This award category recognises the best arts & cultural event which represents and celebrates a culture, art, tradition, or holiday must have been open to the public to attend and can be a one-day event, or a series of events organised under one main event title. Private or corporate events are not eligible. Judges will evaluate the following:

• Artistic merit: The event’s creativity, originality, and quality of the performances, exhibits, or installations.

• Audience engagement: How well the event engaged and entertained the audience, as well as the level of participation, interaction, and feedback from the attendees.

• Cultural impact: The event's contribution to the region's cultural landscape, its promotion of local talent, and its accessibility to diverse communities.

• Organization and management: The overall execution and management of the event, including the planning, budgeting, marketing, staffing, and production quality.

• Sustainability: The event's environmental and social impact, considering factors like waste reduction, carbon footprint, and community involvement.

This award category recognises the efforts of an outstanding corporate or business event that effectively engaged with its audience and achieved business core objectives. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Meeting objectives: How well the meeting achieved its objectives, including the alignment with the organization's goals, the clarity of the agenda, and the relevance and usefulness of the content.

• Attendee satisfaction: The level of attendee satisfaction with the meeting, including the quality of the venue, the food and beverage, the audio-visual equipment, and the overall experience.

• Innovation and creativity: The level of innovation and creativity in the meeting, including the use of technology, interactive formats, and new approaches to learning and networking.

• Stakeholder engagement: The level of stakeholder engagement in the meeting, including the participation and input of key stakeholders, such as sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, and attendees.

This award category recognises the event that has made a significant positive impact on a community and successfully brought people together, fostered a sense of community spirit, and contributed to the overall well-being of the community. The judges will consider the following:

• Purpose and goals: The clarity and relevance of the event's purpose and goals, including the alignment with the community's needs and interests, and the effectiveness of the event in achieving its goals.

• Community involvement and participation: The level of community involvement and participation in the event, including the diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility of the event, and the opportunities for the community to engage, collaborate, and contribute.

• Impact on the community: The positive impact of the event on the community, including the social, cultural, environmental, and economic impact, and the ability of the event to address a specific issue, promote a cause, or enhance the well-being of the community.

• Execution and delivery: The quality of the event's planning, promotion, and management, including the attention to detail, the quality of the programming and activities, the safety and security measures, and the overall experience and satisfaction of the attendees.

This award recognises an employer in the events industry with fewer than 100 employees that has created a supportive, inclusive, and motivating workplace, fostering the growth and well-being of its team. The judges will assess:

• Employee engagement and satisfaction: The company’s ability to create a positive, inclusive culture that promotes teamwork, communication, and mutual respect. Judges will consider feedback from employee surveys and reviews as evidence of high engagement and satisfaction.

• Diversity and inclusion: The company’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace through hiring, promotion, and retention practices. Judges will evaluate initiatives like DEI training, mentoring programs, and policies that promote inclusivity and equity across all levels of the business.

• Employee development and retention: The company’s efforts to support employee growth through professional development opportunities and career progression. Judges will assess employee retention rates and the effectiveness of benefits and work-life balance policies.

• Leadership and innovation: The leadership’s effectiveness in creating a motivating environment and adapting to new challenges. Innovation in employee engagement, flexible work policies, and the adoption of technology to enhance workplace productivity will also be considered.

This award recognises an employer in the events industry with more than 100 employees that has created a supportive, inclusive, and motivating workplace, fostering the growth and well-being of its team. The judges will assess:

• Employee engagement and satisfaction: The company’s ability to create a positive, inclusive culture that promotes teamwork, communication, and mutual respect. Judges will consider feedback from employee surveys and reviews as evidence of high engagement and satisfaction.

• Diversity and inclusion: The company’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace through hiring, promotion, and retention practices. Judges will evaluate initiatives like DEI training, mentoring programs, and policies that promote inclusivity and equity across all levels of the business.

• Employee development and retention: The company’s efforts to support employee growth through professional development opportunities and career progression. Judges will assess employee retention rates and the effectiveness of benefits and work-life balance policies.

• Leadership and innovation: The leadership’s effectiveness in managing a large workforce, creating a motivating environment and adapting to new challenges. Innovation in employee engagement, flexible work policies, and the adoption of technology to manage and support a geographically or functionally diverse workforce.

This award category recognises the most creative and exceptional event production that delivered a high-quality entertainment experience, and audience engagement, demonstrating an understanding of the target market. The judges will assess the following:

• Entertainment value: The overall entertainment value of the production, including its ability to engage and excite the audience. They will look for evidence of how the production creates a memorable and enjoyable experience for the attendees.

• Creativity and innovation: The production's creativity and innovation, including the use of unique and innovative elements that set it apart from other productions in its category. They will look for evidence of how the production incorporates new ideas and technologies in its design.

• Technical excellence: The production's technical excellence, including the quality of sound, lighting, and other technical aspects that contribute to the overall experience. They will look for evidence of how the production uses technology to enhance the performance and the audience experience.

• Artistic quality: The artistic quality of the production, including the quality of performances, musicality, choreography, and other artistic elements. They will look for evidence of how the production showcases high levels of artistic skill and expertise.

• Audience response: The audience's response to the production, including feedback from attendees, reviews, and social media. They will look for evidence of how the production has a positive impact on the audience and how it meets the audience's expectations.

This award recognises an event agency that has demonstrated excellence in delivering impactful, innovative, and memorable events. The winner will be a company that consistently exceeds client expectations, achieves business objectives, and showcases creativity and professionalism across all aspects of event management. Judges will assess the following:

• Event execution and impact: The agency’s ability to deliver successful events that meet or exceed client goals. This includes planning, coordination, logistics, and overall event impact, such as achieving business outcomes and attendee engagement.

• Creativity and innovation: The agency’s use of innovative ideas, creative concepts, and unique approaches in event design and delivery. Judges will consider how the agency leverages new technologies, trends, and formats to enhance the event experience.

• Client satisfaction and relationships: The level of client satisfaction, including feedback, repeat business, and testimonials. Judges will look for evidence of strong client relationships and the agency’s ability to understand and fulfill client needs.

• Team collaboration and expertise: The expertise, teamwork, and professionalism of the agency’s team in managing events. This includes project management skills, communication, and the ability to work under pressure.

• Sustainability and social responsibility: The agency’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility in event planning, including eco-friendly practices, diversity, and community engagement.

This award recognises excellence in event logistics, honoring providers who demonstrate outstanding efficiency, innovation, and reliability in managing the complex logistics of events. Judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

• Operational Efficiency and Execution: The provider’s ability to manage all aspects of event logistics—planning, transportation, setup, on-site coordination, and dismantling—while ensuring timely, detail-oriented, and adaptable service.

• Innovation and Problem-Solving: The use of innovative solutions to improve logistical processes, including technology, sustainability practices, and creative approaches to overcoming challenges or enhancing event operations.

• Client Satisfaction and Feedback: Testimonials from event organisers or clients, reflecting the provider’s ability to meet or exceed expectations, demonstrate reliability, and deliver a smooth logistics experience.

• Scalability and Impact: The provider’s ability to successfully manage events of various scales and complexities, contributing to the overall success of the event, including measurable outcomes such as time savings, cost efficiency, or enhanced attendee experience.

This award is designed to recognise an outstanding marketing campaign created specifically for an event (single event or series). A marketing campaign that has demonstrated excellence in promoting and advertising an event to its target audience by achieving outstanding results in terms of audience engagement. The campaign may include a variety of marketing channels, such as digital media, social media, print media, email, and other forms of communication. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Creativity and Innovation: The campaign’s overall concept, messaging, design, and execution.

• Audience Engagement: The campaign’s ability to engage and connect with the target audience in a meaningful way. This can be achieved through a variety of tactics, such as interactive experiences, personalized content, social media engagement, and more.

• Measurable Results: The success of the campaign against specific, measurable goals, such as ticket sales, attendance, social media engagement, and media coverage. The campaign should also have a positive impact on the overall brand image and reputation.

• Overall Impact: Finally, the judges will assess the campaign based on its overall impact beyond the event itself, whether in terms of building brand awareness, generating new leads and customers, or strengthening relationships with existing ones.

This award category recognises the events that managed to create a high impact and deliver great results on a limited/relatively low budget. The events in this category are evaluated on their ability to creatively and effectively use their limited resources to deliver a high-quality experience for attendees. The judges will consider the following:

• Cost Efficiency: The event must demonstrate that it was delivered on a tight budget, with a focus on finding creative and innovative ways to minimize costs without compromising on the overall quality of the event.

• Creativity: The event should showcase originality and resourcefulness in utilizing low-cost solutions for event elements such as venue selection, decor, food and beverage, technology, and other production elements. Judges will look for examples of innovative solutions that were successfully implemented.

• Attendee Experience: The event should deliver a memorable and enjoyable experience for attendees despite its budget limitations. Judges will evaluate the event's ability to engage attendees, create a positive atmosphere, and deliver an exceptional overall experience.

• Impact: The event should demonstrate its ability to achieve its objectives, whether it's to promote a brand or product, or engage a specific target audience. The judges will look for evidence of a positive impact on the attendees, the community, or the organization hoStartsting the event.

This award recognises event organisers who have successfully elevated their event’s impact through outstanding photography and videography. It celebrates the organisers' vision and ability to collaborate with creative teams to produce a visual narrative that perfectly captures the event’s spirit, theme, and key moments. Judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

• Creative Vision and Alignment: Judges will assess how well the photography and videography reflect the event’s concept, theme, and objectives, showcasing the organiser’s vision in curating impactful visuals.

• Storytelling Impact: Judges will evaluate the ability of the visuals to tell a compelling story of the event, capturing key moments, audience engagement, and the overall emotional tone.

• Strategic Use of Visuals: The organiser’s use of visuals to enhance event marketing, promotion, or post-event engagement, demonstrating their role in amplifying the event’s reach and impact.

• Organizational Contribution and Collaboration: The organiser’s role in guiding the creative team will be assessed. Judges will consider the organiser’s contribution to setting the creative brief, facilitating access to key moments, and ensuring the final output is aligned with their event’s vision and goals.

• Event Success and Impact: Judges will consider the event’s success as reflected through visuals, such as audience reactions, memorable moments, or media coverage. Feedback from attendees, stakeholders, or partners on how the visuals captured the essence of the event will also be valued.

This award recognises the agency that excels in sourcing, recruiting, and providing top-tier talent for the events industry. Judges will evaluate the following:

• Talent quality and fit: The agency’s ability to match highly skilled candidates with client needs, ensuring candidates meet the specific requirements for different types of events (e.g., conferences, exhibitions, festivals).

• Client satisfaction and relationships: Client feedback, testimonials, and long-term relationships, demonstrating the agency’s ability to build trust and consistently meet recruitment needs.

• Industry expertise and knowledge: The agency’s understanding of current industry trends, skills in demand, and the ability to recruit for diverse event roles. Judges will assess how well the agency stays informed about industry changes.

• Efficiency and process: The agency’s recruitment process, including candidate screening, speed of hiring, and its ability to handle urgent staffing needs while ensuring a smooth client experience.

• Candidate support and experience: The support provided to candidates, including training, career guidance, and maintaining a positive candidate experience that fosters loyalty.

• Innovation and adaptability: The agency’s ability to adapt to industry changes, using innovative recruitment strategies and technologies to improve outcomes.

This award recognises the event that has excelled in creating a visually stunning, unique, and immersive atmosphere, while also incorporating sustainable design practices. The events in this category are judged on their ability to craft a memorable experience for attendees using lighting, props, décor, and other design elements. The judges will consider the following:

• Creativity and originality: The event's ability to showcase originality and creativity in utilizing design elements such as lighting, decor, props, and other design elements that make the space unique and memorable. Judges will look for examples of innovative and sustainable solutions that were successfully implemented and complemented the overall theme or concept of the event.

• Theme and concept integration: The event's ability to seamlessly align its design with the chosen theme or concept. Judges will assess how effectively the design elements, from décor to spatial layout, reflect and enhance the event’s purpose or story, creating a cohesive and impactful experience.

• Attention to detail: The event's ability to demonstrate a high level of attention to detail, whether it's in the choice of materials, colors, textures, or overall styling. The judges will evaluate the precision of execution and quality of the design, and how it all comes together to create an immersive and unforgettable experience.

• Sustainability and impact: The event's commitment to sustainable design practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient solutions, and waste reduction strategies. Judges will evaluate the balance between design excellence and minimizing the environmental impact.

This award recognises a consumer or trade exhibition under 10,000 sqm that has demonstrated excellence in delivering a high-quality event with innovative planning, flawless execution, and outstanding results. Judges will consider the following:

• Objectives and strategy: Judges will assess the clarity of the exhibition’s objectives and alignment with business goals. They will consider the relevance and innovation of the event theme to the target industry and its effectiveness in engaging exhibitors, visitors, and key stakeholders. The introduction of new features or initiatives that distinguish the event will also be evaluated.

• Attendee experience: The quality and engagement of the attendee experience, including registration ease, event layout, information availability, and interactive features such as workshops, networking, or live demonstrations. Overall attendee satisfaction, visitor retention, and growth in visitor numbers will be key factors.

• Exhibitor experience: Exhibitor retention rates and satisfaction, along with the ease of setup and dismantling, will be considered. Judges will also evaluate support provided to exhibitors, such as resources, on-site assistance, and the opportunity to meet business objectives. Initiatives aimed at boosting ROI and long-term exhibitor relationships will be key.

• Marketing and promotion: Judges will assess the creativity and effectiveness of marketing strategies, including the use of digital and traditional channels. The ability to attract relevant exhibitors and attendees, and evidence of growth in visitor numbers and geographic reach, will be considered.

This award recognises a consumer or trade exhibition exceeding 10,000 sqm that has demonstrated excellence in creating a large-scale event with innovative planning, impeccable execution, and significant impact. Judges will assess the following:

• Objectives and strategy: Judges will assess the clarity and scale of the exhibition’s objectives, ensuring alignment with business goals and the overall industry context. They will consider the event’s ability to attract a diverse range of exhibitors, visitors, and stakeholders. The introduction of large-scale features, initiatives, or innovations that distinguish the event will also be a key factor.

• Attendee experience: Given the larger scale, the quality and engagement of the attendee experience, including smooth registration, clear event layout, effective signage, efficient crowd management and interactive features such as workshops, networking, or live demonstrations will be considered by judges. Overall attendee satisfaction, visitor retention, and growth in visitor numbers will be key factors.

• Exhibitor experience: Exhibitor retention rates and satisfaction, along with the ease of setup and dismantling, will be considered. Judges will also evaluate support provided to exhibitors, such as resources, on-site assistance, and the opportunity to meet business objectives. Initiatives aimed at boosting ROI and long-term exhibitor relationships will be key.

• Marketing and promotion: Judges will assess the broad scope and creativity of marketing strategies, including the integration of digital, traditional and experiential marketing channels. Successful strategies for attracting large numbers of exhibitors and visitors, as well as promoting brand partnerships, will be evaluated.

This award recognises a festival that has a unique and compelling theme and has delivered an outstanding experience for attendees through innovative programming, entertainment, and attractions. The judges will assess the following:

• Programming: The overall programming of the festival, including the diversity, quality, and originality of the events, activities, and performances. They will look for evidence of how the festival creates a unique and memorable experience for the attendees.

• Production quality: The production quality of the festival, including the sound, lighting, staging, and other technical aspects that contribute to the overall experience. They will look for evidence of how the festival uses technology and resources to enhance the performances and activities.

• Attendee experience: The overall attendee experience, including the ease of access, crowd management, facilities, and services provided. They will look for evidence of how the festival creates a comfortable and enjoyable environment for the attendees.

• Innovation and creativity: The level of innovation and creativity of the festival, including the use of unique and innovative elements that set it apart from other festivals in its category. They will look for evidence of how the festival incorporates new ideas and technologies in its design.

The award category recognises the company who has provided the most innovative and effective lighting & sound solution for an event by demonstrating exceptional creativity and technical expertise in designing and implementing the event’s lighting setup. The judges will assess the following:

• Creativity and innovation: The level of creativity and innovation in the audio and lighting solution, including the use of cutting-edge technology, unique and original design, and innovative ways of enhancing the event's theme and atmosphere.

• Technical expertise: The technical expertise of the solution provider, including the quality of the equipment, the setup, and the operation, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and adapt to unexpected situations.

• Impact on the event: The impact of the audio and lighting solution on the event's success, including the level of engagement, entertainment, and emotional response of the attendees, and the contribution to the event's goals and objectives.

• Efficiency and reliability: The efficiency and reliability of the solution, including the ease of setup, the ability to meet the event's schedule, the capacity to handle unexpected situations, and the durability of the equipment.

This award recognises an outstanding event, or set of events in terms of organisation, creativity, and entertainment value that has been branded as a music event or concert. All music events must be open to the public to attend and can be a one-day event, or a series of events organised under one main event title spread over several days. The judges will assess the following:

• Programming and execution: The overall programming of the music event, with a focus on the the diversity, quality, and originality of the music performances. Emphasis will be placed on how well the event was executed, from planning through to the final performance.

• Production quality: The production quality of the music event, including the sound, lighting, staging, and other technical aspects that contribute to the overall experience. They will look for evidence of how the event uses technology and resources to enhance the performances.

• Attendee engagement and experience: The overall attendee experience, including the ease of access, crowd management, facilities, and services provided. They will look for evidence of how the event creates a comfortable and enjoyable environment for the attendees.

• Marketing and promotion: The quality and effectiveness of the marketing and promotion of the music event, including the use of various channels and techniques to generate interest and drive attendance.

This award recognises excellence in planning, organizing, and managing social events, including weddings, milestone celebrations, corporate/networking events, awards ceremonies, gala dinners, and balls. Commercial conferences and exhibitions are not eligible for this award. The judges will consider the following:

• Overall design and theme: The overall design and theme of the social event, including the creativity and originality of the concept, the consistency and attention to detail in the decor, and the ability of the event to create a cohesive and memorable experience for the attendees.

• Food and beverage: The quality, creativity, and presentation of the food and beverage served at the event, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of the service staff and logistics.

• Entertainment and activities: The quality and creativity of the entertainment and activities provided at the event, including the ability of the event to engage and entertain the attendees, and to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.

• Guest experience: The overall guest experience, including the quality of the hospitality and guest services provided, the efficiency and effectiveness of the logistics and operations, and the overall satisfaction and feedback of the attendees.

This award recognises an outstanding sporting event or set of sporting events in terms of organisation, creativity and sporting value. The event must have been open to the public to attend and can be a one-day event, or a series of events organised under one main event title. Private events are not eligible. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Event concept and planning: The concept and planning of the event, including the originality and creativity of the idea, the feasibility of the event, and the quality of the planning and organization.

• Venue and facilities: The quality of the venue and facilities used for the event, including the suitability and capacity of the venue, the quality and functionality of the facilities and equipment, and the efficiency and effectiveness of the logistics.

• Marketing and promotion: The effectiveness and creativity of the marketing and promotional strategies used for the event, including the reach and engagement of the audience, the effectiveness of the messaging, and the success in generating interest and ticket sales.

• Attendee experience: The overall attendee experience, including the level of engagement and entertainment, the quality of the hospitality and guest services, and the overall satisfaction and feedback of the attendees.

The award category recognises the agency that demonstrates excellence in delivering high-quality staffing solutions for the event industry. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Professionalism and quality of staff: The professionalism and quality of the agency's staff, including their level of training, experience, and expertise in the event industry.

• Efficiency and effectiveness of the staffing process: The agency's staffing process, including the efficiency and effectiveness of the recruitment, training, and deployment of staff for events. The judges may consider factors such as the agency's ability to meet the unique staffing needs of each event, the timeliness of staffing, and the effectiveness of the agency's communication and coordination with event organisers.

• Innovation and adaptability: Judges will consider the agency’s ability to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving event landscape including the introduction of new technologies for scheduling, staff management, or training, as well as the agency’s ability to quickly adjust to unexpected challenges, such as last-minute staffing changes or shifts in event requirements.

• Client satisfaction and feedback: The overall satisfaction and feedback of the agency's clients, including event organisers and attendees. The judges may consider factors such as client testimonials, survey data, and other feedback metrics to evaluate the agency's performance and level of customer satisfaction.

This award category recognises excellence in the design and construction of exhibition stands under 100 square meters. It celebrates the efforts of companies that have created outstanding stand designs and delivered high-quality build services for their clients within this specific size category. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Creativity, branding, and messaging: Judges will assess the originality of the stand design, focusing on the innovative use of materials, concepts, and design elements. The stand should effectively communicate the brand identity through its visual appeal, including graphics, colors, and overall aesthetics, aligning with the brand’s core message.

• Functionality, visitor experience, and engagement: Judges will evaluate how the stand facilitates the visitor experience, considering the layout, accessibility, and integration of interactive features like product displays, seating, and digital elements. The stand should encourage easy movement, interaction, and engagement to create a memorable visitor experience.

• Sustainability and environmental impact: Judges will will review the use of sustainable materials, eco-friendly practices, and energy-efficient lighting. The use of reusable or recyclable components and other green initiatives will be key factors in assessing the environmental impact.

• Build quality and technical execution: Judges will consider the craftsmanship and structural integrity of the stand, ensuring it is well-built, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Attention to detail and professional execution will play a significant role in the evaluation.

This award category recognises excellence in the design and construction of exhibition stands over 100 square meters. It celebrates the efforts of companies that have created outstanding stand designs and delivered high-quality build services for their clients within this larger size category. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Creativity, branding, and messaging: Judges will assess the originality of the stand design, focusing on the innovative use of space, materials, concepts, and design elements. The stand should effectively communicate the brand identity through its visual appeal, including graphics, colors, and overall aesthetics, aligning with the brand’s core message.

• Functionality, visitor experience, and engagement: Judges will evaluate how the stand facilitates the visitor experience, considering the layout, accessibility, and integration of interactive features like networking, product trials, or immersive experiences. The stand should encourage easy movement, interaction, and engagement to create a memorable visitor experience.

• Sustainability and environmental impact: Judges will will review the use of sustainable materials, eco-friendly practices, and energy-efficient lighting. The use of reusable or recyclable components and other green initiatives will be key factors in assessing the environmental impact.

• Build quality and technical execution: Judges will consider the craftsmanship and structural integrity of the stand, ensuring it is well-built, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Attention to detail and professional execution will play a significant role in the evaluation.

This award is designed to recognise exceptional event suppliers who provide high-quality products, services, and solutions that significantly contribute to the success of an event. Eligible suppliers can include AV providers, catering companies, furniture rental services, decor specialists, security, transportation, and more. Judges will evaluate the following:

• Quality of products or services: The quality of the supplier's products or services and their ability to meet or exceed the needs of their clients. They will consider the supplier's attention to detail, the use of high-quality materials, and their ability to deliver products or services on time and within budget.

• Reliability and responsiveness: The supplier's reliability and responsiveness to client needs, including their ability to handle last-minute changes or requests. They will consider the supplier's communication skills, responsiveness, and problem-solving ability.

• Customer service and client satisfaction: The supplier’s commitment to delivering excellent customer service, including responsiveness, communication, and problem-solving. Client testimonials, case studies, and feedback on how the supplier exceeded expectations will be considered.

• Innovation and customization: The supplier’s creativity in tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs of the event. Judges will look for innovative approaches and the ability to customize offerings to enhance the overall event experience.

• Impact on event success: The supplier’s contribution to the event’s overall success, including how their products or services added value, improved attendee experience, or streamlined event logistics. Evidence of measurable impact, such as positive client feedback or operational efficiency, will weigh heavily in the evaluation.

This award recognises an event or company that demonstrates an outstanding commitment to environmental responsibility by integrating sustainable practices, innovative strategies, and green initiatives into event planning and execution. It celebrates initiatives that effectively reduce environmental impact, promote sustainability, and inspire industry-wide change. Judges will evaluate the following:

• Sustainability Strategy & Objectives: The clarity, comprehensiveness, and execution of the sustainability strategy, including measurable objectives set to minimize environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability.
• Environmental & Community Impact: The initiative’s effectiveness in reducing environmental harm, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, carbon footprint minimization, and sustainable resource management. Judges will assess measurable improvements such as waste diverted from landfills, energy savings, or emissions reductions, along with positive contributions to the local community.
• Innovation & Creativity: The uniqueness of the initiative and its approach to sustainability. Judges will look for creative solutions, cutting-edge technologies, or industry-first approaches that set a benchmark for sustainable event practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Awareness: The extent to which vendors, suppliers, and attendees were involved in sustainability efforts. Judges will consider initiatives that educate, engage, and encourage stakeholders to adopt greener practices, fostering a culture of sustainability.
• Measurable Results & Scalability: Clear evidence of success supported by data, case studies, or testimonials. Judges will assess the initiative’s scalability and potential for replication across the industry to drive broader sustainability adoption.

This award recognises an innovative and creative temporary venue or structure installation used to deliver a unique event experience. This can include temporary buildings, tents, stages, or other custom structures designed specifically for an event or series of events. The judges will consider the following:

• Design and creativity: The overall design and creativity of the temporary venue or structure, including the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and suitability for the event or events being hosted.

• Innovation and technical achievement: The level of innovation and technical achievement involved in creating the temporary venue or structure, such as the use of new materials, technologies, or building methods.

• Safety, compliance and sustainability: Adherence to safety regulations and standards, ensuring the venue is safe for all attendees. Judges will also consider the sustainability of the materials used and the structure's environmental impact, including energy efficiency and waste reduction practices.

• Functionality and flexibility - The venue’s ability to meet the specific needs of the event, including its capacity, layout, and adaptability to different configurations. Judges will assess how the space was optimized to enhance guest experience and ensure smooth event operations.

• Overall impact and effectiveness: The overall impact and effectiveness of the temporary venue or structure in meeting the needs of the event and creating a unique and memorable experience for attendees.

This award recognises events and organizations that have leveraged cutting-edge technology to enhance the attendee experience, improve event management and logistics, or achieve other event-related goals. These products/solutions need to have a direct impact on the event. The judges will assess the following:

• Innovation and creativity: The level of innovation and creativity involved in the use of new technology at the event, including the use of emerging technologies, unique applications of existing technologies, and the overall impact on the attendee experience.

• Integration and implementation: How effectively the new technology was integrated into the event, including the quality of implementation, the level of training and support provided to staff and attendees, and the overall effectiveness of the technology in achieving event goals.

• User experience and engagement: The impact of the new technology on the user experience and engagement, including the ease of use, accessibility, and overall impact on attendee satisfaction and engagement.

• Measurable impact and results: The measurable impact and results of the new technology, including its effectiveness in achieving event-related goals, improving event management and logistics, or enhancing attendee experience.

This award category recognises permanent structures under 10,000 square meters that are specifically designed or adapted for use as event venues. These venues must be permanent and can be part of an existing facility, such as a hotel or a leisure development, or exhibition center, with a clear focus on hosting events. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Facilities and amenities: The quality and variety of facilities and amenities offered by the venue, including meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, break-out facilities, food and beverage options, technology and audio-visual capabilities, and other services that enhance the attendee experience. The overall functionality and adaptability of the venue to different types of events will also be considered.

• Location and accessibility: Judges will assess the venue’s location in terms of its accessibility to attendees, exhibitors, and organisers. Factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, parking availability, and ease of access for people with disabilities will be important considerations.

• Event management and support: The judges will assess the quality and responsiveness of the venue's event management and support team, including the level of support provided to event organisers and the effectiveness of the team in managing events.

• Reputation and track record: The judges will evaluate the venue's reputation and track record in hosting successful events, including feedback from past clients and attendees.

• Sustainability and environmental impact: Judges will review the venue’s efforts in sustainability, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly practices such as the use of sustainable materials.

This award category recognises permanent structures over 10,000 square meters that are specifically designed or adapted for use as event venues. These venues must be permanent and may be part of an existing facility, such as an exhibition center, convention hall, arena, or large-scale leisure development, with a clear focus on hosting significant events. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Facilities and scalability: Judges will assess the venue’s capacity to host large-scale events, evaluating its range of spaces (e.g., exhibition halls, arenas, multiple conference rooms) and how effectively it can be configured for various event types. The venue’s ability to scale and accommodate events of different sizes while maintaining high standards will be a critical factor.

• Location and accessibility: Judges will assess the venue’s location in terms of its accessibility to attendees, exhibitors, and organisers. Factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, parking availability, and ease of access for people with disabilities will be important considerations.

• Event management and support: The judges will assess the quality and responsiveness of the venue's event management and support team, including the level of support provided to event organisers and the effectiveness of the team in managing events.

• Reputation and track record: The judges will evaluate the venue's reputation and track record in hosting successful events, including feedback from past clients and attendees.

• Sustainability and environmental impact: Judges will review the venue’s efforts in sustainability, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly practices such as the use of sustainable materials.

This award recognises an exceptional video solution that stands out for its innovation, impact, and effectiveness in meeting specific goals. Whether it's for marketing, communication, or entertainment purposes, the Best Video Solution Award celebrates excellence in leveraging the power of video. Judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

• Creativity and innovation: Judges will assess the overall creativity and innovation demonstrated in the video solution. This includes the concept, messaging, design, and the execution of the video content. They’ll also look at interactive elements, personalized content, and effective use of storytelling.

• Measurable results: The success of the video solution against specific, measurable goals will be evaluated. This includes metrics like viewership, engagement rates, conversion rates, and any other relevant key performance indicators.

• Technical excellence: Judges will consider the technical aspects of the video solution, including production quality, cinematography, editing, and overall presentation. Technical proficiency and innovation in video technology will also be considered.

This award is designed to recognise an outstanding brand activation event (single event or series) that created effective touchpoints between the brand and (potential) consumers to provide an extraordinary brand experience for end-users. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Brand alignment: The how well the event aligns with the brand's values, messaging, and image, and how effectively it communicates the brand's unique selling proposition.

• Engagement: How well the event engages the audience and creates a memorable experience, including the use of interactive elements, immersive environments, and other experiential marketing techniques.

• Execution: The overall execution of the event, including the quality of the production, the level of detail in the design and execution, and the effectiveness of the event in achieving its goals.

• ROI: The return on investment (ROI) of the event, including the impact on brand awareness, brand perception, and sales or other key performance indicators.

This award category will acknowledge, encourage, and recognise the outstanding achievements of a young event professional (30 years old or younger) within the events industry who has contributed greatly to the success of their business, the company they work for, or a specific event or series of events. The judges will assess the following:

• Professional accomplishments: The young professional's professional achievements, including their track record of success in the event industry and any specific projects or initiatives they have led.

• Leadership: The young professional's leadership skills, including their ability to inspire and motivate others, their strategic thinking, and their ability to drive results.

• Innovation: The young professional's creativity and innovation in the event industry, including their ability to develop and implement new ideas, strategies, and technologies.

• Impact: The young professionals' impact on the industry, including the extent to which they have contributed to the growth and development of the industry, and their potential to shape the future of the industry.