Discover why the International Press Institute (IPI) Local News Accelerator 2025 is a game-changer for independent, community-focused newsrooms worldwide. This is your last chance to join a fully supported, four-month, zero-cost program designed to transform, equip, and future-proof your editorial and business model. If you’re ready to unlock the full potential of local journalism—connecting deeper with audiences, diversifying revenue streams, and embracing digital innovation—this is your moment.
Now in its third edition, the Accelerator combines personalized advisory services, practical training, and a global peer network to help local news organizations scale sustainably. With program activities tailored to each newsroom’s specific needs—ranging from audience research to multimedia storytelling to revenue generation—your team will emerge more resilient, impactful, and ready to thrive in today’s fast-changing media landscape. This unique mentorship-driven experience is designed to drive measurable results in audience growth, revenue, and editorial quality.
Through expert coaching, interactive workshops, and peer collaboration, this Accelerator delivers the tools, insights, and networks needed to elevate your newsroom. Participants are matched with seasoned professionals, receive intensive training on cutting-edge formats (like audio, video, and newsletters), and develop robust business models to ensure long-term viability. This high-impact opportunity is urgent and time-sensitive—applications end soon. Don’t miss your chance to lead your newsroom into a stronger, more sustainable future.
In today’s fast-evolving media environment, local journalism is critical—yet it faces intense pressure from technology shifts, shrinking revenues, and audience fragmentation. IPI’s Accelerator tackles these challenges head-on with a structured, holistic approach that blends:
Expert guidance: Each participant receives one-on-one mentorship from seasoned professionals.
Targeted training: Modules cover audience segmentation, strategic planning, multimedia production, and monetization.
Data-backed decisions: A strong emphasis on understanding audience behavior to influence editorial and business strategies.
Peer collaboration: Connect with global peers facing similar challenges—share successes, troubleshoot solutions.
Participants walk away not just inspired, but equipped with actionable roadmaps, network connections, and tools that generate real impact—think improved subscriber growth, streamlined operations, and stronger community relationships.
Name of Organizer
International Press Institute (IPI)

Requirement/Eligibility
To be selected for this powerful, transformation-driven program, your newsroom must meet the following criteria:
1. Be a legally registered media organization in any country.
2. Serve a distinct local audience, producing original, community-focused journalism.
3. Demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical journalism and the defense of press freedom.
4. Have at least two dedicated team members ready to commit ~4 hours weekly over the four-month span.
5. Present a data-driven business case with documented knowledge of your market and audience.
6. Show willingness to innovate, adopt new storytelling formats, tools, and platforms.
7. Possess a clear vision for growth, adaptation, and long-term sustainability.
8. Submit a proposal outlining a specific newsroom challenge and a realistic, scalable solution.
Duration
A four-month immersive program starting in mid-to-late 2025. The format includes:
Month 1: In-depth diagnostics and needs assessment to identify priority areas and define customized roadmaps.
Months 2–4: Focused activities—such as audience research, strategic planning, multimedia content development, and revenue strategies—and ongoing expert coaching.
Team members will engage in weekly sessions, combining workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and peer-learning opportunities.
Stipend
This is a non-monetary, zero-cost program—IPI covers all program costs, including training, coaching, and community access.
There is no financial stipend disbursed to participants. Instead, participants gain immense value through:
Bespoke advisory services tailored to their newsroom’s challenges
Access to digital tools and best practices in editorial and business innovation
Global peer network and connection to industry experts
Deadline
24 August 2025
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