Nonprofit News Awards
The Nonprofit News Awards, or INNYs, honor excellence in journalism, leadership and community service across the field of nonprofit news.
The INNYs include and go beyond traditional award categories like “best investigative journalism” to recognize what differentiates nonprofit news – values like collaboration, innovation and impact. The awards are open to all news organizations that are full members in good standing of the Institute for Nonprofit News (INN).
Nominations for the INN Service to Nonprofit News Award are being accepted from Nov. 9 through Nov. 30, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET / 8:59 p.m. PT (learn about this award here). Entry instructions are here. The rest of the categories in the 2027 Nonprofit News Awards will open for entries in January 2027.
View Award Recipients by Year
The INNYs honor qualities and achievements that reflect the values of nonprofit news, such as outstanding leadership, community service, collaboration and innovation. Many of the entries go beyond informing readers about important issues and events in their communities by fostering conversation and action.
INNYs Awards
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Best Investigative Journalism Award
Honors a single story or series that uncovered significant and impactful news based on the reporters’ own investigation and which advances and serves the public interest. -
Honors reporting that brought new understanding to an issue or topic affecting people or communities that are historically underrepresented, disadvantaged or marginalized — and resulted in impactful change.
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Honors an INN member organization that made a significant contribution to the well-being of its community through a journalism-centered project or service.
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Honors an individual with less than five years in executive leadership who is an emerging luminary in the field.
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INN Service to Nonprofit News Award
Honors an individual for their service to nonprofit news over the course of their careers. -
Honors an organization that produced an innovative idea or practice that had a positive impact on the trajectory of the newsroom and will help the newsroom serve its community or audience into the future.
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Insight Award for Explanatory Journalism
Honors a single story or a series of explanatory reporting that provides insight and understanding of a significant and complex subject. -
Insight Award for Visual Journalism
Honors a single story or a series of stories that uses photography and/or other visual media to more accurately portray a community that has traditionally been underrepresented or misrepresented in news media. -
Journalism Collaboration of the Year
Honors a news-oriented project or ongoing partnership that exemplifies the culture of sharing and cooperation in nonprofit news and expands the impact of its journalism. -
Nonprofit Newcomer of the Year
Honors an individual who is new to the field of nonprofit news (less than two years) and is contributing to the success of their organization through innovation. -
Honors reporting that brought new understanding to an issue or topic affecting people or communities that are historically underrepresented, disadvantaged or marginalized — and resulted in impactful change.
Awards News
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Sixth annual Nonprofit News Awards highlight watchdog reporting, innovative leadership and storytelling on immigration
Winners of the 2026 INNYs represent innovation, transformational leadership and impactful reporting.
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2026 INNYs finalists reflect ‘heroic work’ of nonprofit news
Finalists for the sixth annual Nonprofit News Awards focused tough issues through compelling newswriting, poignant photos, thoughtful community engagement and other efforts.
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The Nonprofit News Awards joins INN Days 2026 in Pittsburgh this June
INN Days 2026 will take place from June 16-18 in Pittsburgh, bringing together news leaders, technologists and business strategists.
INNYs Sponsorship
Opportunities
Celebrate excellence in nonprofit journalism by becoming a sponsor of The INNYs! Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to recognize the outstanding work of nonprofit newsrooms, connect with leaders across the field, and support an evening dedicated to honoring journalism’s impact. Whether you’re looking to elevate your organization’s visibility, help celebrate this year’s award winners, or contribute to a memorable evening, we have sponsorship opportunities for you!
