HOW TO ENTER

Entering the Showcase Awards

• Once the submissions open, you will be able to create an account through AwardsForce, our awards platform.
• Prepare your entry: Gather the information and evidence needed. You’ll need to determine the category for your entry (see “Categories” tab), provide detail about the objective and results of your entry, and upload files related to the project. Here’s an outline of what the form entails . You can save your entries at any time and come back to them, as long as they are submitted before the deadline of January 30, 2026.
• Submitting to multiple categories: You can enter the same project in more than one category, as long as the work submitted meets the criteria. You can use the ‘copy’ feature in AwardForce to create a copy of your entry and change the category as needed.
• Complete entry fee payment: Your total fee will be based on the number of entries submitted and your membership in IMCA (see the “Entry Fees” tab for details). Entry fees may be paid by credit card or check.
  a. If you choose to pay with a credit card, payment must be made via AwardForce when submitting your entry(ies). A merchant fee will be applied to entries paid by Visa, MasterCard and American Express. These fees will be added to your total and outlined in the payment summary. Upon payment, you will receive an automatic email receipt and accounting of your entries.
  b. If you choose to pay with a check, once submitting your entries, you will receive an email with an invoice. IMCA must receive payment by January 30, 2026. Otherwise, your entry(ies) will not be included in the judging process.
• Submit your entry by the deadline of January 30, 2026.
• Await your results! Showcase judges will assess each entry and you will be notified in May if your entry has won an award.
• Questions? Contact the IMCA office via email at info@imcanet.com  or at (952) 928-4666.

IMCA SHOWCASE AWARDS CATEGORIES

 

Advertisements and Marketing Promotions

Marketing communications focused on sales or the marketing and promoting products and services to target audiences.

• Advertising/Promotional Campaign (three or more advertisements)*
• Magazine or Newspaper Advertisement
• Promotional Email Campaign*
• Promotional Email – Single Piece
• Newsletter (Print &Digital)
• Direct Mail Advertisement
• Other Digital/Multimedia Advertisement (such TV, Radio, Podcast Advertisement)
• Other Print Advertisement
• Advertising created in-house (small/medium companies-total employee size <1000)
• Advertising created in-house (large companies-total employee size 1000+)

Strategy:

• Are the goals clearly stated in the objective?
• Are there key take-aways?
• Is it clear who the audience is?
• What is expected of the audience?
• Are there mechanisms to track metrics?

Execution:

• Is the messaging original and visually engaging?
• Is the headline compelling?
• How well does the visual and the headline work together?
• Is the messaging clear for the intended audience?
• Is the brand clearly identified?
• Is there a clear and motivating CTA?

Results:

• Does it achieve its intended objectives or impact?
• How compelling is the presented data?

 

Brochures

Content intended for either internal or external audiences.

• Brochure Campaign or Series (three or more brochures)*
• Promotional Brochure: Company or Capabilities Overview
• Promotional Brochure: Product or Service

Strategy:

• Is the purpose clearly defined?
• Is it clear who the audience is?
• Does the piece effectively address the needs and motivations of its target audience?
• Are there mechanisms to track metrics?

Execution:

• Is the messaging original and visually engaging?
• Is the headline compelling?
• Is the messaging clear for the intended audience?
• Is there a clear and relevant call to action or next step for the reader?
• How well does the piece align with broader brand or campaign objectives?
• Is the piece well-produced, timely, and professionally delivered?
• How original or distinctive is the creative approach?
• Is the brand clearly identified?

Results:

• Did the piece achieve its stated goals and contribute measurable results?
• How was success evaluated (e.g., distribution reach, engagement, leads, feedback)?
• What impact did the piece have on audience perception or behavior?
• Does the submission demonstrate continuous improvement or insight gained from performance?

 

Corporate Communications/Public Relations

Not directly sales-oriented; targeted at analysts, shareholders, or the public, in any medium/format unless specified.

• Corporate Communications/Public Relations Campaign (three or more components)*
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Campaign (three or more components)
• Corporate Communications/Public Relations (News Release, Editorial/Article) – Single Piece
• Employee Recruiting Campaign
• Annual Report
• Corporate Communications created in-house (small/medium companies-total company employee size <1000)
• Corporate Communications created in-house (large companies-total company employee size 1000+)

Strategy:

• Are the goals clear and connected to business or reputational priorities?

• Does the entry show understanding of key stakeholders or external audiences?
• Is the narrative grounded in strategic insight or issue analysis?
• How well is it aligned to the broader brand or corporate positioning?

Execution:

• Are the key messages clear and credible?
• Was there integration across owned and earned channels?
• How well was the media strategy or stakeholder engagement handled?
• Was the communication responsive to events or feedback during rollout?

Results

• How was success tracked or evaluated?
• What evidence is provided of measurable outcomes
• Were objectives achieved within time and resource constraints?
• Did the campaign contribute to brand value?

 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging (DEIB) Communications

Supports the organization’s goals, initiatives, or special events related to DEIB in any medium/format.

• External Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging (DEIB) Marketing or Communications Single Piece or Campaign
• Internal Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging (DEIB) Marketing or Communications Single Piece or Campaign

Strategy:

• Are the goals clearly stated in the objective?
• Are there key take-aways?
• Is it clear who the audience is?
• Are there mechanisms to track metrics?

Execution:

• Does the content reflect diverse identities, perspectives, and experiences?
• Is the communication inclusive in format, language, and design for all audiences?
• Is the messaging respectful and free from stereotypes or bias?
• Does it genuinely promote equity and belonging, and inspire meaningful engagement or change?
• Is the brand clearly identified?

Results:

• Does it achieve its intended goals or impact?
• How compelling is the presented data?

 

Events and Experiences

Any type of event that supports the entrant’s business goals, and can include internal and/or external audiences.

• Webinar/Webcast
• Event Attendee Materials (Agenda, Invitation, etc.)
• In-Person Exhibit Booth/Display and/or Attendee Experience at Booth
• Other Event/Experience (In-Person or Virtual) (small/medium companies-total company employee size <1000 – for events that don’t fit neatly into the other categories but demonstrate exceptional strategic and creative execution.)
• Other Event/Experience (In-Person or Virtual) (large companies-total company employee size 1000+) – for events that don’t fit neatly into the other categories but demonstrate exceptional strategic and creative execution.)
• Virtual Educational Event (Includes virtual summits, seminars and online workshops.)
• Virtual Engagement/Brand Experience Event (Includes virtual trade shows, live online product launches, virtual awards ceremonies and employee engagement events)
• In-Person Educational Conference/Seminar (Includes single- or multi-day events where the primary objective is knowledge transfer and thought leadership.)
• In-Person Relationship Building Event (Includes partner networking events, hospitality, and non-sales-focused gatherings that build brand loyalty and community.)
• In-Person Sales Incentive/Recognition Event (Includes incentive trips, galas and awards for top performers.)

Strategy:

• Are the goals clearly stated in the objective?
• How well does the event align with broader marketing or business objectives?
• Is it clear who the audience is?
• Are there mechanisms to track metrics?

Execution:

• How well was the event planned, coordinated and executed?
• Were logistics, timing and production quality handled effectively?
• How original or innovative was the event concept or theme?
• How well was the brand integrated into the design and atmosphere?
• Did the experience encourage meaningful participation or interaction?

Results:

• Did the event achieve its intended objectives or impact?
• What measurable outcomes were demonstrated?
• What feedback was received from attendees or stakeholders?
• Did the event deliver continued engagement beyond the experience?

 

Internal/Employee Communications

Not directly sales-oriented; targeted at employees supporting the organization’s goals, initiatives, or special events in any medium/format.

• Employee Communications Campaign (three or more components)*
• Employee Communications – Single Piece

Strategy:

• Is the purpose of the communication clearly defined and aligned to organisational goals?
• Were objectives specific (e.g., engagement, behaviour change, awareness)?
• Was the approach based on insight or feedback from staff?
• Is there evidence of strategic alignment with wider internal or cultural initiatives?

Execution:

• Is the tone authentic, motivating, and consistent with company values?
• Were internal channels used effectively and creatively (e.g., email, video, town halls, intranet)?
• Is the creative or format engaging and accessible?
• Was the delivery well-planned and professional?

Results:

• Is there clear evidence of engagement or behaviour change among employees?
• Did the activity meet or exceed its stated objectives?
• Are metrics, results or qualitative feedback provided?
• What measurable business or cultural outcomes resulted?
• Has learning been captured or improvements made for future initiatives?

 

Long-Form Written Publications

Content intended for internal or external audiences.

• Blog/Article Campaign – Series or Collection*
• Blog/Article – Single Piece
• Magazines (printed or digital)
• Long-Form Instructional Guide
• Newsletter (Print & Digital)
• Other Long-Form Written Publication (eBook, research report, white paper)

Strategy:

• Is the purpose of the publication clear and audience well-defined?
• Does it demonstrate understanding of reader interests or industry issues?
• How well does it align with organisational thought leadership or brand goals?
• Was there a content strategy or editorial plan underpinning it?
• Are success measures or distribution goals identified?

Execution:

• Is the content high-quality, well-structured, and insightful?
• Does the writing show clarity, originality, and authority?
• How effective are design and layout in supporting readability?
• Are visuals, infographics, or data displays used effectively?

Results:

• Is there evidence of reach, readership, or engagement?
• Did it strengthen reputation or generate leads, enquiries, or citations?
• Was there measurable influence (e.g., media pick-up, industry recognition)?
• Did the piece have lasting value or impact beyond launch?

 

Podcasts

Content intended for internal or external audiences; no length limit.

• Podcast Campaign (three or more podcast episodes)*
• Podcast – Single Episode

Strategy:

• Is the show’s purpose and audience clearly defined?
• Is it positioned distinctively within its niche or category?
• Does it serve a clear business, brand, or community goal?
• Was there a content or guest strategy designed around audience needs?
• Were success measures or engagement goals established upfront?

Execution:

• How engaging and relevant is the content and discussion?
• Are the episodes well-structured, paced, and hosted?
• Is the production quality (sound, editing, consistency) professional?
• Does it reflect the brand’s tone and personality effectively?

Results:

• Are listener metrics (downloads, retention, reviews) provided?
• Has the podcast grown its audience or community over time?
• Did it generate engagement, PR coverage, or follow-on opportunities?
• Is there evidence of influence or thought-leadership impact?
• How well did results meet the stated objectives?

 

Videos

Content intended for internal or external audiences; no limit to video length.

• Video Campaign (three or more videos)*
• Community Relations/Philanthropic Video
• Promotional Video
• Brand Positioning Video
• Instructional/Training Video
• Other Video (Internal & External)
• Video on a Shoestring (small/medium companies-total company employee size <1000)
• Video on a Shoestring (large companies-total company employee size 1000+)

Strategy:

• Are the goals clearly stated in the objective?
• Are there key take-aways?
• Is it clear who the audience is?
• Are there mechanisms to track metrics?

Execution:

• Is the narrative clear, engaging, and well-paced?
• Does the video use original concepts, compelling visuals, and creative editing?
• Does it capture attention, evoke emotion, or prompt action from the intended audience?
• Is the brand clearly identified?
• Is there a clear and motivating CTA?

Results:

• Does it achieve its intended goals or impact?
• How compelling is the presented data?

 

Social Media

Any social platform, with published content in any format.

• Social Media Campaign (series of posts for a single objective)*
• Social Media: Single Post/Piece of Content
• Overall Social Channel Presence (single channel)*

Strategy:

• Were the submission’s goals clearly defined and measurable (e.g., awareness, engagement, conversion)?
• How well did the social strategy align with broader marketing or business objectives?
• Was the target audience clearly understood and effectively reached?
• Did the platform choices and posting strategy support the campaign’s purpose?

Execution:

• How original or innovative was the concept, theme or execution?
• Did the content stand out?
• Is the messaging clear for the intended audience?
• Is the brand clearly identified?
• Were community management and audience interactions handled effectively?
• Did posting encourage authentic engagement, sharing or participation?
• Were formats used strategically (e.g., video, carousel, stories, etc.)?

Results:

• Did submission meet or exceed its stated KPIs or objectives?
• What measurable results (engagement rate, reach, conversions, follower growth, etc.) were achieved?
• What qualitative outcomes (brand sentiment, audience feedback, storytelling impact) were demonstrated?
• Did the submission provide evidence of learning, optimization or long-term brand value?

 

Websites, Portals, and Apps

• Customer or Agent Portal (The portal cannot be publicly accessible, i.e., must only be accessible with login credentials.)
• External Website
• Internal Website (intranet)

Strategy:

• Are the goals of the website, portal, or app clearly defined and measurable?
• How well does the strategy align with overall marketing or business objectives?
• Is the target audience clearly identified, and are their needs reflected in the approach?
• How effectively does the experience support the brand’s positioning and purpose?

Execution:

• Is the design visually engaging, accessible and consistent with brand standards?
• How intuitive and user-friendly is the navigation and overall experience?
• Does the site, portal or app demonstrate innovation or creativity in solving user challenges?
• Is the content organized logically and presented in an engaging, responsive format?

Results:

• Did the submission achieve its stated objectives or KPIs?
• What measurable outcomes or analytics demonstrate effectiveness?

 

Miscellaneous Tactics

Any medium/format.

•  Best Redesign/Refresh (single item)
  a. Entries in this category should have a single component (e.g., one logo, one website, one brochure, etc.) that has been redesigned.
• Best Redesign/Refresh Campaign*
  a. Entries in this category have multiple components of a larger redesign/refresh effort (e.g., a brand refresh or marketing material overhaul).
• Contest/Gamification
• Promotional Item/Branded Merchandise
• Most Out-of-the-Box Idea
• Sales Generating Campaign of the Year
• My project doesn’t fit under any of these categories
  a. Please note that prior to judging, entries in this category will be reviewed. If it is  determined that there is an existing category that is appropriate for the entry, it will be moved to that category.

Strategy:

• Are the goals clearly stated in the objective?
• Are there key take-aways?
• Is it clear who the audience is?
• Are there mechanisms to track metrics?

Execution:

• Does the tactic align with overall brand goals and campaign strategy?
• Is the approach fresh, unexpected, or creatively executed?
• Is the tactic well-produced, timely, and professionally delivered?
• Does it generate engagement, buzz, or measurable results?
• Is the brand clearly identified?

Results:

• Does it achieve its intended objectives or impact?
• How compelling is the presented data?

 

Campaigns by Amount Spent (three or more components)

The campaign must include three or more components. Consider all costs, external and internal, including print and media buy. Must include the cost breakdown in the entry.

• Total Campaign less than $5K*
• Total Campaign between $6K and $15K*
• Total Campaign between $16K and $30K*
• Total Campaign between $31K and $50K*
• Total Campaign between $51K and $100K*
• Total Campaign more than $100K*

Strategy:

• Are the campaign objectives and target audience clearly defined?
• Is there a rationale for the budget level and media choices?
• Does it address a specific market opportunity or challenge?
• Was success defined in meaningful, measurable terms?

Execution:

• How strong and distinctive is the creative concept?
• Was the idea executed effectively across chosen channels?
• Is the campaign well-crafted and consistent with brand identity?
• Were resources used efficiently and creatively to maximize impact?
• Was the delivery professional and coherent across touchpoints?

Results:

• How effectively did the campaign achieve its goals relative to spend?
• Is there evidence of strong ROI or value created from limited resources?
• Are metrics (awareness, engagement, conversions, etc.) clearly presented?
• Did it deliver disproportionate impact or creativity for its scale?
• What insights or learnings were gained for future campaigns?

IMCA SHOWCASE AWARDS ENTRY FEES

$275 (members)
$400 (non-members)

Submissions open January 12, 2026.

Want to become a member to get reduced rates? Apply to become a member now!

TIMELINE

Program Timeline