10 Instagram Story Ad Ideas to Inspire You

04/07/2025 Katrina Leung Optimize your media budgets

Instagram Stories have become a powerful tool for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to connect with their audience in a dynamic and engaging way. With over 500 million daily users, leveraging Instagram Story ads can significantly boost your brand's visibility and engagement. Here are 20 creative Instagram Story ad ideas to inspire your next campaign:

Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks
Customer Testimonials
Limited-Time Offers
Polls and Quizzes
Product Demonstrations
User-Generated Content
Countdown to Events
Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes of Events
Influencer Takeover
Run a Giveaway or Contest

1. Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks

Showcase the human side of your business by sharing behind-the-scenes content. Whether it's the making of a product, a day in the office, or preparations for an event, this transparency builds trust and relatability. Parallel 51, a Hong Kong based clothing brand, showcased "first look" of the spring collection like this:

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A post shared by Parallel 51 (@parallel51official)

Or a photoshoot BTS of their new "workwear" collection:

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A post shared by Parallel 51 (@parallel51official)

Although these are posted as reels, they are also great Instagram story ad ideas.

2. Customer Testimonials

Feature satisfied customers sharing their positive experiences with your product or service. Authentic testimonials can enhance credibility and influence potential buyers. Consider sharing video testimonials or screenshots of positive reviews to build trust. For example, this is a strong instagram story ad idea for Medicube IG page:

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A post shared by 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒉𝒂 ☾︎ (@samanthaluiii)

Instead of a review video, you can also try photo with a screenshot of the written review like this:

Source: Amore by Bea

3. Limited-Time Offers

Create urgency by promoting flash sales or limited-time discounts exclusive to your Instagram followers. Use countdown stickers or discounted price highlights to remind viewers of the time left to take advantage of the offer. These Instagram ad ideas can drive immediate action and boost sales:

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4. Polls and Quizzes

Engage your audience with interactive polls or quizzes related to your industry or products. This Instagram story ad idea not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into customer preferences. For example, using the poll sticker to ask "Which product do you prefer?" can increase engagement and inform future offerings.

Source: My Social Boutique

Source: Social Insider

5. Product Demonstrations

Showcase how your product works through short, informative videos. Demonstrations can effectively highlight features and benefits, helping customers understand the value of your offerings. Sharing the creation process or unique uses of your product can also educate and engage your audience.

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A post shared by Trixie Isla-Velez (@3xcvelez)

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A post shared by Karen Cheung (@karenyeahhh)

6. User-Generated Content

Encourage customers to share their own content using your products and feature these posts in your Stories. This not only provides authentic content but also fosters a community around your brand. Reposting user-generated content can enhance brand relatability and serve consumers seeking in-depth information.

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A post shared by Winnie Wong👩‍👦 (@lai_hung_winnie)

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A post shared by Sara Fiorvento (@fitsarax)

7. Countdown to Events

Build anticipation for product launches, events, or sales by using the countdown sticker. This keeps your audience informed and excited about upcoming happenings. Announcing a freebie or a challenge with a countdown can also boost engagement.

Source: SKED Social

8. Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes of Events

If you're hosting or attending an event, share exclusive content through your Stories. This makes your audience feel included and can increase interest in your brand's activities. For example, showcasing preparations or highlights from an event can engage your followers.

Source: Woblogger

9. Influencer Takeover

Collaborate with influencers to take over your Instagram Stories for a day. Their endorsement can introduce your brand to a broader audience and add credibility. Influencers can showcase your products in use, providing authentic promotion.

Source: The Bazaar Voice

10. Run a Giveaway or Contest

Instagram Story ad ideas that involve giveaways tend to get shared — and fast. Use Stories to announce the contest, showcase the prize, and explain how to enter. Ask viewers to tag friends, follow your account, or visit your website.

It’s a fun way to boost awareness and grow your community, especially when you're trying to increase your followers organically.