Cannes Lions introduces new innovation awards category

The 60th Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has introduced Innovation Lions, a new awards category honouring the technology and innovation that lead to the creative idea being possible. The jury aims to select "the most pioneering forms of technology including, but not limited to, apps, tools, programmes, hardware, products and other radical software which have been developed to help facilitate creative excellence in communications".

“Big ideas that are executed using innovative forms of technology such as Nike+ Fuelband, winner of the 2012 Titanium Grand Prix and 'The invisible car', winner of the 2012 Outdoor Grand Prix, are already being recognised and awarded in Cannes,” said Terry Savage, chairman of Lions Festivals. "Innovation Lions are different. They will pay tribute to the actual technology that is driving the industry forward and making it possible for these incredible award-winning ideas to come to fruition, allowing the creative community to communicate with customers in a unique way."

Entrants will be required to submit a written proposal and proof of concept. All shortlisted entrants will explain their technology to the jury in a 10-minute presentation followed by a 10-minute Q&A session.

Cannes Lions delegates can attend these sessions, which will take place in the Palais des Festivals on Sunday 16 June. After discussion and voting, the jury will award an Innovation Grand Prix and Innovation Lions which will be revealed and presented to the winners at the Tuesday 18 June awards show in Cannes.

Entries can be submitted to Innovation Lions from 24 January until 19 April.

For additional information on Innovation Lions visit www.canneslions.com/awards