These annual awards honor the best media coverage of the global south — stories that break through stereotypes, change the narrative and connect people across cultures. Awards are offered in many categories, including Environmental Reporting and Press Freedom. Deadline is Feb 9, 2026.

MacDowell in New Hampshire supports journalists by providing residencies (studio, lodging and meals for two weeks to two months) and project funding of up to $2,500 in addition to financial aid for accepted applicants engaged in long-form journalism projects. Apply by Feb 10 for Fall Winter 2026/2027.

Photographers worldwide can contribute their work that celebrates and illustrates the rich diversity of life on Earth and inspires action to protect and conserve it through the power of imagery. Cash prizes in seven categories. Entry fees apply. Deadline: Mar 1, 2026.

This online event is presented by the Institute for Independent Journalists, an organization whose mission is the emotional and financial sustainability of freelancers of color. Earlybird registration rates end Dec 31.

The Society of Professional Journalists' New America Award honors public service journalism that explores and exposes issues of importance to immigrant or ethnic communities in the United States. Although not required, collaboration with ethnic media is taken into account. Deadline is Mar 11, 2026.

This annual contest is for writers who have not published a major work of fiction or narrative nonfiction on topics of wilderness, wildness or the ethics and ecology of environmental issues. $3,000 for the first-place essay selection and $1,000 for a runner-up. Deadline: Mar 15, 2026.

The Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital (DCEFF) annually showcases environmentally themed films. DCEFF is happy to have locally-based reporters attend screenings, but remote journalists can reach out with interview requests for attending guests and filmmakers. Submit a film by Dec 1; cash prizes.

The Association of Science Communicators' SCIENCE TALK ’26 will be a hybrid conference, with in-person events in Portland, Oregon, and real-time, online participation for speakers and attendees also available.

The Online News Association’s annual conference brings together creative minds to advance leadership and innovation in news. ONA26 takes place in Chicago, Illinois, with the theme TBA.