Prolific North can today reveal the return of the popular Independent Agencies to Watch list and event for 2026.
Sponsored by national law firm Glaisyers ETL and agency management platform Synergist, it marks the fourth edition of this brilliant initiative to celebrate ambitious rising Northern independent agencies who are creating the biggest waves as they grow, be that financially, creatively or as an employer
And this year, we’ll be gearing up to celebrate and recognise a fresh wave of some of those exciting indie agencies that should be on everyone’s radar with an accompanying roundtable event, which will feature the companies on the list, set to be held in Manchester on 10 September 2026.
Jay Neale, CEO at Synergist, said: “I’ve spent twenty years working with agencies, and the Northern ones have always had something different. A grit and a graft that’s hard to find elsewhere. Down to earth, honest, focused on getting the work done and done well. That’s why the ones coming through are worth watching.
“At Synergist we work with agencies like these every day. We help them put the right foundations in early, so ambition doesn’t outrun the business behind it. The roundtable is the part I’m most looking forward to. Founders rarely get the space to step back and compare notes on what’s actually working as they scale.”
Steve Kuncewicz, Partner – Head of Creative, Digital & Media at Glaisyers, added: “Glaisyers ETL’s Creative, Digital & Media Team acts for creative businesses of all shapes and sizes, but I personally tend to have the most fun and do the most good when we’re working with independent agencies. To see them flourish and deliver great work to the same level as the Holding Groups is a huge and singular privilege, and we can’t wait to see the list when published and watch its members continue to smash it out of the park.”
How to nominate an agency or submit your company info
The editorial team at Prolific North will be doing its own research, alongside trusted, knowledgeable and independent observers of the Northern agency sector to compile this list.
But we are also seeking nominations from agencies – or their representatives – who wish to ensure they are considered for inclusion in the final list.
It is free to nominate an agency but to be eligible, agencies must: be headquartered in the North of England; new, operating for no more than five years; and be able to demonstrate early evidence of growth, success and impact.
Whether your agency has a big focus on sustainability and diversity, or soaring growth through revenue, staff or clients – we want to hear from you.
The list is now open for nominations – simply submit your agency details by completing the submission form here.
The deadline for submissions is 24 July – please submit as early as you can, as any submissions received after this date will not be considered! Good luck!
