CJF Emerging News Voices Program

Now accepting applications. Program seeks content producers ready to implement innovative distribution tactics and committed to building sustainable, impactful journalism ventures.

The deadline for applications is August 14, 2026, 11:59 p.m. ET

Eligibility Criteria

Independent news creators and lean digital news startups in Canada seeking to expand their reach and diversify audience engagement strategies. Ideal candidates include independent journalists with social media and video platforms, newsletter publishers, podcasters, and news organizations with owned-and-operated websites.

Participants of the 2025 CJF NextGen Creator-Journalists Training Program are not eligible to reapply.

 

Primary Applicants Must Have

  • Canadian permanent residency or citizenship
  • Early-stage or established open web presence as a news creator or digital natives
  • Commitment to expanding reach and diversifying audience engagement strategies
  • Readiness to experiment with new platforms, formats, and distribution methods
  • Dedicated time to participate fully in sessions and complete the assignments

Applicants must propose a project that grows audiences, diversifies revenue, or integrates AI products and other digital tools into their workflows. The project should be substantially completed by January 2027.

 

For more information about the CJF Emerging News Voices Program, contact NewsVoices@cjf-fjc.ca