• Each entry must consist of commercially available, result-oriented technology.
• All entries will be judged based only on the information provided.
• Supporting materials substantiating each entry are required.
• A detailed statement or an account that accurately provides a thorough representation of the product submitted is required.
• At least one user company must submit a letter including a written declaration certifying the technology’s character and performance, along with the value of the technology to their manufacturing process (e.g., functionality, return on investment, increases in productivity).
• A key contact individual is required on each entry to answer any follow-up questions.
• All submissions will be considered a disclosure of technology.

Entries are judged by the FTA Technical Innovation Award Committee and scored in six specific areas. Judges place each entry into one of three categories:

• Prepress – Graphics: Prepress workflow solutions including file preparation, desktop applications, plate imaging, and plating technologies.
• Prepress – Pressroom: Devices and products used in the pressroom prior to print production.
• Heavy Converting Equipment: Presses and press components.

Written statements included with an entry should not exceed 250 words. Materials to be submitted with each entry and reviewed by judges include:

1. Description of Technology:
   • The technology must be described clearly and accurately to ensure judges’ complete understanding.
   • Include a detailed statement describing the technology, its users, usage, benefits, and expected outcomes.
2. Technical Achievement
   • Evaluated based on the innovative technology produced by your company that advances the flexographic industry.
   • What did you achieve?
   • How did you achieve it?
   • Why do you believe this is an achievement?
3. Technical Impact on the Industry’s Future
   • Evaluated based on your company’s projections of the product’s impact over the next five to ten years.
4. Supporting Material Required
   • Product marketing literature in PDF format
   • User manual in PDF format
   • Demonstration video or equivalent in digital format and/or photos of end-use results (e.g., samples, product)
5. User Testimonials
   • At least one user company must submit a written declaration certifying the technology’s character and performance, including its value to their manufacturing process (e.g., functionality, ROI, productivity gains).
6. Presentation of Submission
   • All submissions will be evaluated on the completeness of the application and electronic portfolio.
   • Incomplete electronic portfolios may disqualify your submission.