The Media Talent Manifesto has announced two new industry and education partners for On Air 2026, alongside the launch of the inaugural On Air Awards, as the global student broadcast initiative continues to build momentum across the media and entertainment sector.

New industry partners announced to be joining On Air for 2026 include dB Broadcast, Hitomi, Hotcam TV, MASV, Mimir and WarnerBros. Discovery, reinforcing growing industry commitment to supporting the next generation of media talent.

They join an established network of partners including SVG Europe, Aski-Da Taldea, Amazon Web Services (AWS), BBC, Clear-Com, CNN, Deluxe, disguise, IAMT, IBC, InSync, Into Film, IPLocker, Levira, OOONA, Platform Communications, Provys, SMPTE, Tanooki, Techex, Vizrt, and Zixi.

Taking place on 22–23 October 2026, On Air returns as the world’s largest student-led broadcast, connecting students, educators and industry professionals across the globe. Building on its inaugural year, the 2026 edition introduces a multi-channel format spanning news, sport, film, culture and children’s content, enabling broader participation and deeper collaboration across regions.

“The level of global engagement we’re seeing for On Air 2026 reflects just how important initiatives like this have become,” said Carrie Wootten, Co-Founder of the Media Talent Manifesto.

“It’s about giving students meaningful, real-world experience and creating stronger connections between education and industry. That combination is critical if we’re going to build a workforce that reflects the future of media.”

The initiative continues to expand its global education network, with new partners joining for 2026 including Academy of Arts Asaba, Auckland University of Technology, Bath Spa University, Baylor University, Bond University, Busan Cinema Center, City of Glasgow College, City College of San Francisco (CCSF), Cairo University, Fife College, Istanbul Okan University, Morley College, New Zealand Broadcasting School, North Hertfordshire College, Pan-Atlantic University, Rise Academy, SGS Higher Education and University Centre, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Universidad del Cine, University of Bristol, University Centre Farnborough, University for the Creative Arts, University of the West of Scotland, University of Surrey and University of Worcester.

New for 2026, the On Air Awards will recognise outstanding student contributions from the 2025 broadcast, celebrating creativity, collaboration, technical excellence and innovation across the global participant community.

The awards span eight categories, including Future Broadcast Team, Best Student Storytelling, Best Technical Production, Innovation in Broadcast, and Outstanding Student in Role, highlighting the breadth of skills involved in modern media production.

Deluxe, ITV Studios, Laura Meyer, Levira Media Services, Ross Video, University of Westminster and Vizrt are all onboard as category sponsors. There are now a further three category sponsorship opportunities currently available.

The introduction of the awards marks a natural next step for On Air, recognising the achievements of students who have demonstrated exceptional ability across all areas of the broadcast workflow. The awards will be announced as part of On Air 2026.

On Air 2026 will broadcast live globally on 22–23 October 2026, with content available on demand following the event.