A: The initial cohort will consist of up to 20 news organizations.

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

A: October 31, 2025, 11:59 p.m. EST.

A: The program starts November 2025.

A: 12 months.

A: This is a professional growth and development program, intended to support you in taking your news organization from fledgling to fully operational. It is expected that participants will be running 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) during the 6-month intensive phase.

A: This program is offered at no cost to accepted participants. Upon successful completion of the 12-month program and participation in the final Showcase event, candidates will be eligible to receive stipends of up to $10,000 to support:

• Digital development and equipment
• Additional training and certification
• Conference and workshop attendance
• Digital innovation projects
• Community impact initiatives

A: Candidates are eligible to receive an Ambassador stipend of up to $10,000 upon completion of the program (September 2026). The stipend may be used to cover travel and accommodation for the final Showcase event in Toronto.

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.