HR, marketing, and communication professionals gathered for a full day of knowledge sharing at the Eiffel Art Studios on April 16, 2026, at the 5th Connect Conference. The awards ceremony was once again a highlight, as we announced the winners of the Blue Colibri - Connect Awards. Submissions were evaluated across 6+1 categories, and due to a record number of high-quality entries, shortlisted projects were also recognized for the first time.
Three main criteria guided the evaluation: the impact on the organization, the level of innovation, and how inspiring and replicable the solution could be for others. Each entry was also assessed based on the objectives of its category.
This award recognizes solutions that combine thoughtful structure, aesthetic design, and user-friendly content to support everyday work while promoting digital well-being.
Winner: CIB Bank – Bringing the new CIB reward system to life
CIB Bank reimagined an existing complex system in a digital format. The app-integrated reward system now features a unified visual identity, continuous communication, and a knowledge base, making it more informative and easier to use.
This category celebrates campaigns where the launch of an app or feature becomes a real experience.
Winner: Richter Gedeon - App launch campaign built around RinGO
In a large organization of over 6,000 employees, Richter introduced the platform using character-based storytelling. A “digital employee,” RinGO, became the face of the campaign, supported by teaser content and multi-phase communication that drove engagement and adoption.
Awarded to solutions that successfully engage non-desk employees.
Winner: Hunland Group - Building a digital bridge to frontline employees
Hunland created a platform delivering daily value for frontline workers. Their “This is how we work” initiative and video series showcased everyday work life, while challenges like #sportminutes and feedback tools created real dialogue.
Recognizing initiatives that drive real organizational change.
Winner: Mapei - Small steps, real change
The campaign focused on mental and physical well-being. The MapeMind program supported mental health, while gamified challenges encouraged activity. A combination of online and offline elements ensured long-term impact.
Celebrating the power of storytelling in internal communication.
Winner: V-Híd Group - “We don’t just build it, we show it”
V-Híd created a continuous, story-driven communication system showcasing people and processes behind projects through interviews and visual content. The result: over 80% usage rate and a strong shared narrative.
Recognizing outstanding cross-functional collaboration between departments.
Winner: Ghibli - NIS2 e-learning and information security program
Responding to new EU regulations, Ghibli implemented a complex e-learning system with strong collaboration between legal, IT, and HR teams, resulting in widespread adoption and compliance.
Automatically awarded based on user activity across different company sizes.
Winners:
The key takeaway from this year’s entries is clear: internal communication is no longer just a support function, it is a business tool. The most successful solutions address real challenges, become part of daily operations, and deliver measurable impact.
Congratulations to all winners and participants, and thank you for the inspiring projects!
