A coalition of leading marketing, communications and industry organizations serving the public sector today announced the launch of The Echo Awards, a new program recognizing journalists whose work amplifies understanding of government, policy, and the business of the public sector.

Created to celebrate those who inform the public and uphold transparency in government, The Echo Awards honor outstanding reporting across federal, state, local, and education markets. From policy and defense to technology and management, the program shines a spotlight on the journalists who bring clarity, accountability, and insight to some of the nation’s most complex stories.

“Public sector journalism plays a critical role in helping citizens and decision-makers make sense of an increasingly complex world,” said Evan Weisel, Principal and Co-Founder of W2 Communications. “The Echo Awards are about honoring the dedication, rigor, and impact of reporters who ensure that government and industry remain transparent, innovative, and responsive.”

The call for nominations opens today and will remain open through February 13, 2026. Finalists will be determined by public voting throughout March and April, leading up to the inaugural Echo Awards Gala on June 11, 2026, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

Award categories will recognize excellence across public sector beats, including:

• Best Government Technology Journalist
• Best Defense Journalist
• Best Policy Journalist
• Best Government Contracting Business Journalist
• Best Investigative Journalist
• Best SLED Journalist
• Best Government Management Journalist
• Best Broadcast/Podcast Host
• Best Up-and-Coming Journalist
• Lifetime Achievement Award

Submissions are welcome from anyone - including fellow journalists, editors, communications professionals and public affairs leaders. Entries must include links to at least three original works published or broadcast in 2025, along with a short paragraph describing the nominee’s impact and contribution.

“Journalists who cover the public sector help all of us better understand how government works and why it matters,” said Matt Donovan, Senior Vice President at Merritt Group. “The Echo Awards honor that essential service — bringing clarity, accountability, and context to some of the most important issues of our time.”

The Echo Awards are organized by a host committee representing the broader public sector communications and industry community, including: W2 Communications, Focused Image, RMK Productions, Boscobel Marketing Communications, Birdsong Partners, Sage Communications, Merritt Group, REQ, Yes& Agency and Carahsoft.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to submit a nomination, visit https://theechoawards.com/.

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