2025 Policies
Awards Chair – Awards Eligibility
The Awards Chair and Co-Chair (if applicable) are not eligible to submit for either National or Industry awards. Any submission entered on their behalf will be disqualified. This policy is in place because the Chair and Co-Chair are closely involved in appointing judges and finalizing the rules, criteria, and regulations, which could present a conflict of interest.
Awards Subcommittee – Awards Eligibility
Members of the Awards Subcommittee remain eligible to submit for and be nominated for both National and Industry awards. This is because the final decision-making authority rests with the Awards Chair, not the Subcommittee. Subcommittee members are not responsible for appointing judges or finalizing award criteria, rules, or regulations. Their role is advisory, offering input and support throughout the awards process.
President – Judging Rule
The President and Vice-President will not participate in judging either National or Recognition awards. This responsibility rests solely with the judges appointed by the Awards Committee.
Awards Submission Policy
All award submissions must be received between November 17, 2025 (12pm EST) to January 9, 2026 (3pm EST). Submissions received before or after this period will not be considered. To ensure fairness to all members submitting, no exceptions will be made due to member error or misunderstanding.
Code of Conduct Policy
Members are expected to engage respectfully with all Awards Committee Chairs and Committee members. Any conduct deemed unbecoming, abusive, or harassing may result in disciplinary action, up to and including the immediate disqualification of the submission and/or revocation of membership, as determined by the Awards Committee.
Member Responsibility for Award Submissions Policy
All award submissions—whether you are submitting for yourself or nominating another member—must be submitted directly by the member making the submission. Submissions cannot be prepared or submitted on a member’s behalf by the CAO, Board Members, or committee representatives. Any such submissions will not be accepted.
2026 Award Submission Changes
Media will be able to submit up to two award entries at no cost. Each additional submission will incur a fee of $30. This change is being introduced in response to the high volume of submissions, our judges’ feedback, and to align with industry standards.
We will keep the cap to 6 award entries per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the Best Magazine or Newspaper Article category have an 800 word limitation?
A: In our survey, we received feedback from members who wanted to see a “shorter form” category for earned media. This could apply to magazine or newspaper columns, for example. If you have a magazine or newspaper piece that’s over 800 words, don’t worry — the same five categories from last year are still available for you to enter!
Q: I am in the middle of requalifying, and I’m waiting to hear from Membership. Can I still submit an award?
A: Yes. For Media members currently undergoing requalification, please note that this will not impede your ability to submit for awards. While eligibility is typically limited to Media Members in good standing, we are making an exception this year due to timelines. Though, please note, that if your membership does not get renewed, your award submission(s) will be disqualified.
Q: Are there minimum criteria for submissions?
A: Yes. Submissions must meet TMAC’s content and circulation requirements. Sponsored content is eligible (view submission guidelines HERE)
Q: Why do I need to show proof of payment if I’m an Awards finalist?
A: This has actually been a TMAC Awards requirement for several years, similar to showing proof of circulation numbers. Because the Awards follow TMAC’s membership criteria—which require proof of paid work—it has always been a factor in eligibility, even if not previously stated outright. This year, we’re simply making that expectation transparent and ensuring it’s applied consistently across all categories. The conversation around this topic will be ongoing and discussed at the Awards Committee and National Board level. Should you have feedback on this topic, please save it for the post-conference survey.
Q: Are there rules around the use of AI in submissions?
A: Yes. We recognize the potential of AI tools in refining creative work, such as editing grammar, enhancing photo quality, or polishing video presentations. However, to uphold the integrity of this contest and honour the authentic efforts of our participants, all submissions—including written works, photographs, and videos—must be entirely original and created by the submitter. While entrants may use AI for minor touch-ups, generating or significantly altering content using AI tools is strictly prohibited. By entering, participants confirm that their work is authentically their own and align with these ethical guidelines.
Q: Can an award category be cancelled?
A: Yes. Categories with fewer than 10 entries will be removed from the program.
Q: Can TMAC volunteers submit entries?
A: Yes. Volunteers are eligible to submit; however, we have a policy against the Awards Chair or Co-Chair submitting entries or winning awards. Judging is conducted independently to ensure fairness.
Q: Can I submit in French?
A: Yes. TMAC is a national, bilingual organization with French-speaking judges.
Have Additional Questions?
Watch the Awards Information Session recorded on November 24, 2025
>>>WATCH THE RECORDING HERE <<<
If you still have questions: Contact Christine at christine.painter@travelmedia.ca