SALT LAKE CITY, UT – April 2025 — The first-ever Indie Impact Awards, presented by IBO (Independent Billboard Operators), were held last week during the Spring IBO Conference in Salt Lake City. Hosted by Todd Turner and Richard Molinaro of Up To Something, the event recognized creative out of home ads made by or for independent billboard companies. Over 200 industry professionals were in attendance to celebrate work that raises the standard for what billboards can be.
These ads weren’t created for big brands in top-10 markets. They were built for local businesses in cities where the airport has five gates and zero stress. Great creative can—and should—happen anywhere.
Five campaigns were honored with top awards in categories that reflect what great out of home creative can do when it’s well-crafted, memorable, and unexpected:
Best & Brightest – Melody Roberts of Out of Home Creative for Bushnell University
Extraordinary Extensions – Grace Outdoor Advertising for Kingsley Water Damage Services
Vividly Visual Solution – Link Media Outdoor for Toby Keith Tribute
Symphony of Style – Reagan Outdoor Advertising for Pure Rock Studios
Breaking Convention – Whistler Billboards for Pier King
“These five weren’t just well done—they were influential,” said Richard Molinaro. “This kind of creativity is contagious. And we hope it spreads to every out of home professional who sees it.”
In addition to the winners, 25 campaigns were named Standouts, selected for their inventive ideas, strong execution, and ability to deliver creative work that deserves a closer look.
“There was too much good stuff not to recognize more of it,” said Todd Turner. “The Standouts show how much sharp, surprising work is being done by independent media companies—it’s just not followed by a press release and a LinkedIn victory lap.”
“The Indie Impact Awards are about more than just creative recognition—they’re about fueling pride and progress in this industry,” said Becky Smith, Executive Director of IBO. “Independent billboard companies are serving small businesses and local communities every day—and this show proves they can do it creatively.”
More images and details about all winners and standouts can be viewed at indieimpactawards.com.
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