Competition novelties 2025
Competition novelties
This year`s updates relate to the entry process, reflecting the evolving industry landscape:
- AI disclaimer - A new disclosure question has been introduced, requiring entrants to specify if and how AI technology was used in their submitted works.
- Cultural context question - To highlight the importance of local markets, the cultural context question - previously unique to the Genius Loci / Local Spirit group - will now be expanded to all groups and categories.
New partnership
This year marks the beginning of an exciting new partnership with thenetworkone, dedicated to supporting independent agencies that often face challenges in gaining global recognition. Through this collaboration, Grand Prix and Gold-winning works from independent agencies will automatically qualify for the Indie Awards 2026, providing them with a platform to showcase their creative excellence on another international stage.
Julian Boulding, Founder and President of thenetworkone, favours the Golden Drum as the festival he most enjoys coming back to, since “Golden Drum has time for everyone. Large agency, small agency, it doesn’t matter here. Are you looking for talented young people from the other side of Europe, honing their skills, ready to break onto the world’s biggest stages. This is where you will find them.” And he emphasizes the connection of Indie Awards being founded in the same spirit: “Not as a stop-off to gather a few points in the Champions league of creativity, not to celebrate the agency with the biggest budget for awards entry fees and sponsorships – but the agencies and the people who do the freshest, most inspiring, most empathetic work – wherever they are from. “
Extended partnership
Furthermore, our continued partnership with Little Black Book ensures that all Grand Prix winners gain direct entry into The Immortal Awards competition, further enhancing their visibility and industry recognition.
Golden Drum is also featured in the AdForum Business Creative Report, a unique ranking of the world’s most-awarded campaigns by industry sector.
"We are proud to have supported Golden Drum for several years, as we share the same mission: to inspire and promote innovative talent within the communications industry." Philippe Paget, Global Chief Executive Officer, AdForum
See more about all novelties presented by the festival here.
