There is no cost to enter the Development Awards.
The Rising Marketing Star, Rising Agency Star and Rising Creative Star categories are by nomination only. If you know someone or work with a Rising Star that you would like to nominate, please do so with a nomination of 200 words to [email protected] no later than February 12, 2026.
Candidates will be contacted, asked to complete a questionnaire and if shortlisted, will be invited for interview on Zoom on May 06, 2026.
Please note we can only accept a maximum of 2 nominations per organisation.
1.1 Star School Award
his award will be presented to the team of pupils that produces the best marketing strategy as part of their business plan for a new product or service developed in line with the YES Business Award involving schools throughout Scotland.
1.2 Star Marketing Student
Star Marketing Students are nominated by universities and colleges from across Scotland and assessed at an Apprentice Day involving several team tasks as well as individual interviews. The finalists will be invited to the Star Awards Celebration Dinner with the overall winner receiving a paid placement with Edrington.
All nominated students are rewarded with a full year’s membership with The Marketing Society sponsored by Edrington.
1.3 Aspiring Creative Star
The Aspiring Creative Star Award has been developed to encourage entrants from all backgrounds who may be interested in a career in advertising and the range of creative disciplines in marketing communications.
The finalists will be invited to the Star Awards Celebration Dinner as well as receiving a full year’s membership with The Marketing Society sponsored by Edrington
The overall winner of the award will be offered a paid placement at Union Direct.
This award is sponsored by Union Direct.
Rising Stars
Candidates can be of any age but should have less than 7 years’ experience working in the marketing industry. Candidates should be nominated based on their achievements in 2025 and potential to become an inspirational leader.
Nominations should be less than 200 words. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a questionnaire, and interviews will take place via Zoom on May 06, 2026.
1.4 Rising Agency Star
The following areas will be scored:
- Achievements in 2025 – 40 points
- Experience – 10 points
- Expertise – 10 points
- Ambition – 10 points
- Interview – 30 points
1.5 Rising Creative Star
The following areas will be scored:
- Achievements and projects in 2025 - 30 points
- Portfolio – 20 points
- Experience – 10 points
- Ambition – 10 points
- Interview – 30 points
This award is sponsored by John Doe Group.
1.6 Rising Marketing Star
The following areas will be scored:
- Achievements in 2025 – 40 points
- Experience – 10 points
- Expertise – 10 points
- Ambition – 10 points
- Interview – 30 points
This award is sponsored by StudioLR.
THE STARS ARE CALLING
Make sure you submit your entries by the awards deadline of 23:59 on February 12, 2026.
Strategic Partners
Sponsors & Supporters
Event Partner
Creative Partner
Website Partner
