Independent media agencies Awaken and Half Dome have once again made their mark in the Australian Financial Review’s (AFR) Fast 100 List, a testament to their impressive growth and innovative strategies.

Half Dome has also been named on the 2023 AFR Fast 100 List, improving its ranking from 74 in 2022 to 52 this year. New clients for Half Dome in 2023 include Vitasoy and eco-friendly bedding company Ecosa. The agency was recognised for the third year running by AFR BOSS on the Best Places to Work list, placing third in the media and marketing category.

Half Dome launched a new brand and positioning, ‘Half Dome, Whole Potential’, and expanded its leadership team in 2023. Half Dome Managing Director, Tom Frazer, shared his pride in the recognition.

"We are proud to be recognised for the second year in a row on the AFR Fast 100 List. It’s a testament to the success of our business model, and our commitment to constantly evolving," he said. "The launch of our new brand and positioning is a direct reflection of our promise to unlock the ‘whole potential’ of both our clients, and our people.'

These recognitions underscore the resilience and innovative strategies of both Awaken and Half Dome, as they continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of media and marketing."

Awaken, meanwhile, is marking its fourth consecutive year on the list, securing the 79th spot. Awaken has recorded a notable 41% client growth this year, culminating in a staggering 1825% growth over the past five years. New clients in 2023 include Chery Motors Australia and The Kids’ Cancer Project.

Awaken acquired digital marketing agency Agnes Media, expanding its presence in the UK and US markets. This acquisition led to the addition of three new senior staff and several contractors at Awaken. Awaken's founder and CEO, Chris Parker, expressed his delight at the recognition.

"We are absolutely thrilled to be included on the AFR Fast 100 List for the fourth year in a row... This award is recognition of our continued mission to exceed expectations; it’s a phenomenal way to end another significant year for the business," he said.

The AFR Fast 100 List recognises the fastest-growing Australian companies that started trading before July 1, 2017, and recorded at least $5 million of revenue in 2022-2023.