Beyond Bragging Rights: 5 Unexpected Benefits of Entering the 2025 HNA Awards
When you think about entering the HNA Awards, it’s easy to focus on the obvious perk of recognition. But while bragging rights are great (and well deserved for our winners!), many past participants say the real value of submitting goes far deeper.
Here are five benefits of entering the 2025 HNA Awards that make it worth your time even before the winners are announced:
1. You Build Your Brand—Just by Entering
Even if you don’t walk away with the top prize, submitting your project signals to clients, peers, and industry leaders that you take pride in your work and hold it to the highest standards. Participating in a respected industry competition builds industry awareness, sets your company apart and shows that you’re serious about craftsmanship and professionalism.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate name recognition. The more consistently your name appears in these circles, the more likely people will remember it when opportunity knocks.
2. You Create a Portfolio Piece That Works Hard for You
The HNA Awards submission process encourages you to gather great photos, reflect on the project’s design and installation details, and tell a compelling story. That means you walk away with an impressive case study or marketing asset you can use well beyond the awards.
Pro Tip: Your completed entry can easily be adapted for your website, social media channels, client presentations, or even press pitches.
3. You Gain Clarity on What Sets You Apart
Taking time to prepare a thoughtful submission often reveals more than just the steps of a project—it helps clarify your team’s strengths, unique approach, and problem-solving capabilities. That’s valuable intel for growing your business and refining your messaging!
Pro Tip: Use this awards submission process to get a clearer sense of the kinds of work you want to pursue more of in the future.
4. You Inspire (and Get Inspired by) Your Peers
Hardscaping is an ever-evolving industry filled with innovation and unique ideas underscored by technical expertise and best practices. By showcasing your work, you contribute to the larger conversation in the industry. And when the winners are announced, you’ll get to see what’s pushing the field forward in terms of design, materials, and innovation.
Pro Tip: This is a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself.
5. You Strengthen Your Team’s Morale and Pride
Few things feel better than seeing your team’s work recognized on a national stage. But just submitting a project can energize your crew, validate their effort, and give everyone a renewed sense of purpose and pride in what they do every day.
Pro Tip: Involve your team in the submission process. Having them select photos or write about their role in the project can help you tell the most complete story for the judges. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate your shared success!
The 2025 HNA Awards are open for submissions through August 13.
Submit your project (or projects!) today.