The IMI Awards were established in 2023 to shine a spotlight on exceptional independent creators. They are the first prestige prizes awarded specifically to independent creators to honor the intrinsic value of media created in the place where the modern world listens, reads and watches—the internet. ​

 

Award winners are selected on the basis of an "exceptional" piece of work or contribution to the independent media landscape, in the sense that no one “except” for them could have made it. The award includes a monetary prize in recognition of the substantial impact that award winners have had on society, and their potential to do so in the future.

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The IMI Awards are “no strings attached” awards, which do not require specific projects or reports from award winners, or evaluate award winners after the award is made. Award winners are selected on the recommendation of the IMI Board of Directors, with nominations solicited from a community of independent media creators and advisors.