Applications are now open for the 2024 International Press Institute (IPI) Local News Accelerator Programme designed to help applicants and their organizations build a financially and editorially sustainable local media business.
Now in its second edition, the Local News Accelerator offers personalized advisory services, cutting-edge tools, and expert guidance to help participants expand their audiences and empower their teams, ultimately growing into engaged, responsive media brands both during and after the programme.
To be eligible, an applicants should be a media organization with no geographic limitations, demonstrating a clear focus on serving local audiences with news tailored to the specific needs of the local community. The organization should show a commitment to producing quality original journalism, adherence to ethical journalism practices, and dedication to press freedom. The applicant should submit a proposal outlining a specific need and solution, noting that the project may change or evolve during the accelerator period.
The media outlet must have a team of at least two individuals willing to commit to accelerator activities throughout the four months, with an estimated time commitment of four hours per week divided between the team of two. The media venture should have a solid business case and an understanding of its audience, backed by audience or market research. Additionally, the medium should demonstrate a willingness to explore and implement new ideas, tools, and technologies to enhance storytelling and audience engagement while learning from experts and each other. Finally, there should be a clear vision for the future of the medium, including plans for growth, expansion, and adaptation.
The accelerator is designed to support local newsrooms that are either getting started or pivoting their business, providing the structure and support needed to identify and deliver solutions that will advance their projects toward financial and editorial sustainability. IPI’s in-house experts will conduct a comprehensive one-on-one needs assessment and provide guidance and personalized advisory services for successful applicants to maximize their benefits from the programme.
Only applications in English received via the Jotform platform by the stated date and time will be considered. Applicants will receive an email confirmation of their submission. Applications close on July 17, 2024.
Applications will be assessed based on the criteria established in the call. Applicants can contact innovation@ipi.media.
For more information and to apply, please visit https://ipi.media/innovation/local-news-accelerator/#form.
