Question 1

Who can submit to the Manhattan Music Awards?

Accepted Answer

Companies, agencies, labels, software makers, artists and creators working in the music industry are all eligible. Entries can be submitted by the rights-holder or by an agency on their behalf.

Question 2

When is the submission deadline?

Accepted Answer

Submissions for the 2025 program are open year-round, with the final cutoff in late autumn. Extended deadlines may be available upon request — contact us for details.

Question 3

What does the entry fee cover?

Accepted Answer

Fees cover jury review, administration, and shortlisting. Winners receive a digital and physical award and inclusion in the annual winners showcase.

Question 4

How are winners chosen?

Accepted Answer

A 50-member jury of senior music industry professionals scores each entry against five criteria: craft, innovation, impact, presentation, and category fit. See the Judging Criteria page for full details.

Question 5

Can I enter the same project in multiple categories?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each category has its own evaluation, so a strong entry can win across multiple categories where applicable. A separate entry fee applies to each category.

Question 6

When are winners announced?

Accepted Answer

Winners are announced annually at the end of the judging cycle, typically in January. Past winners are listed on the Winners pages.

Question 7

What date range must my work fall within to be eligible?

Accepted Answer

Work must have been broadcast, published or released in a commercial environment, with client approval, between the eligibility window stated for the current cycle. Work created solely to enter the competition is not eligible.

Question 8

Can multiple agencies be credited on a single entry?

Accepted Answer

Yes — most work is a joint effort. An entry fee entitles one entering company per submission. If two offices want to be listed as the entering company, each must enter individually and pay a fee.

Question 9

What are the rules for case studies?

Accepted Answer

Case studies must clearly show the work in-situ, must not exceed 3 minutes, must be in English or have English subtitles, and must use Royalty-Free music. Media cannot be changed once judging commences.

Question 10

Can I use copyrighted music in my submission?

Accepted Answer

All music in entries and case studies must be Royalty-Free or properly Licensed. By entering, you confirm you have the rights to use the music in perpetuity, including for use on the MMA website if the entry is shortlisted or wins.

Question 11

What happens if my entry is disqualified?

Accepted Answer

Entries using extraneous unlicensed music — particularly in Branded Entertainment — will be disqualified. Entry fees for disqualified entries are non-refundable.

Question 12

How do creative credits work?

Accepted Answer

All creative credits must be entered before finalizing your submission. Leave inapplicable fields blank — do not use dashes or N/A. Credits appear on our website, in press releases, and are used to calculate Of The Year awards.

Question 13

What does winning include?

Accepted Answer

Winners receive a physical statue (one per registered entrant), inclusion in our annual winners showcase, press coverage, and the right to use the Manhattan Music Awards winner mark in their own marketing.

Question 14

How can I become a judge or partner?

Accepted Answer

We are actively seeking judges, performers, and brand partnerships for upcoming in-person events. Reach out via the Contact page to start the conversation.