Marketers! Now is the time to apply for 2026 Brands That Matter

The deadline to claim the Super Early rate for Fast Company’s Brands That Matter is this Friday. Rates go up March 13 at 11:59 p.m. ET. 

This is the sixth year that Fast Company will be honoring brands that have turned their marketing and branding strategies into cultural relevance for their core audience. It will also mark the third year that Brands That Matter will recognize CMOs of the Year—the marketers who are propelling their organizations to new heights through their ambitious, effective leadership, thoughtful and creative executives who are finding effective ways to keep their brands top of mind for consumers. 

For 2026, there are two exciting new recognitions: Creatives To Watch will spotlight agency or in-house brand creatives—from junior art directors to chief creative officers—who are consistent drivers of standout ideas shaping the future of the industry. Agency/Brand Partnership of the Year will celebrate advertising agency and brand partnerships for effective collaboration that results in meaningful work strengthening brand equity and market presence.

Brands That Matter includes a main list of General Excellence honorees, as well as dozens of brands that excel in ten specific categories—including CMOs of the Year, Creatives to Watch, and Agency/Brand Partnership of the Year. Read our 2025 list to learn more about the companies that were honored. 

Brands That Matter is distinct from other Fast Company recognition programs in that it is solely focused on how brands build cultural relevance—whether that’s pop culture, entertainment, tech, or even mission—in a way that aligns with their overall identity and has a measurable business impact. 

Start your Brands That Matter application here. If you’d like more information about how to apply, see the FAQs. The early application deadline is April 10, and the final deadline to apply is May 15.