Custom Content Development

What is Custom Content Development?

Custom content development involves the creation of learning experiences tailored to the unique needs, goals and culture of an organization. These programs are built to reflect company processes, brand identity and learner context, from concept and design through to the finished product. Custom content solutions may be delivered through instructor-led training, digital learning, simulations or blended approaches designed to: 

• Address specific learning objectives and performance goals 

• Reflect organizational culture, processes and terminology 

• Enhance learner engagement through personalized, relevant content 

Who Should Apply?

Custom content development providers that design and build tailored learning solutions for a variety of client needs, including:

• Content conversion and modernization 

• Diagnostic and needs assessments 

• Instructional design and storyboarding 

• Gamification and immersive learning 

• Localization, translation and accessibility 

Solutions can be delivered through in-person or virtual instructor-led training, self-paced eLearning, simulations, or AR/VR experiences. Providers of all sizes are encouraged to apply. 

General Things to Gather Before Applying

• Development Capabilities: Content types your team produces (eLearning, ILT, AR/VR, etc.).

• Design Process: Your approach to needs assessment, storyboarding and development.

• Localization and Accessibility: How you ensure inclusivity and reach.

• Client Examples: Representative projects that show customization and scale. 

Selection Criteria

• Scope of quality of custom content development services
• Market presence, brand visibility, innovation and impact
• Strength of client portfolio and customer relationships
• Business performance and growth trajectory

Benefits of Being Selected

• Feature placement on TrainingIndustry.com, visited by hundreds of thousands of L&D professionals annually 

• Inclusion in a press release, social media announcements and email to 255,000+ subscribers 

• A digital badge to display on websites, proposals and promotional materials 

• Opportunity to order a physical award trophy 

• Inclusion in the annual Corporate Training Landscape graphic 

• Eligibility for case study features, thought leadership opportunities and event recognition 

• Referral opportunities when Training Industry receives RFPs that fit your offerings 

Application Information

• The 2026 Top Custom Content Development Companies Application opens Feb. 4, 2026. 

• The deadline to submit an entry for this application is Feb. 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST (New York) 

• The 2026 Top 20 and Watch List Custom Content Development Companies will be officially announced March 19, 2026 on our website and across our media platforms. 

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For questions, contact us at top20@trainingindustry.com.