Frequently Asked Questions

A: Up to 20 independent news creators or digital natives will be selected.

A: The program will be almost entirely online, with a in-person Showcase event in Toronto.

The optional Showcase event brings together participants from CJF NextGen and ENV programs, as well as various Google programs. It may also spotlight YouTube creators, Emerging News Voices research, program success stories, and selected case studies.

A: August 14, 2026 11:59 p.m. EST.

A: The program starts late August.

A: Six months.

A: This is a professional training and capacity-building opportunity, intended to support you in taking your news organization from fledgling to fully operational. Participants are expected to run their news organizations while completing the program. The availability requirements are as follows: Availability to participate in weekly virtual workshops (approx. 1-2 hours/week) and mentorship sessions (approx. 1-2  hours/month).

A: This program is offered at no cost to accepted participants.

Upon successful completion of the six-month program, participants will be eligible for up to $5,000 in support to implement projects that grow audiences, diversify revenue, or integrate AI products and other digital tools into their workflows.

Implementation funding cannot be used to support editorial or reporting projects.

A: Yes, Canadian citizens living abroad are eligible to apply. Your proposed news organization or content creation should either focus on Canadian stories, communities, or issues, OR cover international news and issues of particular interest to Canadian audiences.