We are excited to release our 2026 NBA Pinnacle Awards criteria, rules and entry timeline!
A practice window for the “Rock Our Awards” entry platform will be open from April 1 – 7 for new users to get familiar with the process. (** All practice entries will be deleted before the live entry window opens. **)
The live entry window opens Thursday, April 9 and closes at 5pm CT on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
Our 2026 official criteria & rules document, including “must have aired” dates and a tutorial on the “Rock Our Awards” entry portal, can be found here.
NEW for 2026:
BEST PODCAST (3 entries/station, max.) Recognizes outstanding audio (Radio) or video (TV) storytelling created specifically for on-demand podcast platforms. Submissions must be original works produced for on-demand consumption, not rebroadcast or edited versions of previously aired content. Submissions cannot exceed 7 continuous minutes in length.
BEST USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS (3 entries/station, max.) Recognizes an outstanding compilation of social media content to connect with audiences and inform the public. Representing one story or topic, each submission must include at least two and up to four URLs to the relevant social media posts.
“Best Election Coverage” will return in 2027.
Professional entries remain just $30 each with 100% of the proceeds going to the NBA Foundation scholarship fund.
We look forward to seeing who will be recognized among the best of the best in Nebraska broadcasting, to be celebrated during our Pinnacle Awards banquet on the evening of Wednesday, August 12 at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln, co-sponsored by Pinnacle Bank and Nebraska Public Power District.