Since 1985, the British Interactive Media Association (BIMA) has represented the burgeoning community of creators within the digital sector. Each year since, the breadth of talent has widened, welcoming a range of digital categories from communications to innovation. This year’s shortlist highlights the adventurous, thought provoking quality of work on offer.

For BIMA, cultivating creative innovation has long been inscribed in the foundation of the association. Its methods in achieving its goals however, have since adopted many of the qualities it rewards. Driving thought leadership through thinktanks and wider community engagement, BIMA’s involvement in the digital space has long recognized the value of collectivity.

Last year’s winners not only saw a host of digital projects recognized, but also showed the diversity of the awards’ categorization. Winning ‘Startup of the Year,’ cat sitting was made easy through a network of insured professionals connecting through ‘Cat in a Flat,’ allowing individuals to safely share details and discover new clientele through a fully integrated digital offering. On the other end of the digital spectrum, BIMA recognized the National Trust’s work in reaching out to over 350,000 digital users. A redeveloped app and website triggered over 12m location views, winning ‘Brand of the Year,’ and aiding to the Trust’s brand purpose of preserving and regenerating numerous natural sites.

This year’s shortlist showcases the true relevance of digital diversity, with 105 shortlisted entries and 35 awards on offer, communications and content categories include the recognition of impact, craft, conscience and innovation. Nominated projects for 2017 feature the ‘Official Gorillaz App’ by London-based agency, B-Reel, as well as Weber Shandwick’s work alongside ActionAidUK entitled ‘Brutal Cut.’ In addition, John Lewis’ ‘Buster the Boxer,’ received a nod in the craft category, while the National Trust return with ‘Virtual Reality – making the inaccessible accessible,’ in the conscience category.

With an esteemed judging panel that includes 47 professionals from the likes of Microsoft, Facebook, LEGO and Grey London, BIMA’s efforts in pushing the digital economy forward continue to expand. Early bird tickets are now on sale, allowing for a 10% discount ending midnight 28 July 2017. The ceremony will take place on 14 September 2017 at The Yard, Shoreditch, London.

To view this year’s BIMA Awards 2017 shortlist, click here.