Now in its 11th year, the Independent Consultants Award (part of the MRS’ Awards programme) allows you showcase your work and demonstrate the brilliance of insight consultants.
The ICG has some of the most talented, versatile and experienced researchers and research micro-businesses in our industry and since 2016 these contributions have been recognised as part of the MRS’ Awards programme.
Following the huge success of previous years, we are excited to announce that entries for this year are now open. Deadline for submissions is Thurs 25th June, 4pm.
This is an Award for YOU. We’re sure that each of you can submit something worthwhile. Please take this opportunity.
Who can enter?
Any independent researchers/micro-business who is either a member of the MRS or the ICG and employs three or fewer staff and not be affiliated with any larger organisation (in other words, applicants must be eligible to join the ICG). Spread the word to anyone outside of the ICG who’s eligible.
If you’ve submitted something previously, you can continue to do so again. There’s no limit to the number of times you can enter, nor is there a time limit on when the research was conducted.
Please contact Anne Rodger for information about ICG membership or find out more about joining MRS here.
What do I need to demonstrate in my application?
This award is designed to recognise the contribution of researchers who choose to work as independent consultants, or as micro-businesses with 3 or fewer employees, rather than in a larger agency environment.
The award will be given to the independent research consultancy giving the best demonstration of their skills and expertise, and the impact their work has, against one or more of the following criteria:
- Excellence when using established methodologies and techniques
- Innovation, originality and relevance when using novel methodologies and techniques
- Strength of contribution made to the success of the client’s business.
We particularly welcome submissions that show the advantages to clients of working with independent researchers or collaborative teams of independent researchers.
Why should I enter?
- PRIDE: Everyone entering can be proud that they’re promoting the enormous value that we bring to our industry and the excellent work that we do.
- KUDOS: For those who are shortlisted/the winner, you can be sure to receive an enormous amount of professionally-generated publicity, kudos and potential business, both in the run up to the winner announcement and afterwards.
- FREE: the award is free to enter
- STRONG CHANCE OF BEING SHORTLISTED: We’ve typically had fewer than 20 submissions each year, and we shortlist 4.
- SUBMISSIONS ARE ONLINE ONLY: You need to write a 1500 word submission about your work, together with a 200 word summary. That’s it. No interview.
“Winning the MRS / ICG Award for Independent Consultants in 2025 has been a significant milestone for our small business.
It has given us a powerful platform to showcase the impact of our work and the value of a closeness-led approach to insight. The award has strengthened our credibility with both existing and prospective clients, opening doors to new conversations and opportunities, and giving new clients confidence in the quality of our work from the outset.
Perhaps most importantly, it has been a welcome boost for our small team, reinforcing that the work we do is valued and makes a positive difference. ” (Hannah Beech, Wren Insight)
Entry format
The judges require a 1,500-word synopsis plus a 200-word summary which specifically highlights why you believe your entry should win this award.
Your synopsis and summary must be submitted via the online form below. Up to three charts/illustrations can be uploaded separately. These do not contribute to the word count but must be specifically referenced in the body of the entry. Additional links to videos, blogs or websites may not be considered by the judges.
You must also upload a high-resolution version of your company logo, or multiple logos if the project is a partnership, in print quality .jpg format (about 300dpi) to be used for publicity purposes if your entry is chosen as a finalist.
The timetable
The timetable for 2026 is as follows:
- 25 June – Deadline for entries
- Early October – Finalists announced
- 7 December – Winners announced at MRS Awards Dinner, London
For any other information please contact ICG committee member responsible for the Award, Annabelle Phillips.
Last year’s Winner (and Highly Commended) here
Whatever your skill set, we hope you’ll find a way to demonstrate your skills.
Application Form Here