The awards are named for the Greek Muse of history Clio and were first given in 1959. They were expanded to include international work in 1965.

Clio is one of the largest awards programs of its kind. The judges are instructed to value ideas more highly than mere execution as they look at all entries submitted and select a shortlist. From that, they vote to award the very best work with statues—bronze, silver or gold. The Clio judging process allows for more than one Gold, Silver or Bronze winner within individual mediums (TV, Print, etc.). If judges determine a Gold winner is “best-of-the-best” in the medium, the Grand Clio may be given to that entry. Only 1% of all entries receive awards, which are given at two separate award shows during a four day Clio Festival in South Beach, Miami, Florida in May.