Cooperative communicators spend the year planning, writing, designing, and delivering messages that matter. Now, the nationwide Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) is inviting professionals to pause, reflect, and celebrate that work by entering the 2026 CCA Communications Contest.
The annual contest is officially live and open to both CCA members and non-members who create, produce, or publish communications on behalf of cooperative organizations. With more than 60 categories available, communicators can submit a single standout project or showcase multiple entries spanning writing, photography, publications, programs, and campaigns.
“This contest is about recognizing the impact cooperative communicators make every day,” said Kelly Jimenez, contest chairperson and CCA board member. “Whether it’s a single project or a portfolio of work, the CCA Communications Contest gives professionals the opportunity to celebrate their creativity, strategy, and results.”
The 2026 contest features several new and updated categories designed to showcase creative range and versatility. A new programs and projects portfolio allows communicators to bundle multiple samples of promotional work into one entry, while campaign categories have been streamlined by combining long- and short-term campaigns. The direct-mail category continues to accept both print and electronic formats, including e-mail campaigns. Writing and photography portfolios remain available, with top entries automatically advancing for best-of-show consideration.
Entering the contest begins with reviewing the official contest brochure for category details, submission guidelines, and fees. Communicators then collect their entries and submit them through CCA’s convenient online communications-contest portal by logging in or creating an account, completing all required questions, and uploading materials.
“Every year, the communications contest highlights the incredible talent within our profession,” Jimenez said. “It’s a chance to reflect on the year, learn from one another, and elevate cooperative communications as a whole.”
Contest details, the full brochure, and registration can all be accessed at www.communicators.coop.
CCA exists to improve the effectiveness of all cooperative communicators; advance professional standards; and exchange facts, research, techniques, and opinions among cooperative communicators. Board members for the 2025-2026 business year, and their home cooperatives: Dori Lichty, president, CentralStar Cooperative, Waupun, Wis.; Kelly Jimenez, vice president, Carroll EMC, Carrollton, Ga.; Adam Buckallew, secretary-treasurer, MFA Oil Company, Columbia, Mo.; Cliff Dolbeare, GROWMARK, Inc., Bloomington, Ill.; Jennie Lacey, Roberta, Ga.; Hayley Leatherwood, Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives, Oklahoma City, Okla.; Mallory Shoemaker, Central Valley Ag Cooperative, Beloit, Kan; Casey Hollins, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, Fredericksburg, Va.; and Randy Hill, Planters EMC, Millen, Ga. Visit www.communicators.coop for more information.
