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Media Innovation Competition

Competition Rules

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Citygate Network’s Media Innovation Competition will take place February 16, 2026 – May 1, 2026. This competition showcases some of the most dynamic and compelling media created by and for Citygate Network members and is an exclusive benefit for mission/ministry and business members.

Entries may be created in-house or by an outside agency and must highlight the work of a Citygate Network member ministry. Citygate Network business members are also eligible, recognizing the creative partnerships that support and strengthen our ministries.

Make sure your entries meet the following rules, and be sure to review the judging criteria for further information.

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2026 Rules

  • All submissions must be made using an online entry form.
  • PRINT PUBLICATIONS: ANNUAL REPORT, GENERAL BROCHURE, NEWSLETTER | Only items produced for use in 2025 may be entered. Annual Reports created in 2026 for 2025 reporting are also eligible.
    • You must mail-in one hard copy for each submitted publication per category and include the name of the vendor (if applicable). For example, you may submit one copy of the May/June 2025 issue of your newsletter, or one copy each of the March/April and May/June 2025 issues. Please do not submit more than two different issues published during the year. Mailed items must be postmarked by April 29, 2026. 
  • PHOTOGRAPHY | Photographs must have been taken in 2025 (though they do not need to have been published that year). Submissions should relate directly to your mission/ministry, including the people you serve, methods of service, or outcomes of ministry. Please include the photographer’s name and the date the photo was taken.
    • Images must be high resolution and no larger than 3 MB. All photography must be original (not stock), and entrants must own the rights to publish the photos. Photos will be uploaded through the online entry form made available closer to the contest date (printed copies are not required). Please self-edit and submit only your best three entries.
  • VIDEOS | Video submissions may be entered in two categories, and must have been produced in 2025:

    • Short Videos (up to 60 seconds), such as PSAs or commercials, or

    • Extended Videos (longer than 60 seconds), created to tell a client’s story, support fundraising efforts, or be shown at special events.

  • WEBSITE + SOCIAL MEDIA | Social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn) and websites will be judged in their current 2026 state. Please provide the URL(s) as indicated on the online entry form, which will be made available closer to the contest date.

  • PODCAST | Podcast submissions must have been produced in 2025. Entries may include a single episode or a short series and should clearly reflect the mission, work, and impact of a Citygate Network member ministry. Please provide the podcast title, episode name(s), and a direct link or audio file as indicated on the online entry form.

All submissions must be completed online by May 1, 2026.