What is a Sponsored Listing?

A Sponsored Listing is a paid promotional upgrade that gives your business priority placement in LocalZ Directory search results and enhanced visibility within specific categories or locations. Unlike standard listings, Sponsored Listings appear above regular results and are marked with a “Sponsored” label.

This is an effective way to put your business in front of more potential customers, especially in competitive service areas.

Sponsored Listings are displayed:

• At the top of directory searches in your selected category or location zone

• With a “Sponsored” badge that signals your listing is promoted

• In rotating or fixed positions depending on available ad inventory

Sponsored Listings function like paid search placements — giving you priority visibility in your chosen area.

Sponsored Listings are managed through your Business Account.

1. Log in to your LocalZ account (you’ll be taken directly to your Business Account)

2. Click Ads 

3. Click Create New Ad

4. Enter an Ad Title (e.g., “Sponsored – Kitchen Remodel – Austin”)

5. Select a Zone (target category or location where you want visibility)

6. Choose “LISTING AD” as the ad type

7. Select the business listing you want to promote

8. Set the campaign duration and budget

9. Submit your ad for review and activation

Once approved, your listing will begin appearing in Sponsored positions within your selected zone.

• Top placement in local and category search results

• Increased exposure to high-intent customers browsing the directory

• More clicks and profile views, especially in competitive categories

• Option to run ads in multiple zones for broader visibility

• Flexibility to start, stop, or adjust campaigns at any time

• New businesses looking to build awareness quickly

• Businesses operating in crowded or highly competitive categories

• Seasonal promotions, event-based campaigns, or limited-time offers

• Expanding reach to nearby cities or ZIP codes beyond your home base

• Sponsored Listings appear as ads at the top of search results

• Featured Listings appear in top organic positions with a badge but are not marked as ads

• Paid Ads can be custom banner or visual ads placed in designated ad zones throughout the platform

• All options are managed separately and can be used together for maximum effect

• Choose zones that reflect where your customers are searching

• Use a descriptive Ad Title to help you manage campaigns

• Keep your listing content updated — including logo, description, and categories

• Use strong tags and accurate service areas to align with your Sponsored zone

• Monitor ad performance through your Business Account to fine-tune your campaigns

Now that you know how Sponsored Listings work:

• Learn How to Launch a Paid Ad Campaign

• Or read Featured