2026 Call for Entries
The National Media Awards Foundation is pleased to announce that submissions are now open for the 2026 Digital Publishing Awards. Canadian digital publishers—including those that support established brands across consumer and B2B magazines, newspapers, broadcast, and other journalism, as well as digital-only publications—are eligible to participate. Submissions are accepted in English, French, or both.
The 2026 Digital Publishing Awards feature 28 categories, including several updates for this year’s program.
New categories include:
- Investigative Journalism, recognizing original, in-depth reporting of public significance
- Editorial Achievement of the Year, honouring outstanding behind-the-scenes editorial leadership in digital publishing
In addition, the Emerging Excellence award now includes updated eligibility criteria: the award is open to individuals with a maximum of three years of professional experience, and nominations must be submitted by one or more colleagues or mentors.
Individual creator awards include a $500 cash prize for Gold winners.
Deadlines
- Early Bird Deadline: January 16, 2026
- Final Submission Deadline: January 23, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET
How to Submit
- Register online at NMAF Submissions Portal
- Review the Rules
- Rview the Categories and Submission Requirements and complete the submission form(s)
- Pay the required entry fees
Freelancer Support Fund
Independent writers, illustrators, photographers, and art directors are encouraged to apply for the Freelancer Support Fund, which offers discounted entry fees:
- One entry for $90 (early-bird rate: $75)
- Two entries for $130 (early-bird rate: $115)
Acknowledgements
The National Media Awards Foundation gratefully acknowledges the support of the Government of Canada and Ontario Creates.
Introducing J-Launchpad: Building Careers in Journalism and Media
The National Media Awards Foundation is proud to launch J-Launchpad, a career hub for the next generation of Canadian media professionals.
J-Launchpad brings together internships that provide hands-on experience, mentorship opportunities (details coming in 2026), and job listings curated from across the industry and updated regularly. It also includes the Editorial Skills Lab, offering practical training to help emerging professionals strengthen their editing and storytelling skills.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take the next step, J-Launchpad is designed to help you gain experience, build connections, and find meaningful work in Canadian journalism and media.
Support Us
As a charitable organization, the National Media Awards Foundation is dedicated to acknowledging, fostering, and championing excellence in Canadian print and digital content creation. The Foundation produces three distinct, bilingual award programs: the National Magazine Awards, the Digital Publishing Awards, and the National Magazine Awards: B2B.
You can help support our important work by donating today through Canada Helps. Donations have a direct impact on our ability to serve the magazine publishing sector through award programs and professional development activities. You’ll receive a tax receipt for any donation of $25 or more. Thank you for your support!