Entry FAQs

  • Is there a word limit on submissions?

    Yes. You will have a word limit of 2,000 words.

    Entries can exceed or go below the word limit by around 10%. Each entry needs to describe the achievements and in particular, support its entry with proof of its success and customer feedback. Your submission will need to be in the form of a PDF or Word document. 

    Plus, you will need to include a brief summary of up to 250 words which may be used as an example of best practice on The MJ Awards website should you become a winner. 

  • As a past winner or finalist, is there any point in me submitting nominations again?

    Absolutely! There is a new judging panel each year so the judges will not necessarily have seen any submissions from last year. 

    Plus, if you don’t enter, you won’t win. If you are a previous winner, try and win again. Others have. If you have been a previous finalist go for it, and try and win this time round. 


  • What does the judging process look like?

    All nominations will be shortlisted by a panel of at least 3 judges.

    Judges have 4 weeks to agree on a shortlist of 6-8 local authorities plus any they would like to commend. The judging criteria for each category of award differs slightly. By clicking the Enter Now tab in the menu and selecting Categories, you will be able to read the description of the category and the criteria and click through to enter your choices.

    If you have been shortlisted you may be invited for an interview between March – May where you will be allowed to give a 15-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute Q&A session. The winner and any highly commended are decided at this stage.

  • Who judges the awards?

    For each category, there are at least three judges who are leading experts from within the sector associated with the category.

  • Can I enter multiple categories?

    Yes. There is no limit to the number of categories that you can enter and nominations are free of charge.

    As long as you are eligible based on the description of the category then there are no restrictions as to how many categories you can enter. You are also able to enter the same category with more than one submission so long as it remains relevant.

  • When will the finalists be announced?

    The finalists will be announced on Friday 29th March.

  • How up-to-date should nominations be?

    All submissions should be based on projects finished and performance of individuals within the last 12 months.