The countdown to Cannes has begun. Cannes Lions 2015 is open for entries, with a few tweaks.

The major changes is a new Lion, the Creative Data Lion, following requests received since 2012.

“We’re committed to being at the forefront of the industry, which means reflecting trends and at times spearheading them. The Creative Data Lion is an embodiment of those principles. Insights from data are a powerful driver of creative solutions, so it’s imperative that this be recognised and celebrated at the Festival. But we are the first global creative awards to do so, which means we are also championing the role data can play in creativity,” Philip Thomas, chief executive officer of Cannes Lions, stated.

A committee of data specialists, awarded senior creatives, technologists and the wider marketing community was involved in sculpting the new category.

“Their unique insights and contributions have allowed us to carve out a credible, forward-thinking entry section that meets the needs of a progressive, innovative industry,” Thomas noted.

It includes 11 sub-categories encompassing the most creative uses of data and will highlight work where this has been at the core of an idea.

Other changes this year include:

• The Innovation Lions have been expanded into 2 sub-categories – Innovation Technology and Creative Innovation – to celebrate brand-aligned ideas and standalone technological solutions.
• Creative Effectiveness Lions eligibility has been increased to shortlisted and award winning work from the last three years in response to the fact that the business impact of creativity is long-term and proven over time.
• Product Design Lions eligibility has been extended to work from the last two years.
• Senior industry experts will assist entrants in developing their submissions through the launch of a Creative Effectiveness Advisory Scheme

• Shortlisted and winning entries in Lions Health and Lions Innovation categories will count towards the Cannes Lions Special Awards including Agency of the Year, Independent Agency of the Year, Network of the Year, Regional Network of the Year and Holding Company of the Year

More info on all categories, rules and entry fees, along with tips for creating submissions, here.

Entrants can have their queries about category changes answered and get help with submissions anytime by email.