Honouring the courage, craft, and independence
shaping journalism around the world.
Each year, independent journalists do the work that changes public conversation, holds power to account, and tells the stories others overlook.
The IPG Awards Luncheon on Sunday, August 30th, 2026,
celebrates that work and the people behind it.
Join us for an afternoon recognizing excellence in investigative reporting, storytelling, and public interest journalism across borders and platforms. This event will take place as part of
The Democracy Fund’s Student Journalism Conference.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Independent journalism
deserves its own stage
Freelancers, small newsrooms, nonprofit reporters, and solo storytellers are often responsible for the most impactful journalism of our time. Yet their work is rarely recognized at the same level as large media institutions.
The IPG Awards were created to change that.
The awards spotlight journalists who work without big budgets or corporate backing, but with clarity, integrity, and grit. The kind of reporting that keeps communities informed and democracy alive.
If you’ve ever filed a story from your kitchen table at midnight or chased a lead because it simply needed to be told, this is for you.
SUBMIT YOUR WORK
CASH PRIZES!
GET TICKETS
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Who should apply or attend
Independent and freelance journalists
Nonprofit and community newsrooms
Documentary filmmakers and audio storytellers
Photojournalists and visual reporters
Editors, publishers, and industry leaders
Supporters of press freedom and public interest reporting
You must be a member of the IPG to submit. Apply Now!
AWARDS CATEGORIES
Recognizing excellence with CASH PRIZES!
$1000 1ST PLACE, $500 2ND PLACE
BEST VIDEO
BEST WRITTEN REPORT
BEST INVESTIGATIVE REPORT
Submission Form
JUDGING CRITERIA
All submissions are reviewed by an independent panel of experienced journalists and editors. Entries are evaluated through a blind review process and scored across multiple dimensions, including reporting quality, storytelling craft, ethical standards, and public impact.
First, second, and third place are awarded in each category based on overall score.
Best Video
Definition
Outstanding journalistic storytelling through video or documentary format, including short films, field reports, or longform documentaries.
Judges look for:
-
Strength and originality of the story
-
Depth and accuracy of reporting
-
Clarity of narrative structure
-
Effective use of visuals, sound, and pacing
-
Ethical sourcing and responsible representation of subjects
-
Impact on public understanding or community awareness
Note
High production value is not required. Strong reporting and storytelling matter more than budget or equipment.
Best Written Report
Definition
Exceptional journalism in written form, including features, profiles, explanatory reporting, or news analysis.
Judges look for:
-
Clarity, focus, and narrative flow
-
Quality of research and fact checking
-
Depth of insight and context
-
Strong sourcing and attribution
-
Writing craft and readability
-
Relevance and value to the intended audience
Note
Both longform and shorter pieces are eligible, provided the work demonstrates journalistic excellence.
Best Investigative Report
Definition
In depth reporting that uncovers new information, exposes wrongdoing, or reveals issues of significant public interest.
Judges look for:
-
Original discovery or enterprise reporting
-
Persistence and rigor in research and verification
-
Use of documents, data, or firsthand sources
-
Fairness and ethical standards
-
Clear evidence supporting claims
-
Measurable or meaningful public impact
Note
Collaborative investigations are welcome. Judges place strong emphasis on accountability and real world consequences.
Scoring Framework
Each submission is scored across:
-
Reporting and research quality
-
Storytelling craft
-
Ethics and accuracy
-
Originality
-
Public or community impact
JUDGES
to be announced
KEY DATES
11
May
Submissions Open
Submissions open to independent journalists worldwide. Must be an IPG Member to submit. Eligible work includes video, written, and investigative reporting published within the past year. All entries are reviewed by a panel of experienced industry professionals.
25
May
Submissions Deadline DEADLINE EXTENDED! June 1st
All submissions must be received by this date. Late entries will not be accepted. Journalists are encouraged to submit early to ensure eligibility and avoid last minute issues. DEADLINE EXTENDED TO JUNE 1ST
26
May 26 – July 5
Judging Period
During this period, submissions are reviewed by the IPG Awards jury. Entries are evaluated based on reporting quality, storytelling craft, ethical standards, originality, and public impact.
10
July
Finalists Announced
Finalists in each category will be publicly announced and notified directly. Selected finalists are invited to attend the IPG Awards Gala and participate in media and promotional opportunities leading up to the event.
30
Aug
IPG AWARDS GALA
Join us for an afternoon celebrating excellence in independent journalism. Winners in each category will be announced live during the luncheon alongside featured speakers, industry networking, and recognition of work that matters.
The IPG is a proud sponsor of TDF’s Student Journalism Conference. The IPG Awards luncheon will be held on Sunday, August 30th, as part of the Conference—a partnered celebration of independent journalism.
If you know someone who might be interested in attending the Student Journalism Conference, or you are a young aspiring journalist yourself, please apply for this all-expense-paid opportunity to learn from leading independent journalists!
VENUE
LOCATION
NOVOTEL NORTH YORK
A welcoming, accessible venue designed for conversation, celebration, and a proper spotlight moment.
SUNDAY, August 30TH @ 12pm ET
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
Email Us
info@independentpressgallery.ca
Follow Us
LETTERMAIL
P.O Box 61046
Toronto RPO Eglinton/Duff
Ontario, M6E 5B2