Local advertising is entering one of its most complex and opportunity-rich years yet. In this episode of Leading Local Insights, BIA Founder & CEO Tom Buono and BIA’s senior analysts expand on insights from BIA’s 2026 Local Advertising Trends Report to examine what’s shaping the $182 billion local advertising market.

The conversation highlights where growth is emerging, including CTV and cross-platform video, digital out-of-home, and national brands leaning further into local markets. The team also discusses which business verticals are gaining momentum and what that means for sales strategies.

The episode also touches on the 2026 midterm election cycle, with the BIA analysts offering perspective on how political advertising may influence demand and inventory in select markets as the year unfolds.

Grounded in BIA’s latest trends analysis, this episode delivers clear, data-backed insights to help local media leaders navigate change and identify opportunity in 2026. To download the full 2026 Trends Report, visit www.bia.com/2026trends.