Frequently Asked Questions

Award for Communications Excellence (ACE Awards)

In This Section:

Overview • Eligbility & Entry Information • Categories for Submission • Frequently Asked Questions • Judging Criteria • ACE Award Winners

Frequently Asked Questions: Award for Communication Excellence

Do I need to submit both hard copies and electronic versions of my entries?

Yes, your entry synopsis should be submitted electronically to ACE Awards, and also included in your actual entry binder. We welcome electronic versions of the supporting materials so that we may share the winning entries on the ACCE website.The thumbnail must have a minimum resolution of 72 dpi and be in .jpg or .gif format. The electronic sample should be in .pdf format and must not exceded ten pages. If the communication piece is larger than ten pages, we recommend submitting the "best" ten pages. For webpage and video submissions, should include screen shots as their electronic sample.

Does my chamber need to be a member of ACCE to enter an awards?

Yes. Only ACCE member chambers of commerce or similar organizations may submit an entry. Vendors may not submit a piece on behalf of a chamber of commerce.

What is the deadline for submission of all entries?

Entries must be postmarked and electronic synopses received by February 25, 2008. Entries postmarked after February 25, 2008 will not be accepted. The Early Bird deadline is February 15, 2008. In order to receive the Early Bird discount, all entries must be postmarked and electronic synopses received by February 15, 2008.

Do I need to attend the Convention in August to win?

No. Winners will be announced in advance. However, your chamber will not want to miss the opportunity for national recognition among your peers and the chance to learn from other winners during the convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Will I compete against similar size organizations?

No. Judges are instructed to judge each project against the stated objectives of the entry. Your submission will be judged on its own merits, not in comparison to other entries.

What is the "detailed budget" that is required with my entry?

Your budget should include a cost for each process that was necessary to complete your project, i.e. survey cost, printing, distribution, etc.

What should I include in the synopsis?

The synopsis should identify the entry name, category code, chamber name, name of the individual entering the piece, and detailed answers for all five (5) of the judging criteria.

What do I submit for the Measurement judging criteria?

Judges are instructed to evaluate achievement of goals. Word of mouth comments are acceptable, but more favorable consideration will be placed on more scientific measurements.

What is the time frame for “most improved” entries?

The original piece should have been produced before November 1, 2006. The improved version of the piece must have been produced from November 1, 2006 to October 31, 2007.

Who will judge the competition?

All entries will be reviewed by communications experts who are familiar with the general goals, directions, and financial limitations of chambers of commerce and not-for-profit organizations.

What is the entry fee?

The Early Bird entry is $185 for ACCE member chambers. The Early Bird rate for Chairman's Circle chambers $166.50 per entry. For entries postmarked after February 15, 2008, the entry fee is $235 for ACCE member chambers and $211.50 for Chairman's Circle chambers. For more information about your chamber becoming a member of the Chairman's Circle contact Allie Williams at (800) 394-2223, ext. 3544.