Submissions Now Open for ADWEEK Agency of the Year 2026

9. Creator / Influencer Agency: Open to agencies at the forefront of social-first, influencer marketing. The winner must demonstrate breakthrough work that drives engagement, shapes culture, and delivers real results. 

10. Global Media Agency: Open to agencies with a multinational presence that specialize in media planning, buying, and strategy. Entries will be evaluated on the ability to deliver cohesive, culturally nuanced campaigns across multiple regions and drive measurable business results for clients. 

11. U.S. Media Agency: Open to agencies headquartered in the United States that specialize in media planning, buying, and strategy. The winner will have demonstrated a strategic approach to media planning and buying, creative use of emerging platforms, and meaningful outcomes for clients.
12. Independent Media Agency: Open to independently owned agencies (not belonging to a holding company) that specialize in media planning, buying, and strategy. The winner will have demonstrated a strategic approach to media planning and buying, creative use of emerging platforms, and meaningful outcomes for clients.

13. Performance Marketing Agency: Open to agencies that demonstrate a strong command of paid media, search, programmatic, and other performance channels, with a clear focus on ROI and business impact.

Key Dates

• Early Bird Deadline: $375 until July 17, 2026
• Standard Deadline: $425 until August 14, 2026
• Extended Deadline: $475 until September 11, 2026

Entries must be submitted through the official submission portal HERE. 

The shortlist will be published on ADWEEK.com in October and the winners will be announced in a special feature package in the December issue (online and in print) on December 8, 2026. Additionally, one winning agency will have the opportunity to design ADWEEK’s magazine cover that month. 

For any questions or extensions, contact pj.bernacki@adweek.com.