So many categories have been tweaked this year and some new ones thrown in, writes Sara Yirrell. There really is something for everyone - but the work is never done.
Last month the 31st CRN Channel Awards were launched bringing with them a whole new raft of possibilities for companies to really shout about their achievements this year.
As with most of CRN's awards, the categories are constantly reviewed and tweaked to ensure they are still relevant to today's ever-changing channel. Categories that only received a handful of entries last year have been retired and replaced with something new.
With over 30 categories to choose from, we are confident there is something for everyone, but that doesn't mean we won't listen to constructive feedback. For example we were asked about an AV and Print category this year once the awards were launched, but when we had a category covering those topics a few years ago they were very lightly entered. If you feel strongly that we have missed a particular category out, then please do get in touch. If the demand is there, it will definitely be covered.
So what is new in 2024?
In a nutshell, so much is new!
Following feedback, it was suggested that the term ‘reseller' should be replaced with ‘partner' - so that is what we have done. It will be interesting to see if the wider audience react to it in the same way.
Also in the reseller section, the ‘Rising Star' category has been replaced with ‘One to Watch', and Partner of the Year revenue brackets have been revised. The need to create a level playing field and avoid David vs Goliath style battles was very real.
We also have brand new categories for all three channel tiers to enter - Best DE&I project/Initiative and Best Sustainability Project/Initiative. These have both come about as a result of feedback. CRN does run two other awards events based on both Women and Diversity, and Sustainability, but there was high demand to include these categories in the Channel Awards too. The judging panel are looking forward to reading about all the wonderful initiatives and work going on in both these crucial areas throughout the year.
Vendors have also had a bit of a tweak - with an award for Vendor Channel Team of the Year being launched to recognise the whole hardworking team, and also ‘Emerging Vendor' has been renamed as ‘Rising Star Vendor'.
And it would be churlish of us to ignore the rise of AI in our industry - that is why we have AI-Driven/Powered Project of year. In year one, all three channel tiers will compete against each other, if the demand is there, we will eventually add extra categories.
Please enter, but please read the criteria
It is always great to see new and established names submitting entries, and every one is appreciated and welcomed, but the one thing I would stress above all else, is to read the criteria carefully before starting an entry. It really is there to help.
Particularly vendors. Every year we see some very well-known names submit entries that really fail to do them justice and it is clear the criteria has not been read beforehand. Please don't make this mistake! It is frustrating for the judges who know how much better these entries could be if the criteria was read.
Another tip is to avoid entering multiple categories with the same entry - the judges WILL notice. It is always better to submit one really great entry than four really average entries that don't hit the mark.
The entry deadline of 28 June is already starting to creep up. And an extra little warning to those who are shortlisted in the ‘big five' categories: Vendor of the Year, Partner of the Year (£25-£250m), Partner of the Year (£250m+), Distributor of the Year (£100m - £300m) and Distributor of the Year (£300m+), you will be required to present in front of the judges at the Finalists judging day on Wednesday 2 October in central London. You will be sent all the information you need well ahead of time.
Thank you again for all your support for these awards over the past 31 years. We literally couldn't do it without you!
Please do get in touch with one of the team if you have any questions or suggestions for next year. We are here to listen and help. Your feedback really does matter.
The deadline for entries is FRIDAY 28 JUNE. Please visit the dedicated website here for all entry advice and to submit your entry. The very best of luck to you all.
