professional services companies in the last six years.

3.2 Key Features

RevenueZen’s Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) system helps brands consistently show up in AI-driven search results. Their methodology includes:

• Subject matter expert interview-led content creation
• Technical SEO audits and implementation
• Full-funnel SEO strategies for B2B SaaS
• AI visibility analytics and attribution tracking
• Strategic link building campaigns

Their five-step approach:

1. Analyze Intent-based keyword research, competitor analysis, content audits, technical SEO examinations
2. Grow Improve title tags, site performance, URL structure
3. Expand Scale performance through content production and link building
4. Verify Improve lead quality from MQLs to SQLs
5. Refine Measure ROI by analyzing pipeline value and closed deals

3.3 Results

RevenueZen client results include:

• Expensify saw a 50% increase in SEO-sourced product sign-ups within 6 months
• Incfile achieved a 300% boost in organic search-sourced revenue in 12 months
• An enterprise SaaS client generated $3.80M in pipeline directly from organic search in year one
• RevenueZen clients average 384% growth in organic traffic

They also track demo request conversion rates averaging 21.7% and measure pipeline contribution from organic channels.

3.4 Pricing

Clients can choose month-to-month pricing without long-term commitments. Six-month and 12-month contracts offer better rates. G2 reports show clients typically invest between $3,000 to $10,000 monthly based on their needs.

3.5 Best Startups for RevenueZen

RevenueZen delivers the best results for:

• B2B SaaS companies that want qualified organic leads
• Early-stage startups aiming for sustainable growth without draining resources
• Technical startups getting ready for AI search disruptions while building traditional ranking authority
• Forward-thinking companies that want transparent ROI reporting for funding rounds
• Professional services firms in finance and renewable energy sectors

Their blend of SEO and LinkedIn-based lead generation creates multi-channel visibility strategies that work especially well for early-stage B2B startups.

 

4. Loopex Digital

Loopex Digital stands out as an AI-powered SEO agency that delivers proven results for startups in many industries. The agency has helped 540+ businesses reach top Google positions and generated over $972 million in client revenue.

4.2 Key Features

The agency’s core strength lies in its revenue-focused SEO approach. They excel at:

• Custom AI strategies with proprietary automation tools for technical audits and link prospecting
• Complete SEO services including link building, digital PR, technical audits, content strategy, international SEO, and local SEO
• Systematic LLM optimization based on proven formulas
• Digital PR expertise that lands coverage in major publications like Forbes, Huffington Post, and Entrepreneur

They secure about 3,000 high-quality editorial backlinks each month. Their technical audits follow a detailed 250-point checklist. Their AI-powered tools help them develop new processes within two weeks of Google updates.

4.3 Results

Case studies include:

• Gaming clients earned 20+ backlinks from top gaming sites using a newsjacking strategy
• A SaaS client’s traffic grew to 5,600+ monthly visitors with just five pages using a content silo strategy
• An e-commerce client’s organic users grew by 111.94% while transactions increased by 102.70%
• WorkYard grew organic traffic by 1,839% in 21 months and ranked for 3,874 new top-10 keywords

They report that 86% of clients reach Google’s top 10 rankings within 6 months.

4.4 Pricing

Their rates include technical audits, content writing, and implementation with no hidden costs. Clients can work month-to-month and adjust or pause packages anytime.

4.5 Best Startups for Loopex Digital

Best for:

• Startups planning global expansion
• Companies needing penalty recovery and technical fixes
• E-commerce startups scaling category and product SEO
• SaaS startups using content silo strategies
• Fintech companies needing compliance-friendly SEO and strong EEAT alignment

 

5. Simple Tiger

SimpleTiger has spent over 15 years helping SaaS businesses grow through AI-powered SEO. Founded in 2006, the agency works exclusively with SaaS companies, from early funding through acquisition and IPO.

5.2 Key Features

SimpleTiger employs AI-powered solutions that speed up SEO timelines without compromising quality:

• Proprietary AI Technology Machine learning algorithms assess keyword opportunities and identify high-value targets
• GEO Optimization Optimizes content for ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews
• Complete Technical SEO Improves speed, mobile performance, and technical barriers
• Strategic Content Marketing Content aligned with intent to drive demos and trials
• High-Impact Link Building Backlinks through guest posting and influencer connections

A client said: “They are data-driven, they know our business inside-out which is very rare to find in an agency partner”.

5.3 Results

SimpleTiger results include:

• Gelato increased first-page rankings by 1200% in 12 months and ranked for 75,000 new keywords in year one
• Segment increased organic traffic to target pages by 127% in two months
• ContractWorks grew organic traffic by 258% over 12 months and attracted 70,000+ new users
• Invoca increased organic traffic by 450% year-over-year and generated $1.50M in sales pipeline from organic search in eight months
• JotForm reached number one for its main keyword in two months with a 597% organic traffic increase

5.4 Pricing

Packages start at about 5% of revenue or funding.

5.5 Best Startups for SimpleTiger

Best for:

• Funded SaaS startups seeking rapid organic growth
• B2B, B2C, and B2B2C SaaS companies from seed through IPO
• Teams committed to long-term SEO investment and capability building

 

6. Outpace

Outpace brings deep technical expertise to SEO. Their Oklahoma City-based team includes computer scientists who make up about half their workforce.

6.2 Key Features

Outpace uses a scientific approach to SEO:

• Algorithm Expertise Technical teams understand how search algorithms are built
• Data-Driven Strategy Focus on ranking inputs that matter
• Experimental Approach Tests variables and adapts as engines change
• AI Optimization Services Answer Engine Optimization and Generative Engine Optimization
• Conversion Focus Targets converting traffic rather than vanity metrics

6.3 Results

Clients report improved rankings, lead growth, and better engagement after implementing Outpace recommendations. The agency maintains a 5-star rating, with eight new SEO service reviews in the last six months.

6.4 Pricing

Each plan includes keyword research, competitive analysis, and full website audits. They also offer a free SEO audit they value at $240,000.

6.5 Best Startups for Outpace

Best for:

• Tech startups that want measurable quarterly progress
• Funded startups needing results within 12 months
• Businesses with technical SEO issues needing quick wins
• Teams wanting direct access to senior strategists

 

7. Intero Digital

Intero Digital merges decades of marketing experience with AI-driven technology. They report a team of 400+ marketing professionals.

7.2 Key Features

Their proprietary technology includes:

• InteroBOT® A patented AI crawler simulation tool that analyzes websites like search engines
• Intero GRO™ Generative Response Optimization for AI-generated search visibility
• A service mix spanning SEO, PPC, content marketing, digital strategy, social, and web design

7.3 Results

Reported results include:

• A cloud software company achieved $22M revenue growth in 2 years
• A sporting goods company saw 86% growth in organic revenue
• A luxury resort chain’s paid media ROI increased 126% in one year
• Aggressive SEO implementation led to 538% more organic leads
• Classy Closets saw 443% growth in first-page rankings and secured 4,500+ keywords on Google’s first page

7.4 Pricing

• Hourly rates from $100-$149
• Project costs from $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on scope, competition, and timeline goals

7.5 Best Startups for Intero Digital

Best for:

• Small businesses needing comprehensive digital marketing
• B2B companies optimizing service pages for lead generation
• E-commerce businesses boosting category and product rankings

 

8. Search Engine People

Search Engine People has helped 3,000+ businesses adapt through major search updates. This Canadian AI SEO agency uses a proprietary tech stack that blends third-party and first-party data.

8.2 Key Features

Their offerings include:

• Technical AI SEO audits for structure and schema
• AI-optimized content strategy using question-focused pages
• E-E-A-T strengthening to support trust signals
• Data warehousing for long-term trend visibility

They combine SEO with Answer Engine Optimization and Generative Engine Optimization for broader visibility.

8.3 Results

Clients highlight responsiveness and transparency. One VP of Marketing reports they were kept aware of all work, and another client turned an experimental search effort into a dedicated lead generation channel.

8.4 Pricing

Retainers start at $1,500 per month. Entry-level work includes custom content strategy, quality inbound links, and ongoing technical improvements.

8.5 Best Startups for Search Engine People

Best for:

• B2B marketing firms needing white-label, multi-channel execution
• Companies optimizing AI visibility on Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and other LLMs
• Businesses ready to turn SEO into a revenue-generating acquisition channel

 

Comparison Table

Agency	Key Features	Notable Results	Starting Price	Best For
Mike Khorev	Tech-specific focus Analytics-based execution AI integration Full-funnel strategy	86% clients reach top 10 in 6 months Time Doctor: 20,000 monthly trials BuildFire: 140,000 monthly organic visitors	$2,500/month	B2B Software, SaaS, Funded Startups
Nine Peaks Media	Keyword research Technical audits In-house work AI optimization	167% organic traffic growth111% increase in qualified leads 130–140% search impression growth	$3,000	B2B Tech, Cybersecurity, Global IoT
RevenueZen	GEO system SME interview content Full-funnel SEO AI visibility metrics	384% average organic traffic growth $3.80M pipeline generation 21.7% demo request conversion	$2,500	B2B SaaS, Early-stage Startups
Loopex Digital	Custom AI strategies Digital PR expertise 250-point technical audit International SEO	111.94% organic user increase 1,839% organic traffic growth 86% reach top 10 in 6 months	$1,000	E-commerce, SaaS, Fintech
SimpleTiger	Proprietary AI tech GEO optimization Technical SEO Strategic content	1200% increase in rankings 450% YoY organic traffic $1.50M sales pipeline	5% of revenue	Funded SaaS, B2B/B2C Software
Outpace	Algorithm expertise Information-based strategy AI optimization Conversion focus	Perfect 5-star rating Improved user engagement	$1,000/project	Tech Startups, Funded Companies
Intero Digital	Intero BOT technology Intero GRO system Multi-channel approach	$22M revenue growth in 2 years 538% organic lead increase 443% first-page ranking growth	$100/hour	B2B Companies, E-commerce
Search Engine People	Technical AI audits AI-optimized content E-E-A-T focus Data housing	Not mentioned in detail	$1,500	B2B Marketing Firms, AI-focused Companies

 

Conclusion

Picking the right AI SEO agency can make or break your startup’s success. The eight agencies we discussed are the best at blending artificial intelligence with proven search optimization strategies. Each one brings something special to the table and delivers great results. These agencies stand out because they focus on different types of businesses and growth stages. Mike Khorev works wonders with B2B software companies. Nine Peaks Media shines with cybersecurity firms. RevenueZen knows exactly what early-stage SaaS startups need, and Loopex Digital has mastered the e-commerce space. Money matters in this choice. You can start with Loopex Digital at just $1,000 per month, and costs go up based on how big your company is and what you want to achieve. SimpleTiger does things differently – they charge about 5% of your revenue, which means their success is tied to yours. The technical muscle varies among these providers. Outpace has computer scientists who know algorithms inside out. Intero Digital uses their patented InteroBOT® technology to match search engine crawlers. These technical differences can really shape your results. Your industry should guide your choice. Each agency knows certain sectors better – from fintech to healthcare technology. This focused knowledge helps them get better results faster and make your marketing budget work harder. The numbers tell an amazing story. Companies typically earn $22 for every dollar they put into SEO. Your startup shouldn’t miss this chance, especially with the right team showing the way. The AI SEO world changes faster every day. You need agencies that understand both traditional search and AI-generated results to succeed across all platforms. Having both skills isn’t optional anymore – it’s essential. Here’s the real kicker: The right AI SEO partner can triple your organic traffic and bring in 90% more leads while boosting yearly sales by 60%. These aren’t small improvements – they’re the sort of results that can take your startup to new heights. Ready to move forward? Look at these agencies based on what you need, what you can spend, and where you want to go. Talk to several of them. Ask tough questions about how they’ll handle your industry. Look at case studies from similar businesses. This homework will help you find the perfect AI SEO partner to power your growth.

 

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right AI SEO agency can transform your startup’s growth trajectory, with companies typically seeing $22 return for every dollar invested in SEO.

• Specialized expertise matters most – Agencies like Mike Khorev excel with B2B software while Nine Peaks dominates cybersecurity, making industry focus crucial for faster results.
• AI-powered SEO delivers exceptional ROI – Startups partnering with top AI SEO agencies typically triple organic traffic and see 90% more leads with 60% sales growth year-over-year.
• Budget flexibility exists across all growth stages – Options range from $1,000/month (Loopex Digital) to revenue-based pricing (SimpleTiger at 5%), ensuring solutions for every startup budget.
• Technical capabilities create competitive advantages – Agencies like Outpace employ computer scientists while Intero Digital uses patented InteroBOT® technology to deliver superior algorithm understanding.
• Dual optimization is now essential – The best agencies optimize for both traditional search engines and AI-generated results (ChatGPT, Perplexity, AI Overviews) to future-proof your visibility.

The AI SEO landscape is rapidly evolving, making it critical to partner with agencies that understand both current search dynamics and emerging AI platforms. Your startup’s success depends on choosing a specialized partner that aligns with your industry, budget, and growth objectives while delivering measurable business outcomes beyond vanity metrics.

 

FAQs

Q1. What are the key features to look for in an AI SEO agency?

Look for agencies that offer data-driven strategies, proprietary AI tools, technical expertise, and a focus on measurable business outcomes rather than just vanity metrics. The best agencies combine AI capabilities with human expertise and tailor their approach to your specific industry and growth stage.

Q2. How much should I expect to pay for AI SEO services?

Pricing varies widely, but you can find quality AI SEO services starting from around $1,000 to $3,000 per month. Some agencies, like SimpleTiger, offer pricing based on a percentage of revenue. Always consider the potential ROI, as companies typically see a $22 return for every dollar invested in SEO.

Q3. How long does it take to see results from AI SEO efforts?

While timelines can vary, many top agencies report significant improvements within 6-12 months. For example, 86% of Mike Khorev’s clients reach Google’s top 10 rankings within 6 months. However, SEO is an ongoing process, and the most substantial results often come from consistent, long-term efforts.

Q4. What types of businesses benefit most from AI SEO services?

AI SEO services are particularly effective for B2B SaaS companies, e-commerce businesses, funded startups ready to scale, and companies in technical or rapidly evolving industries. However, businesses of all types can benefit from AI-powered SEO strategies tailored to their specific needs and market.

Q5. How do AI SEO agencies measure success?

Top AI SEO agencies focus on metrics that directly impact your business, such as organic traffic growth, lead generation, and revenue increases. They often use advanced analytics tools to track these metrics, along with improvements in search rankings, domain authority, and conversion rates. Some agencies also measure visibility in AI-generated search results.