Introducing Our New 2026 Categories

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a conference or convention tailored to the needs of professional associations. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists with expertise in association management and industry-specific topics, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements supported the goals and mission of the association, fostered collaboration among members, and provided meaningful opportunities for networking, learning, and professional growth.

Recognizes the most exceptional and strategically executed brand trip designed to elevate brand presence and foster authentic connections. This award celebrates trips that successfully brought together influencers, creators, or key stakeholders to experience the brand in a unique and immersive way. Submissions should highlight how the trip incorporated creative storytelling, memorable experiences, and meaningful engagement, while showcasing the brand’s values and vision.

Recognizes the most impactful and innovative brand activation campaign within the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. This award celebrates creative strategies that successfully engaged consumers, elevated brand awareness, and drove measurable results. Submissions should showcase how the activation captured the essence of the brand, utilized unique channels or experiences, and resonated with the target audience to create lasting impressions and meaningful connections.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a conference or convention centered on the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists with expertise in CPG trends and strategies, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements addressed the unique challenges, opportunities, and innovations within the CPG sector, while aligning with the messaging and goals of the conference or convention to foster valuable insights and connections among industry professionals.

Awarded for establishing a strong relationship with influencers and creating a positive experience for influencers through campaigns that incorporate an experiential element. Submissions should highlight how influencers were afforded competitive compensation, creative freedom, and opportunities that align with both their own personal interests and that of their audience, while also showcasing how the campaign provided a memorable, engaging, or immersive experience for the influencers and their audiences. Influencers can denote a wide range of people who use their fame or social standing to promote a product or brand; this includes, but is not limited to, celebrities, social media stars, journalists, or industry experts.

Awarded for creating exceptional opportunities to connect with fans and foster meaningful interactions that strengthen brand loyalty and community. This category celebrates campaigns, events, or initiatives that successfully engage fans through innovative strategies, immersive experiences, or interactive platforms. Submissions should highlight how the engagement efforts resonated with the target audience, encouraged active participation, and created memorable moments that deepened the connection between the brand and its fans. Examples may include social media activations, live events, gamification, user-generated content, or other creative approaches that prioritize fan involvement and satisfaction.

Celebrates the most outstanding and creative activation campaign tied to the FIFA World Cup. This award honors initiatives that captured the excitement and global spirit of the tournament while engaging fans in unique and memorable ways. Submissions should highlight how the activation leveraged the World Cup’s cultural significance, connected with diverse audiences, and delivered impactful experiences that enhanced brand visibility and fan engagement during the event.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a finance-focused conference or convention. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists with expertise in financial topics, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements were designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities within the financial sector, while aligning with the messaging and goals of the conference or convention to foster valuable insights and connections among attendees.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a conference or convention focused on the industrial and automotive sectors. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists with expertise in industrial and automotive topics, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements addressed the specific needs, trends, and advancements within the industrial and automotive industries, while aligning with the messaging and goals of the conference or convention to drive meaningful discussions and connections among attendees.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a conference or convention focused on the life sciences industry. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists with expertise in life sciences, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements addressed the unique challenges, advancements, and opportunities within the life sciences sector, while aligning with the messaging and goals of the conference or convention to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and impactful discussions among attendees.

This category celebrates experiences that actively engage audiences through participation, interaction, or co-creation. Submissions should showcase how the experience was designed to make audience involvement a core element, encouraging direct engagement with the brand, content, or environment rather than treating participation as a secondary feature.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a technology-focused conference or convention. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists with expertise in technology, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of cutting-edge technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements were tailored to reflect the messaging, goals, and unique needs of the tech industry, while fostering meaningful connections and knowledge-sharing among attendees.

Awarded for demonstrating exceptional creativity and strategic thinking in delivering impactful results within a budget of $500,000 or less. This category recognizes campaigns, events, or experiences that maximized resources, achieved significant outcomes, and showcased innovative approaches to budget management. Submissions should highlight how the budget was allocated effectively to achieve the desired objectives, while maintaining high-quality execution and delivering measurable success.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a conference or convention designed specifically for users of a product, service, or platform. Judging is based on the originality and relevance of content, the selection of speakers or panelists who can provide valuable insights to users, innovative methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and the creation of an engaging learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements enhanced the user experience, fostered community engagement, provided actionable takeaways, and aligned with the messaging and goals of the conference or convention to strengthen the relationship between the organization and its user base.