The student-to-industry award celebrating good work that does good work.

Minerva students launched the Backbone Awards in 2022 as an answer to a Young Ones brief. The annual award recognizes great work that does more than just sell a brand.

To be considered for the Backbone Awards, work must demonstrate corporate social responsibility or make a positive cultural impact in its own right, and the advertising agency responsible must be located in the United States. Minerva students choose the nominees. Students across the country vote for the winners. (Votes must have “.edu” email address.)

The shortlist of nominees is announced — and voting opens — on December 1. Voting closes on January 31. Winners are announced on the first Monday of February. The Bronze Backbone — the top award — is hand-delivered by two Minerva students picked by their peers. One Bronze Backbone, our highest honor, and one Aluminum Backbone are awarded each year.

Winners Archive (Good work that does good work.)