Where we celebrate all that makes Berlin truly indie

In a city whose heart beats with creative independence, cultural innovation and its very own Berliner-Schnauzerisch maverick streak, we’re very happy to announce the return of the indieberlin Awards, a celebration of the troubled geniuses, mad musical scientists, innovators, and artistic pioneers who make Berlin one of the world’s most vibrant cultural capitals, still, after everything, a city with a fuck-you and make-do attitude all its own.

After a hiatus, the indieberlin Awards are back to shine a spotlight on the individuals, bands, venues, startups, and initiatives that embody Berlin’s thoroughly independent spirit. From underground music venues to breakthrough tech startups, from boundary-pushing artists to community-driven projects, these awards recognize those who dare to chart their own course in our beloved city.

Berlin’s independent scene has always been more than just a cultural movement – it’s the beating heart of our city’s identity. In basements, backrooms, and co-working spaces across the city, creators and innovators are rewriting the rules of what’s possible. The indieberlin Awards aim to celebrate these changemakers and give them the recognition they deserve.

Use Your Voice

What makes the indieberlin Awards unique is their grassroots approach. We believe that the people who make up Berlin’s independent scene – the artists, entrepreneurs, venue owners, and culture enthusiasts – should have a voice in recognizing excellence within their community. That’s why we’re kicking off the nomination process with you.

Starting today, you can nominate your picks for this year’s awards across multiple categories. Whether it’s that experimental electronic artist who’s pushing the boundaries of sound, the indie venue that’s become your second home, or the startup that’s revolutionizing how we think about sustainability – we want to hear about the people and projects that inspire you.

How to Participate

Nominations are simple and straightforward. Fill out the nomination form on the indie.berlin website to submit your picks for the various categories. Whether you’re nominating your own project or championing someone else’s work, each submission helps us create a comprehensive snapshot of Berlin’s thriving independent scene.

This nomination period will be open for two weeks as of today, 25.11.24, and be followed by a careful selection process, where our panel of industry experts and community figures, as well as the indieberlin crew and writers who have made our magazine and website what it is over the months and years, will review all submissions to create category shortlists.

The final winners will be determined through a combination of jury selection and community voting, ensuring that both expert opinion and public voice are represented in the final decisions.

More Than Just Awards

The indieberlin Awards are more than just an annual ceremony – they’re a platform for connection and discovery. Through the awards process, we aim to create new connections within Berlin’s independent community, foster collaborations, and help amazing initiatives reach new audiences.

In the lead-up to the awards ceremony, we’ll be featuring profiles of nominated individuals and projects, sharing their stories, and highlighting the incredible work being done across the city. This isn’t just about competition – it’s about creating a snapshot of Berlin’s independent scene at this moment in time and celebrating the diversity and creativity that makes our city unique.

Prizes to win

We’ve got a range of giveaways and prizes for the successful nominations, watch this space for more details!

Join the Celebration

Whether you’re a longtime player in Berlin’s independent scene or a newcomer with fresh ideas, the indieberlin Awards are your opportunity to be part of something bigger. Help us recognize the people and projects that make Berlin a global beacon for independence and creativity.

Visit our website to submit your nominations and be part of this exciting celebration of Berlin’s independent spirit. Together, let’s shine a light on the innovators, risk-takers, and dreamers who make our city extraordinary.

Stay tuned for announcements about categories, important dates, and events surrounding the awards. The indieberlin Awards are back, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you.

The indieberlin Awards ceremony is planned for January 2025. Follow us on social media and check our website regularly for updates on nominations, shortlists, and event details.

CATEGORIES INCLUDE

Music:

Best new band

Best new solo artist

Best music video

Best album

Best single

Culture:

Ultimate indieBerliner (personality)

Most sustainable event

Best music venue

Business:

Most innovative start-up

Most sustainably run independent business

indie Business award

Most impressive business person of the year

….and more.

Follow this link to anonymously tell us your nomination, and for what category

(if the form doesn’t work then write to us at noel (at) indieberlin.de)