The New England Newspaper of the Year Award is one of the most distinctive honors in journalism because it is judged not by industry professionals, but by the people newspapers serve every day: readers.
Each year, New England news consumers are appointed to evaluate entries from a reader’s perspective and determine which publications deserve to be recognized as Newspaper of the Year. It is the only competition of its kind in the newspaper industry and provides a unique opportunity to have your work evaluated by the audience that matters most.
Readers assess publications based on a variety of factors, including the quality of reporting and writing, use of photography, design and presentation, digital offerings, overall utility and value, and the publication’s connection to the community it serves. Judges are asked to consider questions such as: Does the newspaper inform, educate, entertain, inspire, motivate, or lead? Does it reflect and care about its community? Does it put readers first? Is it unique or special in some way?
The award recognizes overall excellence rather than a single story or project. It celebrates news organizations that consistently provide strong journalism, serve their audiences well, innovate, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Entering is simple. Editors complete the entry form, provide a brief summary, and upload two editions published during the contest year (June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026). Winners will be recognized in a range of circulation categories.
NENPA member newspapers may enter in five categories:
• Weekday Newspapers
• Sunday Newspapers
• Weekly Community Newspapers
• Specialty Publications
• Online News Sites
After entries are received, publications will be assigned to competitive divisions based on size and category, including small and large weeklies, small and large dailies, Sunday publications, and local and regional news sites.
DOWNLOAD 2026 NEWSPAPER AWARDS GUIDELINES
Recipients of the New England Newspaper of the Year Award will be honored during the Awards Luncheon at NENPA’s Fall Leadership Conference on October 9, 2026, at the Publick House Historic Inn in Sturbridge, Massachusetts.
Be sure to visit the award page and scroll to the bottom to see past winners and the publications that have earned this distinction over the years.
Entry deadline: July 10, 2026.