The International Academy of Web Television (IAWTV) was founded in 2008 and is devoted to the advancement of the arts and sciences of web television production. In 2009, the IAWTV held the first Streamy Awards ceremony, an annual event created to recognize excellence in web television production. The members of the academy select the nominees and winners for the Streamys. Membership is by invitation only and members represent a cross-section of roles and specialties in web television production.