Applications are now open for the Nigeria Media Innovation Program’s (NAMIP’s) Sustainability Challenge. Winners will be awarded up to $50,000 for their project and join NAMIP’s innovation and capacity building program that extends up till 2024.
NAMIP is implemented by Media Development Investment Fund and funded by MacArthur Foundation to accelerate digital innovation and foster new business models for independent media in Nigeria.
The Sustainability Challenge is seeking applications from media organizations focused on resolving or enhancing their “organizational sustainability” by building innovative news and information products that:
- Explore opportunities to reach and connect with broader audiences through digital platforms and technologies; and
- Develop new revenue generation opportunities or sustainable business models.
Successful applicants will benefit from up to $50,000 for their project and have access to a range of capacity building activities, including targeted and bespoke training, one-on-one coaching, as well as joining NAMIP’s supportive community of like-minded organizations.
We encourage applications from existing independent media companies, non-profit media and new ventures who have projects or news products that address one or more of the following focus areas:
Digital native products: Do you employ new and innovative approaches to collecting news and information, and to reporting, storytelling and distribution, that embrace the possibilities of technology?
Reaching rural communities: Are you developing or have developed innovative approaches to reach and empower people outside of major urban areas, and those generally under-served by existing news media?
Technology innovation for distribution: Are you developing or have developed new media technology that distributes local news in a cost-effective and sustainable way?
New Revenue opportunities: Do you explore innovative solutions to revenue challenges that media companies face – how can we open up new revenue streams to make media organizations more sustainable and independent?
Transition to digital: Are you finding and implementing solutions, products or processes that assist legacy media to transform their businesses?
Who are we looking for?
- You could be an existing independent media company, a non-profit or a new venture that is just kicking off.
- We are looking for mission-driven companies and organizations passionate about trying new approaches to local news and information.
- We encourage applicants who don’t have traditional journalism and media backgrounds, particularly from the areas of technology, design and business.
- We also encourage applicants with independent radio (both community and commercial radio) and TV platforms who are developing unique strategies to reach their audiences to apply.
- Note: participants who applied in the first call but were not successful are still eligible to apply again.
The deadline for this funding cycle is midnight on 28th February 2023.
Visit the NAMIP website to find out more or apply here.