INM Wins Two Gold PPAI Pyramid Awards
We’re proud to share that INM received two Gold PPAI Pyramid Awards, recognizing client programs that delivered real impact, not just nice-looking merch.
The wins highlight two very different projects, one centered on athlete recognition and the other on patient care. What they have in common is thoughtful strategy, strong execution, and promotional products that actually did their job.
Why the PPAI Pyramid Awards Matter
The PPAI Pyramid Awards are among the highest honors in the promotional products industry. Presented annually by Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), the awards recognize programs that demonstrate creativity, strategic thinking, and measurable results.
These aren’t participation trophies. Entries are judged by industry experts and evaluated on strategy, execution, and effectiveness. In short, the focus is on work that solves real problems and connects with real people.
Earning Gold means these programs stood out among submissions from across the industry, which makes the recognition meaningful for both our team and our clients.
Gold Winner: The American Conference Gifting Suite
Client Programs – Employee Incentive & Recognition
The American Conference Gifting Suite was designed to recognize collegiate athletes competing in the 2025 men’s and women’s basketball championship tournaments. The goal was simple: make recognition feel personal, premium, and worthy of the effort these athletes put in all season.
Instead of defaulting to a one-size-fits-all item, the program delivered a hybrid experience that let each athlete choose a gift they actually wanted. Athletes could make their selection online ahead of the tournament or visit the on-site gifting suite during championship week to see options in person. Either way, the process was fast, seamless, and built around their schedules, not ours.
The product mix featured must-have retail brands like Bose, The North Face, and Carhartt. From speakers and weighted blankets to massagers, an Atari Gamestation, and premium apparel, every option was selected with one question in mind: would an athlete genuinely be excited to receive this? The Carhartt jacket didn’t need much convincing. It quickly became a favorite, which confirmed what we already knew about knowing your audience.
The response made it clear the approach worked. The program achieved a 95 percent redemption rate, and feedback from both athletes and conference leadership was overwhelmingly positive. As Brianna Gladney, Director of Basketball Operations, shared, “Not only did the on-site gift suite exceed our expectations, but it also enhanced the student-athlete experience by bringing a unique aspect they have not had before.”
It was recognition done right. No fluff, no filler, just a well-executed experience that celebrated the people it was meant for.
Gold Winner: UT Southwestern Patient Experience Week
Client Programs – Social Responsibility
The UT Southwestern Patient Experience Week program was built around a simple but important goal: create moments of comfort and connection for patients receiving care, while recognizing the compassionate teams who support them every day.
The program took place across four Simmons Cancer Center locations in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and reached more than 1,100 patients. Through pop-up events, thoughtful giveaways, and visits from therapy dog Tia, the initiative was designed to bring a little lightness and human connection into an otherwise difficult time.
Every product was chosen intentionally. Items like insulated camp cups, journals, and stress relievers were selected because they were useful, comforting, and easy to keep close. Small things, yes, but small things matter when you’re spending long hours in a treatment chair.
The impact was immediate and meaningful. Patients and staff responded positively, and the program reinforced UT Southwestern’s commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. As Alexandra Huffman, LCSW, OSW-C, CST, Director of Supportive Care and Integrative Oncology, shared, “Being able to provide quality tokens of appreciation for everyone elevates the week’s campaign and re-energizes the staff who are providing the highest level of care to our patients. INM’s partnership over the years has been essential in creating an experiential week, and we look forward to continuing to work together.”
This wasn’t about branding for branding’s sake. It was about showing up with care, and doing it thoughtfully.
What This Recognition Represents
Winning two Gold PPAI Pyramid Awards isn’t about checking a box or adding a logo to the website. It’s a reflection of the kind of work we aim to do every day.
Work that listens before it designs.
Recognition that feels personal, not performative.
Programs built to support real people and real goals.
We’re grateful to our clients who trusted us with these programs and proud of the teams who brought them to life. This is the kind of work we’re always aiming for, award or not.
