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Announcement for Participation in 2026 Sunshine State Awards

The 2026 Sunshine State Awards, recognized as Florida's largest and longest-running journalism competition, is officially open for entries. Organized by SPJ Florida, this year marks the 32nd anniversary of the competition, which aims to celebrate outstanding journalism produced over the past calendar year, particularly in 2025.

Journalists from across the state, including those from Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as reporters from other states covering Florida, are invited to participate. There is also a student division designed to honor the emerging talents in high schools, colleges, and universities throughout Florida.

Submission Deadlines

The competition allows for initial submissions until Monday, March 9, with a late submission deadline of Monday, March 23 (a late fee will apply).

Special Awards

This year, the A-Mark Award for Investigative Journalism makes a comeback, further emphasizing the competition's commitment to encouraging transparency and holding power accountable. With a total prize of $15,000, the A-Mark Foundation supports investigative journalists in their efforts to uncover the truth.

Categories for Submission

Participants can submit their work across seven different categories:

• - Print and Digital Writing
• - Photography and Design
• - Television and Video
• - Radio and Audio
• - Digital Media
• - Spanish Language
• - Student Entries (both College and High School)

About the Sunshine State Awards

The Sunshine State Awards, presented by SPJ Florida, has partnered over the last decade with the South Florida chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) to include a special Spanish-language division. Established in 1994, this program has consistently honored excellence in the field, with all entries being judged by current and retired journalists and journalism educators from outside of Florida's market.

Moreover, the net proceeds from this competition are reinvested into training, programming, and advocacy for journalists throughout Florida.

For more detailed guidelines on submissions, category descriptions, and to enter your work, please visit the Sunshine State Awards contest portal. Additional information, alongside links to last year’s winners, can be found at SPJFlorida.com.

Join us in celebrating the rich tradition of journalism and the contributions of talented reporters in Florida – submit your best work today!