ASBPE launched the Journalism That Matters Award in 2009 to recognize a B2B, association or trade publication journalist whose coverage of an issue triggers a tangible change within government or industry. 

The award was inspired by the outstanding journalism featured in the book Journalism That Matters: How Business to Business Editors Change the Industries They Cover (Marion Street Press, 2006). The book showcases changes in government policy or industry practices as a result of articles written by B2B, association, and trade journalists.

Because of its high bar, the award has been given to only three journalists since it was created. 

In 2009, it was given to HSToday editor David Silverberg for his piece calling out the National Football League for a policy prohibiting ads referencing terrorism, borders and immigration. After the HSToday articles, the NFL changed its policy.

In 2011, it was given to The Spine Journal for protecting the integrity of scientific publishing. A special issue it published in June of that year helped call out ways industry sponsors undermined research and led to the retraction of an influential paper that had been based on biased findings.  

And in May 2018, the award went to Anne Galloway of VT Digger. She and her team of reporters uncovered financial improprieties by one of Vermont’s most prominent business people. A resort near the Canadian border he was developing turned out to be riddled with improprieties. As a result of several years of reporting, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission launched an investigation and later brought charges against the business person and his partners.

We challenge you to be ASBPE’s next honoree.

B2B, association, and trade journalists are well-positioned to investigate harmful, unfair or burdensome practices in government or industry. Courageous journalism can lead to changes in government policy or industry practices by shedding light on a controversial government policy or practice, calling attention to an industry practice that is widely accepted but needs reform, or offering practical guidelines to improve performance within an industry.

If you or a colleague produced journalism that matters in 2020, we want to hear about it.

All forms of media — print, online, video, audio podcasting — are eligible. The deadline to complete the nomination form is Feb. 19, 2021. The winner will be recognized at the 2021 National Azbee Awards of Excellence presentation in May. 

Questions? Contact Robert Freedman at rfreedman@industrydive.com.