The Shorty Awards (also known as “The Shortys”) honor the most innovative work in digital and social media, by organizations in all sectors and sizes, as well as individual creatives and creators from around the world.

Founded in 2008, the Shortys’ mission is to celebrate, inspire and push the boundaries of excellence in digital storytelling. Entries are judged on the merits of creativity, strategy, and engagement by the Real Time Academy, a body of hand-selected industry experts and leaders.

The public can also weigh in and select their favorite Shorty Awards contenders during Audience Honor Voting. Notable previous winners include brands, agencies, nonprofits, media, and production companies such as Airbnb, Marvel Studios, HBO, HRC, UNICEF, Nestle, BMW, Paramount+, Digitas, Wieden + Kennedy, 72andSunny etc, as well as influential artists, scientists, authors, and activists such as Greta Thunberg, Bill Nye, Michelle Obama, Trevor Noah, Lizzo, Malala Yousafzai, Conan O’Brien, Lady Gaga and more.

Currently, the Shortys have two annual competitions, the flagship Shorty Awards and Shorty Impact Awards dedicated to honoring the best work with a positive social impact.