The 2026 Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting are Now Open for Submissions

Submissions are now open for the 22nd Anniversary Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Aards for Investigative Reporting. News organizations across Chicago and Illinois are encouraged to apply. The deadline to submit your entry is Monday, February 23rd at 11:59 p.m. CDT.

Join us for Beyond the Byline: Featuring the 22nd Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting on Thursday, May 7, from 3:30-8:30 p.m. at Venue SIX10 in downtown Chicago.

The event will feature a community-centered storytelling panel elevating the sources, experts and lived experiences that informed Illinois Answers Project investigations; an engaging conversation with Errin Haines, editor-at-large at The 19th; the presentation of the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting; and a reception.

Now in their 22nd year, the Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting recognize the essential role investigative journalism plays in strengthening democracy in Illinois. Judged by a panel of journalists and media educators, the awards were established by the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, inspired by the late Richard Driehaus' deep belief in the power of journalism and his longstanding partnership with the Better Government Association.

Award Categories:

Large Newsroom (newsrooms with editorial staffs of 10 or more):

• 1st Place - $12,000
• Runner up - $5,000

Small Newsroom (newsrooms with editorial staffs of less than 10):

• 1st Place - $7,000
• Runner up - $2,000

Awards Submission and Contest FAQ:

Who is eligible to submit their work?

Stories can be submitted by newsrooms located in Chicago and Illinois. Illinois-based Freelancers are also eligible to submit their work.

What stories are eligible for submission?

Print, digital, radio, and television reporting is accepted. Stories must have been published between January 1 - December 31, 2025.

How many stories can I enter?

There is no limit to how many stories you submit; individuals/newsrooms may submit multiple entries from multiple reporters. However, each story or series of stories should be submitted separately.

What do I need to submit besides a link to my work?

Supporting material will be accepted but is not necessary.

When will I be notified about whether or not my story is a finalist?

Finalists will be notified via email on March 16.

Is there anything else I should know?

All applications must meet the Society of Professional Journalists' Code of Ethics standards. Entities that are principally advocacy organizations are not eligible. Entries should include all related corrections, clarifications, or retractions.

Additional Questions?Contact Amanda Hill at [email protected]