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PMJA's Annual Awards Competition recognizes the very best in public media work done by local outlets. Winners are celebrated at PMJA's annual conference, connecting you with peers who share your passion for exceptional journalism.

Key dates

Entries open: December 15, 2026

Enter at awards.pmja.org.

Early deadline: February 19, 2027

Enter by this date and skip the $10 late fee.

Final deadline: March 5, 2027

The entry system closes at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Eligible work

Work that first aired or was published in 2026.

Why submit your work?

For over 30 years, PMJA's Annual Awards have honored public media journalists whose work sets the standard for local public media. Here's what you get out of entering:

Amplify your team's work

Winners and finalists are featured on PMJA's website, press releases, and social media.

Boost morale and recruitment

Showing your team their work earns national recognition matters. Valued journalists stay.

Build a stronger portfolio

Document your impact, reflect on your projects, and demonstrate your value to colleagues and community.

The recognition doesn't stop at the trophy.

Connect with the PMJA community

Keep your membership current and join regular meetups to learn alongside colleagues who understand what you're navigating.

Become a future judge

Finalists and winners are often recruited to judge future competitions, helping shape what public media recognition looks like.

💡 Pro tip: Check your membership status before you enter so you get the member rate, and submit by February 19 to skip the late fee.

🏆 Congratulations to the 2026 winners!

The 2026 honorees represent the best of local public media journalism. See who took home recognition at the 2026 PMJA Annual Awards.

See the 2026 Winners