The National Advertising Challenge Is Back!

National Advertising Challenge

The National Advertising Challenge is not about showcasing previously produced content, it is a competition based from a blank slate. Hundreds of agencies from across Canada compete for the best ideas based on a brief that comes directly from the brands. The purpose of this challenge is to discover intrusive, compelling communication in the form of brilliant ideas.

The process of this competition begins with a brief. This brief is shared with roughly 8,000 creatives at over 200 agencies across Canada. The creative teams at these agencies are then responsible to create concepts that are compelling and unlike no other. The purpose of these concepts are to answer the brief and to be entered in the show. The entries are judged by a panel of judges with plenty of marketing experience. The “Gold Winners” are announced then flown to the Cannes Lions Festival to have their work acknowledged and recognized on a larger scale.

The National Advertising Competition is open to all involved in advertising and communication. This includes advertising agencies, production companies, advertisers and more. There is also a student category that is open to all those involved in a creative post-secondary program across Canada. This competition could be considered a tremendous learning opportunity and it is completely free to enter.

To enter, begin by downloading the required brief. This will then be followed by creating a submission that meets all the specifications. Entries are welcomed and encouraged to be entered in multiple categories. Each Category will be meticulously judged by a select group of leaders in the advertising field. They will make judgments based on innovation, creativity, and its contribution to the overall ambition of the organization.

In respect to the current pandemic. The National Advertising Challenge recognizes the financial impact that many are facing due to COVID. With this being said, there are cash prizes to be won to assist winning teams. The National Advertising Challenge has been occurring for 15 years and has partnered with 152 brands.

Creativity and innovation in marketing is to be acknowledged and celebrated. The National Advertising Challenge allows for individuals and teams to express their ideas and talents. For more information, download the full entry guide.

Written by Zaniah Friesen