Women Podcasters Awards Opens 2026 Nominations With New Creator-Friendly Rules.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards, a global awards program recognizing excellence, innovation, and audience impact in podcasting and broadcasting created by women. Creators from around the world are invited to submit their shows during the nomination window through March 31, 2026.

Now in its third year, the 2026 awards include several updates and refinements that were added directly in response to feedback from previous nominees. Organizers say the changes aim to improve clarity, streamline the nomination process, and enhance the experience overall for participants.

For the first time, 2026 nominees themselves can sign on as sponsors — a much-requested shift that creates new visibility opportunities for creators and networks looking to stand out.

Submissions are also getting a structural overhaul. Instead of judging individual hosts or personalities, the competition will now evaluate each podcast or broadcast as a complete show, a move intended to better reflect how audiences actually experience the work.

To keep podcast entries aligned with industry standards, submissions must now include an active RSS feed along with Apple and Spotify links. Any production without an RSS feed will still have a path in, but it will be considered under the Broadcast category rather than Podcast.

And to open the door to more creators, the early-bird entry fee has been lowered to $10 — a decision meant to boost participation and reduce financial barriers for independents and emerging voices. The early bird nomination rate is in effect until Jan. 1, 2026.

“We intentionally keep the nomination pricing low so more women can participate without worrying about the financial barriers that often come with awards competitions,” founder Jennifer Henczel says. “Our goal is to make recognition accessible and to ensure every creator has the opportunity to gain visibility and rally their audience.”

Winners are chosen through a people’s choice selection. The voting process encourages creators to activate their communities, deepen listener loyalty, and expand reach through authentic audience support. Voting is set for April 1, 2026 to April 30, 2026. Winners will be announced at an award ceremony next May.

Organizers say in its first year, the Women Podcasters Awards received more than 400 nominees and over 15,000 public votes, reflecting strong enthusiasm from listeners and creators. 

Find nomination details HERE.