In a world of sophisticated and skeptical media consumers, third-party validation from trusted sources is more important than ever.

That’s why awards and badges from publishers have become such a valuable resource for brands. But it’s only truly successful when the accolades are legitimately earned, and brands are shown how to capitalize on the opportunities in their wins.

EVG Media has become the ideal partner in that process, connecting us with a wide array of brands and using Reviewed’s Best of Year, Editors’ Choice, and other badges as the vehicle for mutual growth.

Reviewed’s partnership with EVG Media began several years ago. It’s helped extend our reputation as a trusted, reader-focused consumer resource. Now in 2026, EVG Media and Reviewed are looking towards a new chapter of expansion and diversification. 

When Done Right, Licensing Benefits All Parties (Including Customers)

Reviewed has always been in the business of telling people what’s worth their money. We perform hands-on testing and deep research on products and services, publish their findings, and, ideally, save readers from expensive mistakes. That’s the job, and one Reviewed takes seriously.

EVG Media’s role as a leader in the licensing space helps amplify and create value in the credibility that Reviewed has built over the decades.

Allowing brands to use editorial badges and awards has become a strategic priority for Reviewed, because it benefits all parties:

  • Consumers know that badges aren’t awarded unless the editorial experts genuinely like and endorse the product.
  • Brands receive the third-party validation they need.
  • When brands use those badges in their marketing efforts, Reviewed’s own brand name is more widely circulated.

EVG helped build the flywheel and keeps it going. 

The Right Partner for a Relationship-Driven Business

EVG isn’t a licensing clearinghouse. They’re relationship builders, and that distinction matters in a business where brand trust is the whole ballgame.

What EVG brought to Reviewed wasn’t a cold outreach list; it was existing relationships with the brands we cover every day. They understand how brands think and, more importantly, how to translate the value of third-party editorial validation into language that resonates within a brand’s marketing org. 

Just as importantly, EVG has never pushed Reviewed to be something it’s not. 

“When a brand earns recognition from Reviewed, they’re tapping into one of the most trusted names in consumer product journalism. That credibility is currency, and EVG Media helps brands put it to work, bridging the gap between editorial recognition and real marketing impact,” says Brian Kolb, CEO of EVG Media.

Finding the Next Chapter of Growth

The impact of that approach, and of the partnership overall, is showing up in the results. Reviewed is on pace to grow our badging program significantly in the next six to twelve months.

Reviewed and EVG have also launched a new program, the Readers’ Choice Awards, which puts consumers at the forefront of the voting process. The voting period is open for several weeks, during which Reviewed is promoting engagement to its millions of readers via social, newsletter, and front-page traffic. It allows consumers not only to vote but also to give actual testimonials about their experiences as customers of the nominated brands.

Growth like that doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of a partner like EVG Media that shows up with the experience and discipline to identify the right opportunities.