2026 Call for Entries
The National Media Awards Foundation is pleased to announce that submissions are now open for the 49th annual National Magazine Awards. The 2026 NMAs feature 28 categories, along with two special awards, and additional categories aligned with our cross-program initiative with the Digital Publishing Awards.
New this year: two branded-content categories join the program — Best Branded Content Collaboration, recognizing collaborative storytelling created with a brand, agency, or client, and Best Integrated Branded Campaign, celebrating multi-platform branded initiatives spanning at least two channels within a magazine’s ecosystem. Full category details and submission requirements are available on the Categories page.
Submissions are open to Canadian print and digital magazines, and to Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents (landed immigrants) whose work appeared in eligible publications during the 2025 calendar year.
Deadlines
- Early Bird Deadline: January 9, 2026
- Final Submission Deadline: January 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST
How to Submit
- Register online at NMAF Submissions Portal
- Review the Rules to confirm eligibility
- Review the Categories and Submission Requirements, and complete the submission form(s)
- Pay the required entry fees
Small Magazine Rebate
Magazines with annual revenue of $200,000 or less may be eligible for the Small Magazine Rebate, allowing publications to submit two entries for the price of one. The rebate applies to the first two entries.
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 $125 (early-bird rate: $115)
Digital Publishing Awards and National Magazine Awards: B2B
If your content does not fit a National Magazine Awards category, consider submitting to the Digital Publishing Awards, which recognize digital storytelling across numerous formats.
For trade, professional, or alumni-association publications, explore the National Magazine Awards: B2B, which recognize excellence across 24 specialized categories.
Acknowledgements
The National Media Awards Foundation gratefully acknowledges the support of the Government of Canada, the Ontario Arts Council, 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.
🔗 Explore J-Launchpad
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!