The British Interactive Media Association (BIMA) has revealed the shortlist for its BIMA Awards 2016. The awards, celebrating the very best in digital business and innovation, are to be held in Embankment, London on 15 September.

BIMA, founded in 1985, is an association representing the interests of the wider UK digital industry. Its annual awards ceremony is the longest standing and arguably most prestigious digital awards show in the UK. 

The event last year saw Rufus Leonard named Agency of the Year, and P&G owned brand Always was awarded ‘Brand of the year’ for its ‘Like a Girl’ campaign. 

Leading the nominations in 2016 is global advertising agency R/GA, which has managed nominations in 12 categories – including for its work with corporate giants McDonalds and Beats by Dr. Dre. 

Nominees elsewhere include DigitasLBi – which has been included in 11 categories for its work with Mumsnet, AstraZeneca, and the National trust, among others – SapientNitro, AKQA, Realise, Kitsine, Only, Kagool and VML London.

Bridget Beale, managing director of BIMA says, “The BIMA Awards shortlist showcases the power of digital to transform businesses and bottom lines. Our jury has selected game-changing work from all across the country – produced by agencies large and small, by in-house teams at brands and by tech startups. Congratulations to you all and we look forward to the celebrations!" 

The judging panel of BIMA Awards is made up of leading decision makers from a wide-ranging spectrum. 

This year’s panel features Andrea Moore, marketing director at MADE.com, Catherine Flynn, leader of the internal Agency group within Facebook’s marketing team, Sheena Pierse, editorial director at ITV and Dave Patten, head of new media at the Science Museum, as well as many others. 

The winner of the coveted Grand Prix will be specially selected by the judging panel, and announced on the night. In 2015, London-based advertising agency WCRS claimed the Grand Prix prize, for its work in partnership with women’s aid, which included an interactive campaign intended to highlight the issue of domestic abuse. 

A broad range of categories will see trophies awarded for a variety of achievements, including the best brand, start-up and agency of the year. The sector part of the awards covers firms that have made the biggest achievements on a single industry sector, while the discipline section awards those who use different strategies and tools to the best of their abilities.  

Adam Graham, BIMA chairman and consultant at Cact.us, adds, “Brand leaders ask us who is doing the best work; we refer them to the BIMA Awards shortlist. You don't make the grade unless your work stands out across all four judging criteria and with this tough selection process in mind, everyone on the shortlist should feel incredibly proud.” 

The winners are announced at the ceremony, with the full list of nominees now available to view.