Deadline: January 11, 2026
The Sigma Awards 2026 for Data Journalism are now open for entries, recognizing and celebrating the best data journalism projects from across the world. Organized by the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), the awards aim to honor groundbreaking work that uses data to tell impactful stories and drive public understanding.
About the Sigma Awards 2026 for Data Journalism
The Sigma Awards 2026 for Data Journalism celebrate excellence in the use of data to produce high-quality, evidence-driven storytelling. The awards spotlight the most innovative and inspiring data journalism projects published globally within the year.
The initiative is hosted by the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), which officially took over the Sigma Awards in 2025. GIJN continues the mission of fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence in data-driven journalism.
Eligibility Criteria
The competition is open to journalists, newsrooms, and independent teams from all around the world. Both individuals and organizations—whether large or small—can submit their projects.
To be eligible:
- Entries must be data journalism projects published between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025.
- Submissions can come from individuals, small teams, or larger media organizations.
- Entries must demonstrate strong use of data, creativity in storytelling, and impact.
- There are no specific categories for entries; all submissions compete together in a single pool.
This open approach ensures that everyone—from freelance journalists to major newsroom teams—has an equal opportunity to showcase their work.
Awards and Prizes
The total prize pool for the Sigma Awards 2026 stands at US $5,000, which will be distributed among the winners based on the jury’s decision.
Beyond the financial reward, winners and finalists gain:
- Global recognition for their data-driven storytelling.
- Access to the international Sigma Awards portfolio, showcasing their work to a worldwide audience.
- Networking opportunities within the global community of data journalists.
Application Deadline
All submissions for the Sigma Awards 2026 for Data Journalism must be received on or before January 11, 2026. Late entries will not be considered.
Why Journalists from Africa (Including Nigeria) Should Apply
The Sigma Awards are global, with no regional limitations. This means journalists and media organizations from Africa—particularly those in Nigeria—are strongly encouraged to apply.
African journalists have produced impactful data-driven projects addressing issues such as governance, climate change, public health, and education. The Sigma Awards 2026 offer a chance to showcase such work on a global stage, gain visibility, and connect with a global network of professionals dedicated to advancing journalism through data.
Even if you don’t win, your work will still be listed in the Sigma Awards portfolio, offering invaluable exposure and the opportunity to learn from the world’s best data journalism projects.
How to Apply
To participate in the Sigma Awards 2026:
- Review your data journalism projects published in 2025.
- Ensure they meet the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare a short description of your project and evidence of publication.
- Submit your entry online before January 11, 2026.
This is an excellent opportunity to gain international recognition, network with fellow journalists, and celebrate the power of data in storytelling.
Application Links:
👉 Click here to Apply
👉 Read more about the Programme
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