Hello fellow professional communicator,
It’s awards season… and if you’re anything like me, that mix of excitement, counting down the days to the submission deadline and anxiously awaiting the awards gala is creeping in!
Oh, by the way, my name is Michael (nice to meet you!). As a past IABC/Toronto Ovation Award winner, I can say this with confidence: submitting your work is absolutely worth it.
With one week left (10 days to be exact) to get your entries in for the 2026 IABC/Toronto Ovation Awards, this is your moment to have your hard work recognized and celebrated.
If you’re stalling because it’s your first time submitting – or because your schedule is packed – worry not. There are excellent resources to help you through both IABC/Toronto Ovation Awards and the IABC Gold Quill Awards, which are aligned to the same standard of excellence.
- Watch the ‘How to submit an award-winning entry’ webinar
- Read the ‘Entry Guide’ for the division you’re submitting to
- Review past award-winning submissions for inspiration
The awards program features four divisions and 25+ categories, so there’s truly a place for every kind of work. Whether you led a full communications strategy, conducted formative research, delivered training or produced a standout tactic – there’s a category for you.
One of the things I like most about this program? Unlike many awards, you’re not competing against other entrants. Your work is evaluated against a standard of excellence. This means exceptional communications are recognized and celebrated on their own merit.
Plus, you write once and can submit your work to IABC’s national and global award programs as well.
If you need approval from your boss to secure funding, use this customizable Justification Letter template to make the conversation easier.
Ever thought, “Is my work good enough?” I did before submitting my first entry. I’ll leave you with this: I’m glad I submitted and I hope you do too.
I can’t wait to see the incredible work our creative comms community puts forward this year and to celebrate your wins at the 41st annual Ovation Awards gala on May 7 at The Carlu.
You’ve got this! Visit toronto.iabc.to to get started. Got questions? Feel free to contact toronto-info@iabc.to.
Warmly,
Michael Blackburn, SCMPⓇ
Award-winning professional communicator