New Categories for 2026
GAMING The creative use of video games and gamified interactive media for desktop, mobile, web, virtual or web 3.0 platforms to create branded experiences.
ENTERTAINMENT & CONTENT Honors storytelling that leverages entertainment to market a brand, product, or service. This category moves far beyond traditional marketing and into genuine engagement awarding work that captivates audiences in ways indistinguishable from entertainment alone. Leveraging ecosystems like film, television, gaming, mobile, and live events.
THE DEMOCRACY AWARD This initiative forms part of the European Parliament’s outreach to the creative industry and supports its efforts to amplify the promotion of democracy and democratic values. While the Parliament has no operational role in this award, it recognises creativity as a powerful catalyst for democratic engagement.
2026
Key Dates
Entry System Opens:
2nd March 2026 @
35% Early Bird Discount
Eligibility:
Work released from
1st July 2025 thru 31st August 2026
Creative LIAisons Virtual Coaching Program:
May thru November 2026
Onsite Judging:
25th September thru 3rd October 2026 at Encore @ Wynn Las Vegas
Onsite Creative LIAisons:
27th September thru 1st October 2026 at Encore @ Wynn Las Vegas
Winners & Finalists Announced:
28th September thru 5th October
2026
Key Dates
April thru November 2026
27th September thru 1st October 2026
Creative LIAisons Funded By Lia
Creative LIAisons was launched in 2012 and has developed and inspired over 2,000 young creatives through both onsite and virtual programs. Its goal is to give the next generation access to learn from the most experienced and awarded people in the industry and the opportunity to skill-up without a price tag, as LIA fully funds this initiative.
By providing direct access to industry trailblazers, this initiative inspires, mentors and elevates the next generation of creative visionaries, equipping them with the insights and connections needed to thrive in the ever-evolving industry.
LIA doesn’t directly select attendees. We offer global allocations to the creative community that supports us. Candidates are then put forward by these companies, agency networks, ad clubs and associations, as well as, collaborating with trade press on regional competitions. Annually, over 300 young creatives participate in the most comprehensive global training program in the industry.
Many of those whom have completed Creative LIAisons are now high-level creatives and company founders. An elite few have even been invited as a coach, a speaker or as a LIA juror.
Sponsors
Media Partners
