Entries in this Category Group, Activation & Engagement, build brands through active interaction with the target audience. Execution is limited only by the imagination. These categories can include anything from an event, film, flash mob, or even an outdoor sculpture. The one thing it can’t be? Passive. Because with this strategy, audiences aren’t just viewing an advertisement – they should be experiencing the brand. Whether the piece elicits emotion, action or interaction, winners will have demonstrated not just a creative, unique or outrageous scenario, but also a successful and measurable idea with results that activate and engage the audience.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered into only 1 Product or Service Category.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered in up to 5 categories in Best Use.
Non-traditional or alternative items or placement
TV, Cinema, or Digital moving image or audio advertisements
Created extra value by fostering a sense of community, engaging the audience and inspiring interaction not only with the brand but with each other. Includes user-generated content.
Contests, Sweepstakes, Lotteries
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
PR stunts, pop-up events, guerilla marketing
trade shows, art installations
displays, demonstrations
Live Shows, Concerts, Festivals
using a mobile device or platform such as tablet, phone, app
using Print or Outdoor/Out-of-Home media
using a social media platform such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Public Service or Education with an Activation & Engagement component. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company
Public Service or Education with an Activation & Engagement component. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Jury Brief must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Best use of Technology with an Activation & Engagement component
having a Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality component
Entries in this Category Group, Audio/Radio, leave the visuals to the imagination of the viewer, choosing instead to use the power of sound to convey their message. Eligible work includes but is not limited to radio spots, podcasts, streaming and downloadable audio content.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered into only 1 Product or Service category
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered in up to 5 categories in Best Use.
Length of each spot is :60 seconds or less
Length of each spot is over :60 seconds
The ad is a Podcast or runs during a podcast
The ad reaches its intended audience via Streaming
The ad reaches its intended audience via the Radio
Creative and innovative use of the audio/radio medium to communicate the brand's message
Must be entered as a campaign using 3 or more different types of media led by a Audio/Radio component
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Best use of Technology within the Audio/Radio media
LIMITS: No limits in Craft categories
The Acting or Voiceover elevates the overall piece.
Excellence in the use of Music and/or Sound Design to elevate the concept.
Excellence in the use of the written word to elevate the concept
Excellence in the use of Humor to elevate the concept
Entries in this Category Group, Avant-Garde/Innovative, stand out in a unique, new, groundbreaking or exceptionally creative manner. Work that sets a new standard, challenges the norm, or amazes with a huge “Wow!” factor. In addition to your supporting creative, you must provide a statement in the synopsis field that tells the jury why your entry deserves to be judged in the category. With creative idea being the stand out component, judging will be weighted towards the Idea/Concept.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered in up to 4 categories.
Exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new way of connecting with the audience
Exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new use of medium can include Audio/Radio, Film, Outdoor or Print
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
Exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new use of Digital/Mobile to change or create a new business practice
Connects the audience with the brand through a live experience
Exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new use of Package Design
Exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new Product
Exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new use of Social Media
Innovative use of data to inform creative executions
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Jury Brief must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Best use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, groundbreaking, unique or new
Entries in this Category Group, Branded Content/Entertainment, seamlessly blend the brand’s message with entertainment/content as a way to connect with their audience. This approach chooses to entertain or inform in ways that are complementary to the Brand’s marketing strategy and values, often aiming to make an emotional connection with the audience rather than hard, straight sell.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered into only 1 Product or Service category
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Banking, Investment, Insurance
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered into only 1 Discipline category.
using the Audio/Radio medium (needs to be moved into discipline)
using Digital/Mobile/Social
using Film or Video made for Cinema or TV
using Film or Video made for the web, streaming, apps or other online medium
using an Outdoor medium
using the written word in print. Books, articles, stories, written ads that entertain
using design, art, photography in print media either traditional or digital
LIMITS: The same entry may be entered in up to 4 Best Use categories.
In-Game Advertising
Branded Entertainment/Content that happens in front of a live audience
Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality
The perfect match of sponsor and content that make an emotional connection with the audience.
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative work in Branded Content/Entertainment that pushes this medium forward. Jury Brief must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Jury Brief must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea/message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user
Must define the element of craft that should be judged
Risk-taking, courageous, fearless, daring ideas are behind this work. The concept could have easily been rejected along the approval process or by the client, but brave choices made it happen. Jury Brief must include why you think this idea deserves this award. Please make sure the judges are aware of any context necessary to understanding why this was a brave idea.
Entries in the Category Group, Collaborations & Partnerships, bring together two or more brands, individuals and/or organizations to work on a singular message. Unique relationships can spark amazing creative and open up new audiences. These types of advertisements ultimately benefit the group as well as the individual brands with their team effort.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Banking, Investment, Insurance
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative use of Collaborations and Partnerships that pushes this category forward in the industry. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Working in collaboration or partnership with a Celebrity/Influencer to connect with the targeted audience
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea and message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user
Work that was created with the intent to go viral, widely circulated, shared
Entries in this Category Group, Creative Marketing Strategy/ Effectiveness will demonstrate a groundbreaking solution to a challenging marketing problem. Winners will clearly demonstrate the accomplishment of specific marketing goals and objectives through creative execution and strategic planning. Driven by thought leadership, these entries demonstrate a true marriage of creativity and data. Judging will be based on 4 tiers including Results & Effectiveness and Strategy & Objectives.
All media, including print, outdoor and TV
Campaigns to increase engagement, purchase frequency; customer relationship management
Executed in a single country
Executed in at least three countries
Strategic and effective use of Content creation
Strategic and effective use of leveraging Media to gain exposure, increase reach
Strategic and effective use of Collaborations & Partnerships, including sponsorships
Strategic and effective use of integrating 3 or more media in a campaign
Strategic and effective use of Data to directly drive the creative execution
Strategic and effective use of Social or Environmental Good efforts. Can be a Brand or Charity
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Entries in the Category Group, Design, demonstrate creative excellence in visual craftsmanship. Art meets commerce here to inspire, delight, intrigue, catch the consumer’s eye and create brand recognition. Judging will have 50% based on the execution of design.
Launch or relaunch of new brand or product
Printed or Digital
Printed or Digital
Including but not limited to Annual reports, catalogues, recruitment
Brochures, Catalogues, Press Kits, Annual Reports & Information
Magazine, Cover Art, Newspaper
Tangible items created to promote the brand or message
Includes design of logos and IDs in any media
Promotes the company in an indirect way.
Pieces designed to be mailed directly to the consumer
Work created for Digital or Mobile. Websites, apps, etc.
Other design that does not fit easily into any of the above categories. If you enter this category you cannot enter any other Brand Design categories
Design of an exhibition or live event to promote a brand or brand's message
Any hospitality or leisure related design to promote a brand or brand's message
Temporary or Permanent
Design of online commerce site or app
Design of a public space or designed for a public space
Other Environmental/Experiential Design that does not fit easily into the above categories. If you enter this category you cannot enter any other Environmental/Experiential Design categories
Must define the element of craft that should be judged
Entries in this Category Group, Digital/Mobile, reach their intended audience through websites, mobile apps, banner ads, rich media or other technology. Eligible platforms include but are not limited to tablets, computers, wearable technology, digital screens, and mobile phones.
Products & Services advertising created for Mobile Platforms
Corporate Communications created for Mobile Platforms
eCommerce created for Mobile Platforms
Branded games created for Mobile Platforms
Media/Entertainment advertising created for Mobile Platforms
Politics & Government advertising created for Mobile Platforms
Advertising through Social Media created for Mobile Platforms
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
use of 360 degree video
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
Using digital platforms to evolve how business is conducted
Interface and navigation
Best use of Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative use of Technology. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Work that was created with the intent to go viral, widely circulated, shared
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea and message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user
Entries in this Category Group, Direct & Collateral, directly connect the brand with the intended audience, creating a one-to-one communication/relationship. Great collateral pieces charm and educate while building a brand’s image. They give consumers something to hold in their hands and hopefully their hearts as well.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Banking, Investment, Insurance
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Non-traditional or alternative items or placement
Best Use of Direct or Collateral to launch a new product or service
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Best Use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, unique or new in a Direct or Collateral piece.
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea and message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user.
Must define the element of craft that should be judged
Entries in this Category Group, Film, are moving image advertisements. Whether made for television, cinema, online, mobile devices, outdoor or elsewhere these pieces demonstrate excellence in storytelling using the medium of film or video. You must enter the film in this category, or have the link available as supplemental for the judges, not just a case video.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Length of each spot is :10 seconds or less
Use of 360 degree video
Film/Commercial originally created for TV & Cinema buys. If you enter here, cannot enter F16 or F17.
Film originally created for online, usually longer form content . If you enter here, cannot enter F15 or F17
Film originally created for Social Media, usually shorter form content. If you enter here, cannot enter F15 or F16.
Film created to be interactive
Must be entered as a campaign using 3 or more different types of media, led by a Film component
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Work that was created with the intent to go viral, widely circulated, shared.
One or more performances stand out. You can only enter Acting OR Casting, not both.
Can include any type of Animation. If mixed with live footage, both the animation and integration will be judged.
Art Direction or Design of the Production befits the concept to elevate the piece
The casting befits the concept to elevate the piece. You can only enter Acting OR Casting, not both.
Licensed or adapted music used to elevate the concept
Original Music composed for the brand/piece that elevates the concept
Excellence in execution of all craft elements involved
Excellence in the art of Direction of Photography in a motion picture (video or film)
Excellence in the art of Direction of a motion picture (video or film)
The style and execution of editing/cutting elevates the concept in post-production
Excellence in the use of Humor to elevate the concept
Excellence in the use of the written word to elevate the concept
Excellence in sound design, audio mixing, or use of sound that elevates the concept
Excellence in the use of Visual Effects to elevate the concept
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Entries in this Category Group, Financial Advertising, are all about gaining the rarest kind of consumer trust. These accounts are dedicated to educating consumers to the value of the product while convincing them to entrust the brand with their finances and most sensitive personal data. These campaigns have to be captivating, creative and informative while being held to the highest legal and ethical standards. Winners in these categories may include all types of media used in service of financial advertising and marketing.
Yearly statement, covers the current state of a company, its future goals, and a comprehensive financial breakdown of the past year for interested parties.
Accounting, Audit & Tax Services for business to business
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Work created to communicate ideas, concepts, and changes internally.
Communications regarding Financial Advisers
Communications regarding Financial Service Providers
Communications regarding Investment Banks
Communications regarding Mutual Funds
Accounting, Audit & Tax Services for the consumer
Yearly statement, covers the current state of a company, its future goals, and a comprehensive financial breakdown of the past year for interested parties.
Communications regarding Commercial and Retail banks
Communications regarding Self-Promotion, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Communications regarding Credit Cards, Promotions and Sponsorships
Communications regarding Credit Unions
Communications regarding Financial Advisers
Communications regarding Financial Media
Communications regarding Financial Software and other technology
Communications regarding Financial Planning
Communications regarding Insurance
Communications regarding Lending
Communications regarding Mutual Funds
Communications regarding financial institutions/payment processors
Excellence in communications regarding Retirement Planning
Excellence in the art of Branding
Excellence in the art of Direct communication with the intended audience
Excellence in communication using 3 or more different types of media
Excellence in Event or Program promotion. Includes all types of media advertising at or during the event or program.
Excellence in PR stunts, pop-up events, guerilla marketing
Excellence in communication utilizing outdoor elements
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Excellence in communication using printed communications
Excellence in communications using radio, podcasts, streaming audio, etc.
Excellence in communications using motion video not shown on TV or Cinema screens
Excellence in communications using motion video for TV or Cinema
Excellence in communications used to inform and increase awareness to target audiences of the merits of a product, service, brand or issue.
Excellence in communications used to better the relationship between company and consumer
Excellence in Sponsorships, Promotions and tie-ins
Excellence in work created for Digital or Mobile. Websites, apps, etc.
Excellence in work created for social media platforms
Excellence in website design
Celebrates creativity that fosters the physical, mental, and social well being of individuals, as well as animals. Entries should educate the health consumer about cultivating wellness, and combating disease and infirmity. This section informs health awareness, promotes self-diagnosis to open a conversation between patients and practitioners, and encourages proactive care that leads to a more fulfilling life.
Focused on animal well-being. Pets and other animal health products and services brought to the attention of consumers that show a true health benefit. Includes veterinary clinics, animal charities and fundraising for facilities, etc.
Well-being supplies, tools, products, and services brought to market to solve a particular health need or issue. Examples include back supports, bandages, condoms, contact lenses, dental floss, first aid kit items, home use devices, over-the-counter contraception, orthotics, pregnancy tests, prescription glasses, incontinence products, hearing AIDS, pregnancy tests, fertility testing kits/products, thermometers, drug free pain relief, other health and wellness products.
Work created to empower the public, promote health and disease awareness, and encourage proactive personal care. Includes work that inspires advocacy and donations for legitimate health causes.
Public-targeted corporate image campaigns designed to convey the characteristic spirit for given health & wellness companies, products, health services psychology, chiropractors, nutritionists, oncologists, cardiologists, plastic surgeons, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, other health facilities like gyms and fitness studios, health shops and other retail, health insurance companies, etc.
Products, services and activities that allows a person to maintain a healthy lifestyle: diet, sleep, fitness, exercise, stress management. This includes health & wellness technology like wearables, apps, and other gadgets that aid fitness, diet, stress management, and sleep
Work created for a specific branded product that does not require prescription but provides a meaningful health benefit and/or supports personal wellbeing: Non-prescription drugs, OTC medicines & tablets, digestive health/probiotics, nutraceuticals (vitamins, minerals, herbal remedies, supplements, etc.), and applications (skin remedies, hand sanitizer, athlete’s foot remedies, eye drops, hair loss products, dandruff shampoo, toothpaste, ear drops, etc.
This highly-regulated industry calls for a different playing field Pharma (RX) celebrates creative communications from advertising’s pharmaceutical clients and services - focusing on diagnosis, as well as infirmity, illness, and disease mitigation and management. This includes advertising that targets practitioners/professionals, patients, and consumers.
Surgical supplies, tools, products and services brought to market to solve a particular business need or patient issue. Often innovative, these entries should contribute to the enhancement of the Pharma brand.
Services and /or goods marketed directly to consumers that require a prescription.
Advertising directed toward and solely for healthcare professionals, including internal communications.
Education about the diagnosis, treatment, awareness, and/or prevention of a particular disease.
Products, services and activities that are geared towards animal health.
Work aimed at healthcare professionals, influencers, and researchers intended to provide greater transparency, stability, and relationship-interconnectivity between physicians, hospitals, health systems, etc., in an attempt to ensure deeper provider commitment, a more engaged patient base, better outcomes, and greater value throughout the healthcare system. Work that is created to improve healthcare overall via continued education, smart distribution of research and treatment possibilities, help in the management of a disease or condition, to motivate treatment, support adherence, or aid patient independence. Examples may include communications that effectively showcase the brand and ultimately improve patient outcomes through, for example, data collection and analysis, supporting patient adherence, monitoring, interconnectivity across health systems, etc.
Work created with the aim of building the capacity of patients, families, carers, as well as healthcare providers in order to facilitate and support the active involvement of patients in their own care with the goal of enhancing motivation and independence of a patient as well as supporting proper management, responsible use of treatment/safety and adherence. e.g., the use of data analytics and technology connecting the patient to provider or healthcare systems in order to aid the patient in their journey. Examples would include encouraging compliance, interconnectivity with multiple providers, psychological and social support services, etc.
Enter for Free - Celebrating excellence in the use of iconic New York City in advertising. If your work captures the vibe of New York City, enhancing your concept with images, sounds, songs, landmarks, people, or famous sayings and mottos, we want to see it and honor it. These must be paid advertisements that ran during the eligibility period. Jury Brief must include why you think this piece deserves this award.
Entries in the Category Group, Outdoor, may use many kinds of media but are all seen and experienced out of home. Utilizing public spaces to convey the brand’s message, including but not limited to: Billboards, Posters, Transit Advertising, Ambient Advertising, Digital Screens, Public Events, Public Spaces, etc.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Banking, Investment, Insurance
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Non-traditional or alternative items or placement, often using guerilla tactics. Does not include point-of-sale posters, see BILLBOARDS/INSTALLATIONS/POSTERS category.
Best Use of billboards, installations or posters. Traditional paid media displays.
Best Use of Digital Displays in out of home Public Spaces. Can include Indoor or Outdoor Public Spaces.
Best Outdoor/Out of Home Takeover
Best Use of Transit for Outdoor Advertising and Marketing
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
Best Use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, unique or new in an Outdoor piece
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea and message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user.
Must define the element of craft that should be judged
Entries in this Category Group, Package & Product Design, are all about the craft and creation of packaging or new products. The best of the best in this category blend great design with function that ultimately enhances the brand. Must include an original example of the work, unless customs restrictions prevent it; in that case, an empty vessel or a series of hi-res photographs may be submitted.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Banking, Investment, Insurance
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Packaging that is environmentally friendly. Can include recyclable, biodegradable, compostable, reusable. With the intent to help protect the planet and resources.
A product that is environmentally friendly. Can include recyclable, biodegradable, compostable, reusable. With the intent to help protect the planet and resources.
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative work in Package/Product Design that pushes this medium forward. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Best Use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, unique or new in Package or Product Design.
Must define the element of craft that should be judged
NYFA PIVOT AWARD Monthly calendars, quarterly plans, next year's plan, our five-year plan... 2020 and the "great pause" laughed at them all, rending them obsolete artifacts, like those ads where 9 out of 10 doctors' recommended a brand of cigarettes for pregnant women. Re-branding or taking a new tact used to be a way to slap fresh paint on an old story. No more. In the face of blinding change and challenges, businesses have had to learn to PIVOT in real-time. How did you change "the plan" to drive business? This award will go to the work that executed the toughest, most effective, creative PIVOT of their pre-pandemic plan to a new one in the face of 2020s destabilization of normal operating procedures. Entries in this category will have to present the work along with the context of how 2020 forced the pivot from the original plan by laying out the objective, strategy (new and old), complications, hurdles and the tactics used to execute the final product. This explanation in text or case study video will be 60% of how the jury scores the work. Context counts. This isn't only about budget size; this is about flexibility and creativity under novel restrictions.
Entries in this Category Group, Positive World Impact, use creative communication to encourage and affect changes in attitude, perception or behavior which will ultimately have a positive impact on the world. With intent toward the betterment of people, animals or the environment, winners in these categories may include all types of media.
Work intended to promote rights, empowerment, inclusion, or equality for women
Work intended to promote rights, equality, empowerment, tolerance or inclusion for LGBTQ individuals or community
Work intended to fight against racial, ethnic, or religious discrimination by promoting empowerment, equality, rights, tolerance or inclusion
Public Service intended to educate on Civic or Social issues. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service intended to educate on Civic or Social issues. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service campaign intended to educate, change perception or inspire action toward helping the environment. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service campaign intended to educate, change perception or inspire action toward helping the environment. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service campaign intended to educate, change perception or inspire action towards promoting and advocating for human rights. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service campaign intended to educate, change perception or inspire action towards promoting and advocating for human rights. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service campaign intended to raise money for a cause. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service campaign intended to raise money for a cause. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service campaign intended to promote peace. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service campaign intended to promote peace. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service campaign intended to help children in any way. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service campaign intended to help children in any way. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service campaign in response to an event that caused hardship. For a charity or non-profit
Public Service campaign in response to an event that caused hardship. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Collaboration between two or more entities working towards the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Collaboration between two or more entities working towards the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
This Category Group, Print, honors excellence in printed or published media. Eligible entries including but not limited to billboards, posters, newspapers, magazines, calendars, whether traditional printed materials or digital.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Print advertising created to be interactive with the intended audience
Best Use of Print in a Newspaper or Magazine
Best use of Print using Digital Displays or Digital Screens
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Must be entered as a campaign using 3 or more different types of media, led by a Print component
Best Use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, unique or new in Print.
Must define the element that should be judged
Excellence in overall execution of and compilation of various visual languages to form one distinct, aesthetic voice.
Excellence in the use of the written word to elevate the concept.
Excellence in the use of humor to elevate the concept.
Excellence in the use of graphic design to elevate the concept.
Excellence in the use of illustration
Excellence in the use and execution of photography to elevate the piece.
Excellence in the use and execution of typography to elevate the piece.
Must define the element of craft that should be judged.
This Category Group, Public Relations, honors excellence in reputation management, creative communications and awareness with the goal of increasing positive perception and good will toward the brand. Eligible entries include but are not limited to corporate branding, crisis management, events, and public service advertising. PR campaigns often include an earned media tactic.
Work related to motor vehicles, parts, repairs, fuel, etc. (Please see the TRANSPORTATION category for mass transit)
Self-Promotion, Internal Communications, Recruitment, Rebranding, etc.
Any type of Food, Drink, Grocery or Restaurant
Any and all types of Media, Entertainment or Events
Communications regarding Politics, Government or Public Policy
All Retail Stores and/or eCommerce
Transportation including Subways, Trains, Buses, Bikeshares. Please Note: airlines, cruise ships and recreational vehicles should be submitted in the TRAVEL/LEISURE category
Travel, Tourism and/or Leisure activities including but not limited to airlines, cruise ships, hotels, recreation, etc.
Including but not limited to telecommunications and energy
Other Products & Services that don't fit easily into the above categories. You cannot enter any other Products & Services category if you enter here.
Work that was created with the intent to increase loyalty to the brand
Created value by fostering a sense of community, engaging the audience and inspiring interaction resulting in positive attitudes toward the brand. Includes user-generated content.
PR campaigns using celebrity/influencer as part of the campaign
PR campaigns created to change or enhance corporate image
PR campaigns created to respond to a crisis or issue regarding the brand's image
Use of a digital or mobile platform to enhance a brand's image, perception or message
Excellence achieved in gaining huge amounts of Earned Media.
PR campaigns with an environmental effort component
Use of an event or stunt to enhance a brand's image or message
PR that creatively leverages media outlets to enhance a brand's reputation/perception.
PR campaigns with a component that promotes cross cultural tolerance and understanding or that are intended to build relationships with diverse audiences
PR campaigns creatively using Social Media to enhance a brand's image, perception or message
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Excellence achieved with limited budget/resources. Synopsis must include budget and explanation of why you qualify for this award
2020 was an unprecedented year of high weirdness, crisis and tragedy. Along with these global disruptions came a lot of NOISE. The 2020/2021 SIGNAL AWARD is a new award for the “signal” that best cut through the noise and delivered powerful, factual, actionable, informative content dealing with one or more of the head spinning disruptions of 2020.These include, but are not limited to, work about the COVID PANDEMIC, UNITY, CLIMATE CHANGE, DEMOCRACY, and LOVE over HATE.There will only be a single Gold, Silver and Bronze award given to the top scoring works in this new category.
Entries in this Category Group, Social Media & Influencer, spread the brand message through public sharing, commenting and expressions of opinions and content. Results are measured by reach in views, likes, shares, comments, user-generated content, etc. Eligible entries include but not limited to marketing solutions which utilize Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Influencers to increase audience engagement.
Primary or initial platform used
Primary or initial platform used
Primary or initial platform used
Primary or initial platform used
Primary or initial platform used
Primary or initial platform used
Campaigns using a Social Media platform other than those listed here
Hashtag was used to engage, ignite widespread discussion and sharing. The best in this category will be known well outside of those who have used the hashtag
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative use of an Influencer(s). Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative use of a partnership or collaboration used in Social Media. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative use of Social Media to promote the brand. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Must be entered as a campaign using 3 or more different types of media led by a Social Media component. Can't be a cut/paste of work across mediums, must use the strengths of each.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. Sponsored by a brand or for-profit company.
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society. For a charity or non-profit
Best Use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, unique or new in a Social Media .
Campaigns achieving excellent results in reach and are widely circulated, viewed and shared
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea and message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user.
This Category Group, Sports, honors excellence in sports advertising whether the brand is sporting equipment, a team, a league or the marketing effort is aimed at sports fans. Eligible entries include but not limited to Sporting Event promotion, Superbowl Ads and player endorsements.
Sports related Product or Service advertising. Includes all media.
Sports related Team or League promotion including Governing Bodies and Associations. All media.
Sports Event or Program promotion. Includes all types of media advertising at or during the event or program.
Brand messaging through eSports
Advertising utilizing a Sports personality, celebrity, or athlete to endorse a product service or brand
Brand messaging through Events & Stunts. Must be a sports-related brand or venue
Brand messaging through Exhibits & Installations. Must be a sports-related brand or venue
Brand messaging through Competitions & Promotional Games at a sporting event or sports themed
Uses a collaboration or partnerships with brands, players, teams, leagues, governing bodies or associations.
Advertising during the Super Bowl
Advertising during a Championship Event. Including the Olympics, World Series, World Cup, Wimbledon, etc.
Best use of a collaboration or partnership with a Celebrity/Athlete/Influencer to connect with the targeted audience
Best Use of Digital Displays
Best Takeover in Sports Advertising
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative. Synopsis must include why you think this idea is innovative.
Leverages multiple platforms in a unique and powerful way to engage the audience. Winners in this category will use the strengths of each platform to expand on the concept. This does not represent typical integrated campaigns where one piece of main content is used similarly across different media.
Best use of Technology that is exceptionally creative, unique or new
Intended to involve, engage and inspire the audience to participate and create their own content that furthers the original idea and message. The ultimate collaboration between brand and user
Best use of Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality
This Category Group honors excellence in Student work. When seen with fresh eyes, advertising takes on an entirely new look. The competition honors the next generation of advertising greats, those with the ability to make us look at things in a way we never have before and never will again.
radio spots, podcasts, streaming and downloadable audio content
Groundbreaking, new, unique or exceptionally creative execution or use. Synopsis must include why you think this is idea is innovative
Seamlessly blend a brand's message with content or entertainment
Creative excellence in visual craftmanship
Direct communication with the intended audience. Collateral pieces are something the audience can hold in their hands and hopefully their hearts as well
Reach their intended audience through websites, mobile apps, banner ads and more using tablets, mobile phones, computers, etc.
Moving picture advertising: film or video
Out of Home advertising including but not limited to Billboards, Posters, Digital Screens, Public Spaces
Traditional or Digital Print advertising
Campaigns intended to alter perception and good will toward a brand or brand's message
Public Service or Education for the betterment of society, Social and Environmental Good.
One or more performances stand out
Can include any type of animation. If mixed with live footage, both the animation and integration will be judged.
Art Direction or Design of the Production befits the concept to elevate the piece
Excellence in execution of all craft elements involved
Licensed or adapted music used to elevate the concept
The use of Original Music composed for the brand/piece elevates the concept
The casting befits the concept to elevate the piece
Excellence in the art of Direction of Photography in a motion picture (video or film)
Excellence in the art of Direction of a motion picture (video or film)
The style and execution of editing/cutting elevates the concept in post-production
Excellence in the use of Humor to elevate the concept
Excellence in the use of the written word to elevate the concept
Excellence in sound design, audio mixing, or use of sound that elevates the concept
Excellence in the use of Visual Effects to elevate the concept
Excellence in the design and execution of the artistic/aesthetic elements
Excellence in the use of the written word to elevate the concept
Excellence in the use of Humor to elevate the concept
Excellence in the use of Illustration
Excellence in the use of Graphic Design elements
Excellence in the design of Interface & Navigation that elevates the concept and is pleasing for the user.
Excellence in the use and execution of Photography to elevate the piece.
Excellence in the use and execution of Typography to elevate the piece.
A genius is potent not only for the change and innovation they can personally create in the world, but also for the state change and action they can inspire in others.The Genius 100 Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that supports impactful humanitarian and environmental initiatives around the globe. Its 100 Visionaries, including Jose Miguel Sokoloff and Obiageli Ezekwesili as well as 16 Nobel Laureates and many highly decorated international global leaders, are the corner-stone of the G100 community - a spirited, productive collective entity that continues to evolve and flourish - celebrating imagination, innovation and exploration, and harnessing the positive and purposeful impact they can have on our world. Work entered in this category is not only creative, but has that ineffable genius quality that inspires action to create impact. Judged by 3 members of the incredible Genius100 collective, entrants must show the jury the objective, strategy, tactics and results of their effort. Entry fees into the Genius 100 Inspiration Award category will be donated to the Himalayan Cataract Project.