Welcome to the Big Apple Awards 2026
In New York, the global capital of media and influence, storytelling is not a soft skill. It is a catalyst. Strategic communications move hearts and minds and ultimately move markets.
This year’s theme, Where Stories Move Hearts, Minds and Markets, reflects the power of modern communications to inspire action, build trust, advance causes and influence decisions across industries and communities.
We have refreshed and expanded this year’s categories to reflect where the industry is going, including financial communications, fintech, AI innovation, sustainability and purpose-driven campaigns. We are also proud to relaunch the Ally Award, recognizing communications that advance equity, inclusion and meaningful change.
We invite agencies, brands, nonprofits and communications professionals to submit their best work from the past year. Campaigns are eligible if any portion of the work was executed by New York metro-based practitioners.
Join us in celebrating the best in communications at the 2026 Big Apple Awards Gala at Sony Hall on September 17, 2026.
Best regards,
Stephanie Jo Peksen, Co-Chair 2026 Big Apple Awards
Marc Drechsler, Co-Chair 2026 Big Apple Awards
Why Enter The 2026 Big Apple Awards
Gain recognition from the PR industry’s most respected leaders
Showcase your work to clients, peers and future partners
Benchmark your campaigns against the best in New York
Celebrate your team on one of the industry’s biggest stages
Key Dates
Early Bird Submission Deadline: April 24, 2026
Final Submission Deadline: May 17, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET
Tickets Go on Sale and Nomination Shortlist Announced: July 2026
Awards Gala at Sony Hall: September 17, 2026
How to Enter
Review all 2026 Categories HERE and find the best fit for your work
Prepare your submission
For full submission requirements, eligibility and guidelines, please visit the Zealous submission portal.
Submit Your Entry: https://zealous.co/prsany/opportunity/2026-big-apple-awards/
What Winners Say
“The PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards are the pinnacle showcase of the PR season. The credibility of PRSA-NY brings an added level of distinction. Knowing your work is being judged by your peers in the media capital of the world makes the recognition especially meaningful.”
- John Gogarty, President, Coyne Public Relations
“In today’s noisy and complex world, ideas need to break through not just creatively, but culturally. The Big Apple Awards are proof that the ideas our teams bring to the table show up in the world, get noticed and move brands forward.”
- Tracey Santilli, President, Carmichael Lynch and Carmichael Lynch Relate
Sponsors and Chapter Champions
PRSA-NY is grateful for the support of its members and the broader PR community, including sponsors Edelman, Hunter, Burson, 360PR+, Truescope, Davis + Gilbert, Anchin, The Museum of Public Relations, and Notified.
Become a Sponsor
Join a community of organizations shaping the future of communications by supporting the PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards and the broader work of the Chapter.
Sponsorship offers the opportunity to align your brand with one of the industry’s most respected awards programs while engaging year-round with a highly influential network of communications leaders.
Support the Big Apple Awards and gain visibility leading up to and during the Gala at Sony Hall.
Extend your impact by becoming a PRSA-NY Chapter Champion, with recognition across programming, content, and community initiatives throughout the year.
Engage directly with senior professionals across agencies, brands, nonprofits and media.