Seventy-five finalists have been selected in the first ever Canadian Online Publishing Awards. The awards program, produced by Masthead recognizes excellence in online editorial and innovation by Canadian magazine and website publishers.

Over 250 entries were received, representing small to large publishers with magazine websites and online-only websites. Entrants were judged in two divisions: the red division for consumer, custom, religious, and public association websites and the blue division, for business-to-business, professional association, farm, and scholarly websites. Websites competed in ten categories including best design, best blog and best overall website.

All entries in each category were reviewed by an independent judging panel of highly regarded industry professionals and experts. The panels determined the winner and list of finalists in each category, based on their own expertise and criteria.

Winning websites receive a certificate, promotion to 12,000 advertising professionals and media buyers through the Media In Canada e-mail news bulletin, plus additional media and promotion, including coverage on MastheadOnline. All finalists will also be presented with certificates.

The website winners, one in each of up to ten categories in two divisions, will be announced Monday, October 26 at the Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON. The reception, sponsored by GetStock: Canada's new face in stock photography, starts at 4:30p.m. and is open to all. Tickets may be purchased for $10 at the door and includes one drink ticket plus access to the Computer Bar, courtesy of Apple Canada.

For full information on contest rules, and to view the Gallery of Finalists, please visit www.canadianonlinepublishingawards.com.