What the 2026 Big Apple Awards Shortlist Tells Us About Communications Today
Every awards program tells a story. This year's PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards shortlist tells an especially compelling one.
More than a list of finalists, it offers a snapshot of where the communications profession is today and where it's headed. The complete 2026 Big Apple Awards shortlist is now available, showcasing exceptional work from agencies, corporations, nonprofits and organizations across the New York metropolitan area.
One thing becomes clear almost immediately: outstanding communications is coming from everywhere.
This year's finalists represent every corner of the profession. Global agency networks stand alongside independent firms, boutique specialists, in-house corporate communications teams, healthcare organizations, financial services companies, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. Together, they reflect the remarkable depth, creativity and strategic talent that define New York's communications community today.
That diversity is exactly what this year's Big Apple Awards set out to recognize.
The 2026 theme, Where Stories Move Hearts, Minds and Markets, reflects the expanding role communications professionals play in shaping reputation, influencing public opinion, building trust and driving business results.
To better reflect today's profession, PRSA-NY expanded the program with new categories recognizing excellence in financial communications, fintech, AI innovation and purpose-driven campaigns, while relaunching the Ally Award. The result is a competition that better reflects the work communicators are doing every day across industries and disciplines.
Artificial intelligence also makes a strong showing throughout this year's competition. From AI-powered communications platforms to campaigns that thoughtfully integrate AI into research, strategy and execution, this year's finalists demonstrate that AI is becoming another strategic tool in the communicator's toolkit—not replacing creativity or judgment, but strengthening both.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from this year's shortlist is that great work is no longer defined by agency size or budget. Smart strategy, bold ideas, flawless execution and measurable results are what distinguish today's finalists. That's encouraging for every communications professional, whether they're part of a global agency, a growing independent firm, a corporate communications team or a nonprofit organization.
The Big Apple Awards have always celebrated excellence. This year's shortlist celebrates something more: a profession that continues to evolve while remaining grounded in the principles that matter most—trust, creativity, strategic thinking and measurable impact.
The winners will be announced at the 39th Annual Big Apple Awards Gala on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Sony Hall in New York City. Along with honoring this year's winning campaigns, the evening will celebrate the 2026 15 Under 35 class and recognize communications leaders whose careers have made a lasting impact on the profession.
The countdown to the Big Apple Awards Gala has begun. Whether you're a finalist, a colleague, a client or simply someone who believes in the power of great communications, this is the industry's night to come together. Explore the complete shortlist, reserve your tickets or table, and join us on September 17 as we celebrate the campaigns, organizations and professionals raising the bar for communications.
