Posted on December 11, 2011
Deadline: January 27, 2012

McCormick Foundation's New Media Women Entrepreneurs Program Offers Funding for Women-Led Projects

J-Lab: The Institute for Interactive Journalism and the McCormick Foundation are seeking to fund four women-led projects that will "rock the world of journalism."

The McCormick New Media Women Entrepreneurs program will fund U.S.-based individuals who have original ideas for new Web sites, mobile news services, or other entrepreneurial initiatives that offer interactive opportunities to engage, inspire, and improve news and information in a geographic community or a community of interest.

Funding is available for start-ups only. Projects that are in early beta (launched since January 27, 2011) may apply.

Projects must launch (at least a live beta) within ten months and must have a plan for continuing after initial funding has ended. Projects may be independent or housed within traditional media. Personal blogs or one-time documentaries will not be funded.

Strong applicants will provide information to help people live their lives or make informed civic choices; adhere to principles of accuracy, truth, and fairness; advance women in the news industry; and show promise of being replicable or scalable. Recipients must agree to post brief weekly blog updates to the New Media Women Web site sharing their process and experience during the development stage.

The program will provide $14,000 in funding to each of four women who have the vision, skills, and experience to launch their new venture. Awardees will receive $12,000 in the first year. If they are able to raise $2,000 through their own efforts, they will receive an additional $2,000 in the second year. The match is designed to encourage women to consider how their ventures can become sustainable. Funds can be used for training or technical support.

There is a $25 fee to apply.

Visit the New Media Women Web site for complete program information and application requirements.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Primary Subject: Journalism/Media
Geographic Funding Area: National

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