You’ve got to stand for something.
Usually, the industry gives awards to students. But, the Backbone Awards are the first student-to-industry award celebrating good advertising work that does good work. Minerva students choose the nominees. Students from around the country vote.
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, advertisers must create work that promotes a high level of corporate social responsibility or make a positive cultural impact in its own right. The agency or company responsible must be located in the United States. Minerva students choose the nominees and then open up the voting to students across the country.
A single Bronze Backbone, our highest honor, and one Aluminum Backbone are awarded each year.
The Bronze Backbone is hand-delivered by two Minerva students chosen by their peers.
Important Dates
December 1 – The shortlist of nominees is announced (and voting opens) on December 1.
January 31 – Voting closes.
February 3 (or following Monday) – Winners are announced.
Winners Archive
2023 Winners
2022 Winners
