Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 Open for Entries, Now Featuring Three Award Categories

The Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 are now accepting submissions. Journalists across Canada have until January 15, 2026 to enter their work. The awards honor investigative journalism that fights for social and economic justice.This prestigious prize recognizes reporting that drives real policy change. Starting this cycle, the foundation has significantly expanded its recognition. Instead of one prize, three distinct categories will now be awarded.

Expanded Format Recognizes Diverse Journalism Platforms

The new structure aims to celebrate excellence across more mediums. Judges will now select winners in three separate categories. These are print or digital, broadcast, and local community news.The broadcast category includes television, radio, and podcast journalism. The local category accepts work in any format. This change ensures vital reporting from all community levels gets its due recognition.

A Celebration of Impactful Canadian Journalism

Winning work must have been published or aired in 2025. It must also be widely accessible to a Canadian audience. The core mission remains highlighting stories that serve the common good.The prizes judge courage, resourcefulness, and storytelling skill. Most importantly, they measure the real-world impact of the coverage. The goal is to spotlight journalism that makes a tangible difference.The selected winners will be honored at a ceremony in Toronto. The event is scheduled for April 9, 2026. Winners will receive an honorarium and a certificate for their achievement.

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The Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 spotlight the crucial role of investigative journalism in a healthy democracy. This expanded award format promises to elevate more voices and stories that demand to be heard.

Thought you’d like to know

How do I apply for the Canadian Hillman Prizes?

Applications are submitted online through the official portal. There is no fee to enter, and there is no limit on submissions per journalist or outlet. The deadline for all entries is January 15, 2026.

What kind of journalism is eligible?

Any investigative work published or broadcast in Canada during 2025 is eligible. It must expose social or economic injustice and should have led to, or have the potential to lead to, meaningful public policy change.

What are the three new prize categories?

The prizes will now be awarded separately for Print/Digital, Broadcast (TV, radio, podcast), and Local/Community News. This change, effective from the 2024 cycle, aims to recognize a wider range of journalistic work.

Is self-published work accepted?

No, self-published work is not eligible for submission. Entries must have been published by a recognized outlet or organization that is widely accessible to a Canadian audience.

What do winners receive?

Winners are awarded an honorarium and a certificate. They are honored at a dedicated awards ceremony, which for the 2026 prizes will be held in Toronto on April 9, 2026.