Running the IPPY Awards isn’t just a job for us—it’s a passion. Every year, as we dive into the sea of submissions from talented independent authors and publishers, we’re reminded of why we love what we do.

Below, we want to take you behind the scenes and share what we love most about running the IPPYs. From the thrill of announcing the medalists to the joy of discovering new talent, every step of the process is incredibly rewarding.

So, whether you’re an author, a publisher, or simply a lover of books, we hope this glimpse into our world gives you a sense of why the IPPY Awards are so close to our hearts.

The Joy of Celebrating Authors

One of the greatest joys of running the IPPY Awards is the opportunity to connect with different creative minds. Each year, as the submissions start rolling in, there’s a unique sense of excitement in the air.

We never know what hidden gems we’ll discover—a debut novelist with a fresh voice, a small press putting out groundbreaking work, or an established indie author who continues to push boundaries.

The diversity of content we experience is another aspect we love. Independent publishing is full of rich stories, and it’s reflected in the wide range of genres, topics, and perspectives we receive.

From literary fiction to poetry to graphic novels, every submission brings something different to the table—keeping our work fresh and continually inspiring us. We’re forever learning something new or seeing the world through a different lens.

But it’s not just about the excitement of discovering new talent—it’s also about supporting them. There’s something fulfilling about helping independent voices gain the recognition they deserve.

Many indie publishers operate on tight budgets with limited resources, yet they’re producing work that’s innovative, daring, and important. Shining a spotlight on these efforts is meaningful to each of our team members. We know an IPPY Award can open doors for these creators, giving them the boost they need to reach a wider audience.

Championing indie publishers isn’t just a job for us; it’s essential to our mission. We’re passionate about celebrating the creativity that defines independent publishing, and we’re honored to play a role in helping these voices be heard.

The Sense of Community and Shared Purpose

One of the most fulfilling aspects of running the IPPY Awards is the sense of community we get to foster. Over the years, we’ve built a network of like-minded independent publishers, authors, and industry pros who share our passion for creativity and storytelling.

What we love most is how the awards strengthen the indie publishing ecosystem. By bringing together creators from around the world, we help forge connections that might not have happened otherwise. It’s amazing to see collaborations form and friendships develop through the shared experience of the IPPY Awards.

Ultimately, it’s this shared purpose and sense of community that keeps us motivated. We’re not just running an awards program—we’re contributing to a movement that celebrates and supports independent publishing, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of!

Our Inspiration and Motivation for the Future

Every year, we’re amazed by the originality and dedication that independent authors and publishers bring. Their work not only inspires us but also reminds us why independent publishing is so vital—the perseverance, bold ideas, and the drive to share meaningful stories.

With each year’s submissions, we’re always learning and growing as a team. And as we look forward to each new year, the anticipation of discovering new voices and unexpected stories keeps us on our toes.

Ready to submit your book? Whether you’re a seasoned publisher or a first-time author, your work deserves to be recognized. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table—submit your work right here!

A Peek Into Our Team