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Don't have an account? Choose an entry category below to begin. Logged in users may also click these to submit additional entries.

Submit Professional Entries Submit Student Entries

Returning Entrants: click here to access your past submissions or select a category from above to make an additional entry.

Judging for the American Advertising Awards will be conducted online.

In some categories, entrants are allowed and/or required to upload additional digital examples of an entry. This is intended to provide more appropriate content for the judges.

Please carefully follow all online submission guidelines provided within the entry system, to ensure that your work is properly represented during all three tiers of the American Advertising Awards competition.

2025/2026 American Advertising Awards Competition

Enter Professional Work Enter Student Work

Rules & Categories

Before entering, be sure to download and read the rules and categories.

Need help? We got you. For support, contact our Awards Committee at winanaddy@baltimoreadvertising.com

Deadlines & Fees

Save on entry fees and tickets! Join AAF Baltimore for exclusive member discounts on entries and award show tickets.
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Professional Competition

Early Entry

(An exclusive benefit for AAF Baltimore Members.)

Deadline: Friday, Dec. 17, 11:59 pm

  • $115 (Single Entry)
  • $140 (Campaign)

Standard Entry

Deadline: Friday, Jan. 9, 11:59 pm

  • AAFB Member: $125 (Single Entry)
  • AAFB Member: $150 (Campaign Entry)
  • Non-Member: $160 (Single Entry)
  • Non-Member: $190 (Campaign Entry)

Approved late entries will incur a late fee.

Student Competition

All Student Entries are due by Jan. 9, 2026.

Before you enter: Join AAF Baltimore for just $15 and unlock exclusive benefits! As a student member, your first entry (single or campaign) is FREE. Plus, you’ll enjoy access to mentorship programs, events, portfolio reviews, and more.

AAFB Student Member Benefits

First Entry (Single or Campaign): FREE — Use Code: STUDENTSWIN

Additional Entries: $35 per entry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an AAF Baltimore member to enter?

No, but members enjoy discounted entry fees, additional entry perks, and reduced event ticket costs. Join the club to unlock savings and exclusive benefits.

Are physical entries required this year?

No. Judging will be completed virtually at all levels. Since these images/videos replace physical entries, take care to represent your entry in the best way possible!

How does the judging process work?

Entries are evaluated by a panel of professionals nationwide, using a weighted scoring system that considers creativity, originality, and strategy. Judging is blind and impartial.

Can I enter the same piece in multiple categories?

Yes, as long as it meets eligibility requirements for each category. Separate entries (and fees) are required for each submission.

How will I be notified if I win?

All winners will receive an email prior to the AAF Baltimore American Advertising Awards Gala, where winners are announced and celebrated.

When is the Awards Gala?

The 2026 American Advertising Awards Gala will be held on March 5, 2026. Winners will be notified beforehand and celebrated live at the event.

Can I attend the Gala if I don’t enter?

Absolutely! The gala is open to all members of the creative community. Join us to celebrate Baltimore’s best work, connect with peers, and enjoy the biggest night in local advertising.

How do winners move to the next level?

Local winners advance to District 2 judging. District 2 (D2) covers the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast: NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, and D.C.

Local Gold winners automatically move to the D2 Competition. Local Silver winners may forward at their discretion and will be contacted by the AAFB Awards Chair.

D2 Gold winners move on to Nationals. D2 Silver winners may forward at their discretion and will be contacted by the D2 Chair.