Entry FAQs

See below for answers to our frequently asked questions, however, you may find more of what you're looking for in our brand new Submissions Guide.

Download the guide here!

  • What is the nomination deadline?

    The deadline is Friday 29 January 2027, 5pm

  • Can I enter multiple categories?

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

    You are also able to enter the same category with more than one submission so long as it remains relevant.

  • Is there a word limit on submissions?

    Your submission can be a maximum of 1,000 words.

    You won't be penalised if you do not reach this word limit. As long as your entry describes the achievements and has evidence of its success, you'll have a strong submission.

    Your submission will need to be in the form of a PDF or Word document. 

  • Do you have a downloadable guide to help me write my submission?

    We do indeed. In the guide, you'll discover why you should enter, judging criteria, useful tips and FAQs to help your submission stand out. Download the guide here.

  • How much cost a seat/table cost to attend The MJ Awards?

    Check out the variety of packages here.

  • How up-to-date should nominations be?

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

  • Are there any Terms & Conditions when entering The MJ Awards?

    As part of our Terms & Conditions, nominations are free of charge, however, if your nomination is shortlisted, a representative from the council must attend the awards ceremony on Friday 19th June 2026 in London. Upon submitting your entry, you will be asked to agree to these terms.

  • 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 3 weeks to agree on a shortlist of up to 10 submissions 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 2nd February – 19th February 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.

  • When will the finalists be announced?

    The finalists will be announced to the public in early March 2027.

  • What is 'The MJ'?

    The MJ supports local authorities to improve the lives of millions of individuals and communities across the nation. We provide news, opinions and interviews from senior officers and leaders in the sector and best practice examples to empower decision-making, develop strategies and pinpoint potential blind spots. We do this through our weekly magazine and website, industry events such as Future Forums for senior officers, roundtable events and The MJ Awards.