UWG INC., the longest-standing multicultural advertising and marketing agency in the United States, has been named to Ad Age’s A-List as 2026 Multicultural Agency of the Year, recognizing the agency’s leadership and impact across the advertising industry. This marks the first time UWG INC. has received the honor.

“This recognition belongs to every person at this agency and to every client who has trusted us with their brand. We have always believed that multicultural communities do not exist at the margins of culture, they shape it. UWG stands as champions to support, accelerate and amplify the genius that is uncommon,” said Monique Nelson, Executive Chair of UWG INC.

Founded in 1969 by advertising pioneer Byron Lewis, UWG INC. helped establish the foundation for multicultural marketing in the United States. In 2012, Monique Nelson became majority owner of the agency, ushering in a new era of growth that has expanded UWG’s global footprint and strengthened its focus on cultural intelligence.

The recognition comes at a pivotal moment for the industry. As multicultural marketing faced renewed scrutiny and budget pressure in 2025, UWG INC. leaned further into its belief that cultural intelligence is essential to modern brand growth.

Under Nelson’s leadership, UWG INC. has expanded its international presence, with operations now active across North America and Africa, reflecting the agency’s belief that multicultural communities are not an audience segment, but a driving force shaping culture and commerce.