August 2026 – The El Ojo de Iberoamérica International Festival will introduce two new awards in 2026. For the first time, the festival will recognize the Best Audio & Sound Production Company in Ibero-America and the Independent Network of the Year in Ibero-America. The new awards, part of the festival’s “Recognition: Performance in Ibero-America” program, will be introduced at the 29th edition of the event, taking place November 11–13 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The launch of an award dedicated to audio and sound production companies reflects the growing importance of music, sound design, and sonic identity in advertising creativity. The competition is open to work developed by Latin American companies and professionals and showcased both in Ibero-America and in other markets.
El Ojo Audio & Sound Production
“The creation of this category reinforces the fundamental role of sound design, music, and audio production in building memorable advertising experiences,” says Santiago Keller Sarmiento, president of El Ojo.
The El Ojo Audio & Sound Production award includes five categories: Use of Original Music; Licensed/Adapted Music; Sound Design and Effects; Sonic Branding; and Scriptwriting. In addition to commercials and radio spots, music videos, documentaries, and short films can also compete.
The award considers the work of the entire production chain involved in sound creation, including production companies, musicians, editors, sound technicians, and producers. Entries must have been published or first exhibited between January 1, 2025, and October 12, 2026.
Independent Network of the Year
The other new award for 2026, Independent Network of the Year in Ibero-America, will recognize independent networks operating in the region based on criteria such as consistency, relevance, and creative performance.
“The recognition of Independent Network of the Year in Ibero-America seeks to highlight the growth, consistency, and relevance of independent networks that, from Ibero-America, develop work of excellence and manage to stand out on the international creative stage,” explains Santiago.
Performance of the Work
In both cases, the results will be determined by the performance of entries submitted across El Ojo’s various competitions. Work that reaches the finalist stage or wins awards will earn points for the companies and professionals involved. For the Independent Network ranking, agencies must also indicate during registration whether they operate independently or belong to or are affiliated with a network or holding company.
The new awards join the list of titles presented annually by El Ojo under Performance in Ibero-America, which already includes Best Agency, Best Independent Agency, Best Creative, Best Production Company, Best Director, Best Advertiser, and Best Communications Network.
Entries for El Ojo 2026 remain open until September 30. The next deadline offering special rates is August 14, followed by a first extension through September 15.
El Ojo de Iberoamérica International Festival 2026
Venue: La Rural Convention Center, Palermo neighborhood, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Dates: November 11, 12, and 13, 2026
Entries: Through September 30
Discount deadline: August 14
More information and registration: Link
