How to Enter the American Advertising Awards with AAF Columbus: A Step-by-Step Guide

The American Advertising Awards, is the advertising industry's largest and most prestigious competition. Hosted by the American Advertising Federation (AAF), it recognizes and rewards creative excellence across all forms of advertising. AAF Columbus holds its own Addy competition, giving local creatives a chance to showcase their work. If you want to submit your work and take part in this exciting event, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Understand the Categories

Before you begin creating your submission, it's essential to know the categories in which your work may fit. The American Advertising Awards competition is divided into three primary levels:

  1. Local (AAF Columbus)

  2. District (AAF District 5)

  3. National (AAF National)

Each level has different categories ranging from print, digital, video, radio, and outdoor to newer digital categories such as social media campaigns, mobile apps, websites, and integrated campaigns.

For the AAF Columbus American Advertising Awards, you’ll primarily be submitting to the local competition, which then has the chance to advance to the District and National levels.

Categories Include:

  • Advertising Campaigns

  • Branding and Identity

  • Digital/Interactive

  • Film, Video, & Sound

  • Print Advertising

  • Public Service

  • Student Entries (if you are a student, this category is for you!)

Each category has specific requirements, so be sure to review the guidelines to ensure you submit your work in the correct category. Official Rule & Category Book

Step 2: Review the Rules and Eligibility

Make sure you are familiar with the rules for submitting. The rules can vary by year, so always consult the official AAF Columbus American Advertising Awards entry kit and competition guidelines.

  • Eligibility: Work must have been produced in the past year. Ensure your work falls within the eligibility period.

  • Agency vs. Independent: Agencies, freelancers, and in-house creative teams can all submit work.

  • Creative Work: Submissions must be your original work or created for clients you represent.

Step 3: Prepare Your Entries

Once you have a clear understanding of the categories and rules, it’s time to prepare your entries. Each entry must be submitted according to specific format and technical requirements. Our judging will be held virtually, so please present work in its best way by uploading photos, videos or documents.

  • Digital Entries: Prepare URLs, video files, or screenshots in the required format. Be sure to test digital assets for functionality and quality.

  • Video Entries: Provide a high-quality digital file (such as MP4) with clear, professional production values.

  • Social Media Campaigns: Provide links, screenshots, or video documenting your work’s success and reach.

You may be required to provide an explanation of the project’s objectives, target audience, and results. Be concise and professional in your descriptions.

Step 4: Register for the Competition

To enter the American Advertising Awards , you must first create an account and register on the AAF Columbus entry system. https://enter.americanadvertisingawards.com/a/organizations/05-COL/home

Here’s how:

  1. Create an Account: If you’re a first-time entrant, you’ll need to create a profile on the AAF Columbus website. This account will be used for all communication and updates related to your submission.

  2. Select Categories: After logging in, select the categories that best fit your work. You can submit multiple entries in multiple categories, but each entry will require a separate submission form and fee.

  3. Submit Your Work: Upload your digital files or provide any necessary links (for websites, videos, etc.). If you have physical entries, follow the instructions for submission (drop-off location, packaging, etc.).

Step 5: Pay Entry Fees

Once your entries are complete and submitted, you’ll need to pay the entry fees. The fees vary depending on whether you are a member of AAF Columbus or not. Generally, AAF members receive discounted rates. Fees are typically per entry or per campaign, and there may be additional fees for late submissions.

You can pay securely online via the competition portal.

Step 6: Attend the American Advertising Awards

After the entries are submitted and the judging process is complete, AAF Columbus will host the Addy Awards Gala. This event is where winners are announced and celebrated.

  • Event Details: The Awards typically includes a cocktail hour and an awards presentation.

  • Networking Opportunities: This is an excellent time to connect with other local creatives, agencies, and professionals in the advertising industry.

  • Celebrate Your Success: Whether you win a Gold, Silver, or Student ADDY, the show is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate your hard work and creativity.

Step 7: Celebrate & Advance to the District Awards

Winning a Gold or Silver ADDY at the local level opens the door for your work to be submitted to the AAF District 5 competition. If your work is selected at the district level, it will then be considered for the National American Advertising Awards.

Be proud of your work and the recognition you receive, whether it’s at the local, district, or national level!

Additional Tips for Success:

  • Plan Ahead: Start preparing your entries early. The submission process can be time-consuming, especially if you're entering multiple categories.

  • Quality Over Quantity: While it’s tempting to submit everything you’ve worked on, focus on your best work that fits the categories and has a clear creative concept.

  • Tell a Story: When writing your project descriptions, focus on the goals, creative process, and results. Judges love to hear about how your work made an impact.

  • Collaborate and Network: If you’re part of an agency or creative team, don’t hesitate to involve your colleagues in the process. The Addy Awards is a great networking opportunity.

Conclusion

The American Advertising Awards through AAF Columbus is an exciting opportunity to gain recognition for your creativity, talent, and hard work. By following this guide, preparing your entries according to the rules, and celebrating your successes, you’ll be well on your way to potentially winning one of advertising’s most coveted awards.

For the most up-to-date information on deadlines, categories, fees, and specific submission requirements, always visit the official AAF Columbus website.

Good luck, and we can’t wait to see your amazing work at the Addy Awards!