In the high-velocity world of digital marketing, creativity reigns supreme. Over the years, many brands have risen to prominence not solely due to their products but because of their bold, intelligent, and memorable marketing maneuvers. In this guide, we will dive into examples of successful internet marketing campaigns that have reshaped industries, built empires, and left a lasting digital footprint. Each campaign you’ll read about offers insight, inspiration, and innovation that continues to influence the marketing landscape.
1. Nike’s “You Can’t Stop Us” Campaign
Nike is a colossus of sports branding, but it’s their digital campaigns that have often stolen the spotlight. Their “You Can’t Stop Us” video campaign was a masterclass in emotionally charged storytelling, launched in the thick of global uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The campaign featured a mesmerizing split-screen format showing athletes from different sports executing seamless, synchronized movements. It delivered a strong message of unity, perseverance, and inclusion—all while reinforcing Nike’s values. With over 58 million views on YouTube and countless shares across social platforms, it became one of the most widely praised examples of successful internet marketing campaigns in modern history.
2. Old Spice – “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like”
This hilariously offbeat campaign transformed Old Spice from a dated deodorant brand into a pop-culture phenomenon. What began as a simple commercial featuring Isaiah Mustafa quickly spiraled into a viral sensation.
Old Spice’s marketing team leveraged YouTube for personalized video responses, creating hundreds of custom messages for fans and celebrities. Engagement exploded. This bold, tongue-in-cheek campaign is widely regarded as one of the most iconic examples of successful internet marketing campaigns, proving that humor, when done right, is a powerful weapon.
3. ALS Association – “Ice Bucket Challenge”
In terms of virality, few campaigns can hold a candle to the Ice Bucket Challenge. What started as a grassroots initiative soon became a global movement. Celebrities, politicians, and everyday people all joined in, dumping ice water over their heads to raise awareness and funds for ALS research.
The genius of this campaign lay in its simplicity and shareability. It leveraged peer influence, video content, and social media—all with zero media spend. With over $115 million raised, it stands as a shining example among the most impactful examples of successful internet marketing campaigns.
4. Dove – “Real Beauty Sketches”
Dove’s mission to redefine beauty standards culminated in their heartfelt “Real Beauty Sketches” campaign. In this campaign, an FBI-trained sketch artist drew women based on their self-descriptions, and then again based on how strangers described them. The difference was staggering—and emotional.
The video quickly went viral, amassing over 114 million views in its first month. It ignited conversations around self-image and societal expectations, firmly positioning Dove as a champion of authentic beauty. Among the examples of successful internet marketing campaigns, this stands out for its depth and emotional resonance.
5. Airbnb – “We Are Here” Instagram Campaign
Airbnb’s brilliance in digital marketing often lies in its immersive storytelling. With “We Are Here,” they used Instagram Live to take audiences into the heart of real-time local experiences in cities across the globe.
This campaign wasn’t just about accommodation—it was about creating and sharing memorable adventures. The result? Skyrocketing engagement, enhanced brand trust, and a surge in bookings. It’s no surprise this is among the leading examples of successful internet marketing campaigns, especially in travel and lifestyle sectors.
6. Spotify – “Wrapped”
Spotify Wrapped taps into user nostalgia and the innate desire to share personal data stories. Every December, Spotify presents users with a stylish, data-driven summary of their listening habits, paired with unique visuals and custom playlists.
But here’s the magic: it’s irresistible to share. Wrapped becomes a cultural event, with millions posting their music stats. This organic, user-generated content becomes a tidal wave of free advertising. Among the annual examples of successful internet marketing campaigns, Spotify’s Wrapped continues to dominate with flair.
7. Always – “#LikeAGirl” Campaign
Always shattered societal clichés with their “#LikeAGirl” campaign. They tackled gender stereotypes head-on and redefined the phrase “like a girl” as something powerful, not weak.
The campaign quickly became a cultural lightning rod. With over 85 million views and countless media mentions, it solidified Always as a brand that doesn’t just sell products but promotes purpose. As one of the most socially conscious examples of successful internet marketing campaigns, it proved that advocacy can be commercially savvy too.
8. Apple – “Shot on iPhone”
Apple didn’t need to shout. Instead, it let its product speak for itself. The “Shot on iPhone” campaign showcased stunning user-generated photography and videography from around the world.
Billboards, Instagram posts, and gallery-style displays transformed iPhone users into brand ambassadors. The campaign celebrated creativity while subtly highlighting the iPhone’s superior camera technology. As far as organic content goes, this is one of the most genius examples of successful internet marketing campaigns ever executed.
9. GoPro – “Be a Hero” Series
Action camera company GoPro turned its customers into content creators. By encouraging users to submit their most thrilling footage, GoPro curated adrenaline-pumping videos that captivated global audiences.
From surfers to skydivers, the user-generated content positioned GoPro as more than a product—it became a lifestyle. The campaign spurred loyalty, excitement, and massive brand visibility. Another perfect entry in our lineup of examples of successful internet marketing campaigns that leveraged community power.
10. Burger King – “Moldy Whopper”
Burger King dared to be different. In a time when perfection was the norm in advertising, they ran a campaign showing their Whopper covered in mold. The shocking visuals were a statement against preservatives.
This disruptive strategy generated buzz, controversy, and ultimately admiration for their commitment to real food. It’s weird, it’s bold—and it worked. Definitely one of the most gutsy examples of successful internet marketing campaigns in the fast-food industry.
11. Tinder – “Swipe Night” Interactive Experience
Tinder spiced things up with “Swipe Night,” an interactive, choose-your-own-adventure video series. Users made decisions by swiping left or right, and those choices influenced their match suggestions.
It blurred the lines between entertainment and dating, driving up engagement and creating fresh buzz. Tinder saw a significant boost in matches and messages, proving that gamification and narrative can be a dating app’s secret weapon—and one of the most original examples of successful internet marketing campaigns.
12. Heineken – “Worlds Apart”
Heineken took a bold social approach with “Worlds Apart,” a campaign where strangers with opposing views were paired together and encouraged to discuss their beliefs over a beer.
This socially conscious campaign delivered powerful messages about unity and open dialogue. It garnered massive engagement on social media and traditional press. A thought-provoking entry in our showcase of examples of successful internet marketing campaigns that blend brand identity with human issues.
13. Google – “Year in Search”
Every year, Google releases its “Year in Search,” summarizing the most searched topics with cinematic flair and deep emotional undercurrents.
More than just data, it offers a reflective, touching journey through the year’s events. It resonates globally, reminding users of the brand’s relevance in their daily lives. Easily one of the most anticipated examples of successful internet marketing campaigns each year.
14. REI – #OptOutside
When most retailers dive headfirst into Black Friday sales, REI did the unthinkable: it closed its doors and urged people to #OptOutside instead.
This campaign was as rebellious as it was effective. Not only did it strengthen REI’s brand ethos, but it sparked a movement. Consumers respected the stand, and engagement surged. Truly a standout among values-driven examples of successful internet marketing campaigns.
15. Netflix – “Spoilers” Billboard Campaign
Netflix embraced dark humor with a brilliant campaign in France: billboards plastered with spoilers for popular shows like “Game of Thrones.”
Of course, these weren’t real spoilers—just clever teasers designed to poke fun and generate social media chatter. It was cheeky, edgy, and unforgettable. One of the more unconventional examples of successful internet marketing campaigns, yet undeniably effective.
Final Thoughts
Marketing magic happens when creativity, timing, and relevance collide. These examples of successful internet marketing campaigns not only achieved tremendous reach but often transformed the narrative around their brands. Whether through emotion, humor, disruption, or interactivity, each campaign exemplifies the limitless potential of digital marketing when strategy meets boldness.
