The Global Performance Marketing Awards (GPMAs) are back this year, kicking off the PI LIVE Europe - Festival of Partnerships in style.
In 2026, categories are split into six segments: Partnerships & Collaboration, Campaign Excellence, Programme & Strategy, Innovation, Data & Technology, Performance Channels & Execution and Teams & Industry, demonstrating the depth and breadth of expertise across the industry.
But how do you write a winning entry, what are the common pitfalls and what sets a submission apart from the competition?
With our entry deadline closing in, we’ve collected the top tips from our GPMA judges to guide you through the process.
Detail, data and measurable outcomes
Neguin Farhangmehr, ND Agency's Founder and Managing Director, says the devil is in the details.
“Make sure you read the entry requirements carefully and tailor your submission to address each one clearly.”
Alongside this, remember, data matters, so focus on measurable outcomes.
“And if possible, include ROI results to really highlight the impact of your work.”
Jan Harling, Virtus Asia's CEO, builds on this point, recommending that submissions don’t just focus on outputs, but outcomes.
“Show how your strategy delivered measurable business results — not just impressions or clicks,” says Harling, adding that entrants need to articulate their strategy “very clearly.”
Meanwhile, Takahito Nakamura, Global Lead, Global Partnerships and Affiliates at eBay, Inc., advises that the energy you bring can do a lot of the legwork.
“Bring your passion and excitement to the entry. No fancy words, but excitement, why it is important, ideas, and results.”
Shaping a sharp story
But, at the same time, don’t throw structure out of the window.
Julius Ewig, Managing Director at Countlessdots GmbH, says it’s important to ensure your entry is easy to follow and leaves out the filler.
“A strong submission tells a sharp story and makes it easy for judges to understand the impact at a glance.”
Laura Redman, Co-Founder of The Redman Agency, shares a similar sentiment: “Tell a sharp story; what the goal was, what made your approach unique, and why it worked. Cut the fluff and lead with impact.”
Demonstrating innovation is key
In an industry where new tech launches and approaches abound, what makes a solution or strategy truly innovative?
Founder of NRG Digital, Danny Nagra, says entrants need to showcase how they leveraged new channels, data science or creative formats to “break through the noise” and deliver measurable results.
And when working in silos is easy to slip into, entrants should demonstrate how they’ve activated cross-channel integration, says Nagra.
This means explaining how teams have used Mixed Media Modelling or other methodologies to balance investment, optimise performance and drive incremental growth, adds Nagra.
The basics and visuals
Another hurdle that can catch out hopefuls comes down to some of the practical elements of submissions.
Brook Schaaf, CEO of FMTC, says to watch out for password-protected downloads — everything should be accessible via URL.
Meanwhile, getting visual can help translate your impact in a way that’s memorable.
Nagra says that charts, infographics and succinct call-outs can help illustrate key points.
“A polished, easy-to-scan entry ensures your best work shines,” he adds.
To vie for a chance at the crown, don’t miss your chance to submit. Submissions close 23rd of July. You can find our entry kit here.
