Deadline: January 15, 2026
The Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 are now open for submissions! These prestigious awards recognize excellence in journalism that serves the common good — with a special focus on investigative reporting that exposes social or economic injustices and inspires meaningful public or policy change.
Since its launch in Canada in 2011, the Hillman Prize has been one of the nation’s most respected honors in journalism, highlighting stories that hold power to account and give voice to the voiceless. Originally founded in the United States in 1950, the Sidney Hillman Foundation continues to honor journalists who embody integrity, public interest, and social responsibility through impactful storytelling.
About the Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026
The Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 celebrate outstanding investigative and public interest journalism that drives real-world change. The competition is open to all forms of journalism published or broadcast in Canada in 2025 and accessible to Canadian audiences.
These prizes recognize journalists and media organizations that shine a light on social issues, injustice, or inequities, using their platforms to create awareness and influence positive transformation in society.
Categories
For the 2026 edition, submissions are invited across three key categories:
- Print / Digital Journalism – Articles or investigative series published in newspapers, magazines, or online outlets.
- Broadcast (TV, Radio, or Podcast) – Audio-visual or audio storytelling that demonstrates investigative depth or strong social impact.
- Local / Community News – Journalism produced for regional or community-based audiences, regardless of medium or format.
Since 2024, the Hillman Foundation has expanded the Canadian Hillman Prizes to recognize three separate winners, one in each category, rather than a single overall winner. This ensures broader recognition of outstanding work across diverse media platforms.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026, entries must meet the following criteria:
- Work must have been published or broadcast in Canada in 2025.
- Content should be widely accessible to a Canadian audience.
- Self-published materials are not eligible.
- Submissions can be made by individual journalists, outlets, or third parties.
- There is no entry fee, and there is no limit on the number of entries submitted by a journalist or media organization.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: January 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time)
- Award Ceremony: April 9, 2026, in Toronto
Awards and Recognition
Winners of the Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 will receive:
- A cash honorarium and an official certificate of recognition.
- National recognition for excellence in public interest journalism.
- An invitation to attend the award ceremony in Toronto.
- Winners may also receive an opportunity to participate in the U.S. Hillman Prize ceremony, expanding their exposure within the international journalism community.
Why the Canadian Hillman Prizes Matter
The Canadian Hillman Prizes 2026 represent more than just an award — they are a statement of commitment to journalism that matters. The prizes spotlight stories that hold those in power accountable, uncover hidden injustices, and contribute to the ongoing fight for fairness, equity, and social justice.
By recognizing courageous reporting and impactful storytelling, the Hillman Foundation continues to encourage a culture of truth, transparency, and accountability across Canada’s media landscape.
How to Apply
Interested journalists and media organizations are invited to submit their entries before the deadline. Ensure your submission meets all eligibility requirements and includes all necessary supporting materials.
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