The CAF’s mission is to make Chicago notorious for being the most vibrant, diverse and connected advertising community on the planet. Our committees host events that champion and celebrate the achievements of our industry, and the people behind them.
Brand:
The CAF's brand embodies our city: vibrant, diverse and connected to our communities. Our brand upholds the pillars of what Chicago advertising is all about: bigger, bolder thinking.
Philanthopy:
When it comes to giving back, we give AF. And that's an understatement. From partnering with charitable organizations to collecting donations at every event, we're dedicated to bettering our communities.
Social:
Social media is a crucial extension and touchpoint for any brand. And our social accounts all play an important role in keeping Chicago AF top of mind,
Silver Medal Award
The Silver Medal Award program was created in 1983 to recognize a distinguished member of the Chicago advertising community for their contributions to the advertising profession.
Advertising Woman of the Year
The Advertising Woman of the Year Award (AWOY) has recognized outstanding leadership by a woman in the Chicago marketing and advertising community since 1958.
American Advertising Awards
Recognizing and rewarding the creative spirit of excellence in the art of advertising, the American Advertising Awards is the advertising industry’s largest competition, attracting nearly 35,000 entries every year.
The CAF runs and hosts the local competition, and winners can advance to the regional and national competitions. Each year in the spring, we bring the community together to host a reception and present the winners with their ADDY trophies.
GenNext
CAF’s GenNext is a vibrant and active group offering events catered to early career advertising professionals, such as membership mixers, thought leadership panel discussions and monthly social outings.
Hot Seat Panel Series
Hot Seat is one of CAF’s key thought leadership events. It brings together industry leaders from all sides of the table to inspire, inform and engage Chicago’s advertising and marketing community by discussing hot topics currently facing the industry.
Diversity Thought Leadership Council
The CAF Diversity Thought Leaders’ Council exists to champion diversity and inclusion in Chicago’s marketing and advertising industries. This happens across three critical initiative areas: recruiting to address issues with diverse pipeline; retention – to promote inclusivity; and advancement – to connect and highlight diverse talent.
Career Day
The Chicago Advertising Federation's Career Day attracts over 300 college students, grads and early-career professionals looking to start or advance their career in advertising.
Innovation Showcase
Innovation Showcase is a webinar series providing an exclusive glimpse at the strategies, creative ideas and innovations at the leading edge of the industry.
Market Smarter Webinars*
The Chicago Advertising Federation hosts our insightful Market Smarter webinar series throughout the year, broaching a wide variety of industry subjects. Couldn’t catch the webinar live? Members can view our recordings on our webinar page.
* Member's Only Content