The American Graphic Design Awards (AGDA), presented annually by Graphic Design USA (GDUSA), stands as one of the most respected and long-running design competitions in the United States. Now in its 62nd year, the AGDA celebrates excellence, creativity, and innovation across the full spectrum of visual communications. It recognizes outstanding work in branding, print design, packaging, web and app design, advertising, corporate identity, motion graphics, environmental graphics, social media campaigns, and emerging digital media. Each year, thousands of designers, agencies, in-house teams, and students participate, making the competition a benchmark of professional achievement within the creative industry.
As a national design competition, the American Graphic Design Awards highlight the power of design to shape brands, influence audiences, and drive business success. Entries are judged on originality, visual impact, technical execution, and effectiveness of communication. This broad approach ensures that both established professionals and rising talents have the opportunity to be recognized for their work, regardless of project size or budget. The competition not only celebrates beautiful aesthetics but also honors strategic thinking, storytelling, and the designer’s role in advancing meaningful communication.
The AGDA has built a reputation as a trusted platform for creative recognition and exposure. Winning entries are published in GDUSA’s prestigious annual design issue and showcased online, offering recipients valuable national visibility among peers, potential clients, and employers. For over six decades, the American Graphic Design Awards have served as a testament to the evolving role of design in culture and commerce, spotlighting the individuals and teams who elevate the craft of communication design through skill, imagination, and innovation.
Entry fee: $120 for one entry, with discounted bundle rates up to $400 for 10–20 entries; additional entries beyond 20 cost $20 each.
Eligibility
Entries may be submitted worldwide by any company, agency or individual involved in creation/production/distribution of the work, including students, and must have been created or published between January 1, 2024 and December 31, 2025.
Prize
Winners gain national recognition: selected work will be featured in GDUSA’s national magazine and online showcase, providing visibility, prestige and portfolio value for the creators whose work is considered among the best in graphic design across diverse media.
