The creator program for independent journalists is an innovation fund that is part of YouTube’s commitment to supporting a thriving digital news ecosystem. The creator program provides support for independent journalists, and, in particular, journalists reporting on current affairs that rely on digital video and emerging technologies. This program offers a series of trainings on YouTube best practices, video production, and entrepreneurship with peers around the world, grants to fuel capabilities, and access to dedicated support from specialists.

Program Overview

This yearlong program provides comprehensive support to independent journalists looking to build a presence and audience on YouTube:

• Grant: Selected participants will receive a grant of $20,000 to $50,000 USD, depending on their country of residence.
• Best practices training: Selected participants will receive training covering a range of topics, including YouTube best practices, video production, and entrepreneurship. YouTube plans to develop and deliver the curriculum in partnership with Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications.
• YouTube specialist support: Selected participants will receive one-on-one coaching and support from a YouTube specialist. These specialists are located around the world and have extensive experience working with newsrooms and creators to build their audiences and businesses on YouTube.

The goal is that journalists complete the program with a strong, practical understanding of video production, content strategy, and building an online audience. At the conclusion of the program, journalists will work with YouTube to compile best practices for independent journalism on YouTube so the learnings from the program can extend to the broader news industry.

Selected Participants

49 partners around the world are currently working closely with YouTube.