Light Reading's Leading Lights Awards

What is The Leading Lights Awards?

Presented by Light Reading, The Leading Lights is the communications industry's most prestigious honor recognizing top companies, products, teams and executives for outstanding achievement in next-generation telecommunications technology, services, strategies and innovations. Since 2004, the Light Reading team has organized The Leading Lights awards to honor the companies, teams and individuals carrying the industry forward.

SEE THE 2026 WINNERS

FAQs

When does The Leading Lights open for nominations?

During the Early Bird period (4/16 - 5/15) the fee is $399 per entry. On May 18, the Final Deadline period begins and the fee is $499 per entry. You can pay via debit or credit card at the time of submission. All entries must be paid before judging begins. Paying online is the only accepted method.

Finalists will be announced on Tuesday, July 22, 2026 on lightreading.com. The Leading Lights Winners will be announced on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Explore more FAQs and detailed information on the nomination process here.

Who judges the Leading Lights Awards?

The entry process, judging and final selection of winners are produced independently of any other program or process run by or associated with Light Reading. Every entry is judged on its own merits by our Editors as well as a curated group of industry experts.

The judging process is overseen by Phil Harvey, Light Reading's chief editor, who has been a reporter and editor at the publication for over 18 years. The first-round judges include Light Reading's editorial team.

Final round judges are a curated group of independent contributors and analyst colleagues, who bring specific expertise across our award categories.

What should I include in my nomination?

Keep your awards entries clear, concise, accurate and interesting. Focus on why you think your company or work should win, be specific and, when you make a claim to greatness, back it up with evidence. Having customers or partners who will vouch for your claims definitely helps, too.

You may provide up to 3 links with additional information to support your entry. One of those links can be to a Dropbox or Google Drive folder with additional articles, charts, data or research to give our judges a fuller picture of your work

All entries must be written in English and submitted via our online form (available on April 15).

For any general inquiries or for assistance, please contact our team at [email protected]