MRS/ICG Award

The Award for Independent Consultants: Recognising Excellence In Independent Research

The ICG Award for Independent Consultants, presented in partnership with the Market Research Society (MRS), celebrates the outstanding work of independent professionals in the research and insights industry. It champions the creativity, rigour, and impact that independent researchers and micro‑businesses bring to clients and the wider research community.

About The Award

Launched in 2016, the ICG Award is open to all independent researchers and micro‑businesses who:

  • Are members of either the ICG or the MRS
  • Employ three or fewer full‑time staff
  • Meet eligibility criteria for ICG membership

If you know someone outside the ICG who is eligible, encourage them to enter — they can join the MRS and/or the ICG once they have submitted.

There is no limit to the number of times you can enter, and no restriction on when the research was conducted. The Award recognises excellence wherever and whenever it occurs.

It is also FREE to enter.

What The Award Recognises

The judging panel looks for projects that demonstrate:

  • Innovation in approach or methodology
  • Impact on client decisions, strategy, or outcomes
  • Excellence in research design, execution, and delivery
  • Independence in spirit, practice, and contribution

These criteria reflect the ingenuity and high standards that independent consultants bring to every brief.

Why Enter

The Award exists to amplify the visibility and influence of independent insight specialists.

By entering, you can:

  • Gain industry‑wide recognition for your work
  • Raise your profile among clients, partners, and peers
  • Celebrate your achievements as an independent professional
  • Be featured across ICG and MRS communications, events, and channels
  • Strengthen your consultancy’s credibility when pitching for new work

Whether you’re a solo practitioner or a small research micro‑business, this is your platform to shine.

How To Enter

Entries typically open in the summer and close in early autumn.

To submit your entry, you will need:

  • A project summary (up to 1,000 words)
  • Evidence of impact, such as client feedback, business results, or implementation outcomes
  • Optional supporting materials — visuals, extracts, reports, or other artefacts
  • A link to submit your entry will appear when entries open
DOWNLOAD ENTRY GUIDELINES

Past Winners & Finalists

From breakthrough brand studies to ground‑breaking social research, the Award has recognised some of the most influential work conducted by independents.

Each year’s finalists highlight:

  • Methodological innovation
  • Deep human understanding
  • Transformative client impact
  • The unique strengths independents bring
VIEW PAST WINNERS

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Under The Umbrella Of The MRS Awards Programme

The ICG Award is proudly supported by the Market Research Society, reinforcing a shared commitment to:

  • Research excellence
  • Ethical practice
  • Innovation in methods and thinking
  • Championing the role of independent insight professionals.

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