Cannes Lions 2015 is open for entries

Cannes Lions opened for entries, introducing also significant changes to categories. Among these is the launch of the Creative Data Lion, a response to industry’s demand and set to establish a benchmark for ground-breaking, data-fuelled creativity.

We’re committed to being at the forefront of the industry, which means reflecting trends and at times spearheading them (…) The Creative Data Lion is an embodiment of those principles. Insights from data are a powerful driver of creative solutions, so it’s imperative that this be recognised and celebrated at the Festival. But we are the first global creative awards to do so, which means we are also championing the role data can play in creativity.

Philip Thomas

CEO Cannes Lions

The demand for the new Lion category began to be voiced in 2012 and its development has since been fired by close consultation with the industry. A committee of data specialists, awarded senior creatives, technologists and the wider marketing community shared their expertise with Cannes Lions, which, according to Thomas, had been instrumental in shaping the category.

Their unique insights and contributions have allowed us to carve out a credible, forward-thinking entry section that meets the needs of a progressive, innovative industry.

Philip Thomas

That entry section includes 11 sub-categories encompassing the most creative uses of data and will showcase work where this has been at the core of an idea.

When it comes of Innovation Lions, the competition was expanded into 2 sub-categories (Innovation Technology and Creative Innovation), while Creative Effectiveness Lions eligibility was increased to shortlisted and award winning works from the last 3 year in order to recognise that the business impact of creativity is long term and proven over time; moreover, senior industry experts will assist entrants in developing their submissions through the launch of a Creative Effectiveness Advisory Scheme.

Also in eligibility area, Product Design Lions’ one was extended to work from the last two years.

Another change is the fact that shortlisted and winning entries in Lions Health and Lions Innovation will count towards the Cannes Lions Special Awards including Agency of the Year, Independent Agency of the Year, Network of the Year, Regional Network of the Year and Holding Company of the Year. More information on categories, changes, rules and entry fees are available on Cannes Lions website

This year, the 62nd edition of Cannes Lions takes place on June 21-27, in Cannes, France.