Better Newspaper Contest
The Iowa Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contests are one of our longest-standing traditions and among the most meaningful recognitions in Iowa journalism.
Each year, newspapers from across the state submit their best work in editorial, advertising, photography, design, writing and digital categories. Entries are evaluated by newspaper professionals from another state, providing an impartial and credible judging process.
The contests offer an opportunity to:
- Showcase work that made a difference in your community
- Recognize the staff members who make great journalism possible
- Receive constructive feedback from experienced judges
- Discover fresh ideas and opportunities for improvement
- Compare your work with publications of similar size and resources
- Celebrate the strength and importance of Iowa newspapers
Awards will be presented during the INA Annual Convention, where winners will be recognized and celebrated among their peers.
Important Contest Information:
Deadline for contest entries is 4:30 p.m. on October 9, 2026.
All eligible material must have been generated for publication between September 1, 2025 and August 31, 2026
Eligibility:
Any INA Active newspaper member in good standing may enter the contests.
Entry Classes:
To support fair competition, newspapers enter according to publication frequency and circulation. This allows each publication to be evaluated alongside newspapers with similar audiences and resources.
| Circ Class | 2027 Circulations |
| Class IV (multi-day) | 537 and above |
| Class III | 1166 – 13, 563 |
| Class II | 681 – 1165 |
| Class I | 680 and under |
Entry Submission:
All entries must be submitted through BetterNewspaperContest.com unless otherwise noted in the Call for Entries.
Judging and Awards:
Entries will be judged by Colorado Press Association members.
Awards will be presented during the Awards Ceremony at the INA Annual Convention on February 4, 2027.
Questions?
We want the entry process to be approachable for every INA member. If you have questions while selecting, preparing or submitting your entries, please contact the Iowa Newspaper Association:
Phone: 515-244-2145
Email: ina@inanews.com
The following resources will help you prepare and submit your entries:
Call for Entries-Coming Soon!
Review contest categories, eligibility requirements, entry limits, judging criteria and award information.
Entry Guide-Coming Soon!
Find step-by-step instructions for preparing entries and using the online contest platform.
Wagner Family Prize-Coming Soon!
Learn more about this special prize recognizing outstanding journalism.
ICMA-Coming Soon!
Access contest information and resources for the Iowa College Media Association.