Next PR Earned Spot on Top Agency List

The Colorado Springs-based agency and its CEO were honored at the annual PRNEWS Platinum Awards Gala.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Advertising

Next PR secured a position on the PRNEWS Agency Elite Top 120 list for the seventh consecutive year. CEO Heather Kelly also received a People of the Year award during the event held in New York City.

Why it matters

These industry honors highlight the agency's consistent growth and operational success, including significant headcount expansion and notable media campaign performance.

Next PR reported 38% headcount growth and promoted 30% of its staff. The agency also saw strong campaign results, including an 82% share of voice for HelloPrenup and 10,000 report downloads for Lightcast.

The players

Next PR

Headquartered in Colorado Springs, this public relations firm provides strategic communication services for various clients.

Heather Kelly

As the CEO of Next PR, she provides leadership that has facilitated significant company growth and personnel development.

The details

The agency recently expanded its service offerings to include strategies for improving client visibility in AI-generated answers. It maintains a strong workplace culture, supported by benefits such as a five-day Winter Wellness Week and flexible scheduling, which earned it a fifth consecutive Great Place to Work certification.

October 6, 2026: Agency celebrated honors at the PRNEWS Platinum Awards Gala.

Market Landscape

The agency's consistent placement in top-tier industry rankings reflects a broader trend of mid-sized firms leveraging high-impact campaigns to challenge larger competitors. By integrating AI-driven visibility services, the company is positioning itself to capture market share in an increasingly automated advertising environment.

Clients of the firm may experience expanded service capabilities, specifically regarding search visibility and AI-generated content strategies. The agency's focus on employee retention and internal promotions suggests a stable service experience for existing and future accounts.

The takeaway

Consistent industry recognition often serves as a barometer for agency stability and service quality. Businesses looking for partners may find value in examining firms that maintain multi-year streaks in professional rankings and workplace certifications.