Deadline: March 18, 2025
Applications are open for the Next Challenge for Media & Journalism 2025. The Next Challenge for Media & Journalism is the largest startup competition open to nonprofit and for-profit media companies in the United States. The annual 16-week challenge promotes groundbreaking ideas and trailblazing startups that will reinvent journalism and media over the coming decade.
As they enter the fourth year of the Next Challenge, they’re searching for bold innovators who don’t just weather the journalism industry’s headwinds – they harness them. They’re looking for startups that leverage cutting-edge technology and AI to transform industry obstacles into opportunities as well as pioneering new business models that will strengthen local journalism across the nation.
Benefits
- In 2025, six prizes totaling $200,000 will be awarded to five early-stage media startups. Each division winner will receive a grant of up to $50,000 and will be eligible for an additional $25,000 Grand Prize.
Eligibility
- Legally incorporated for-profit and non-profit media startups based in the United States of America and U.S. Territories can apply. A venture is considered U.S.-based if it is legally incorporated in the U.S. and if the majority of employees and/or contractors live in the United States.
- Ventures that were founded no more than five years prior to the application deadline (no earlier than March 18, 2020).
- Ventures that have earned less than US$1,000,000 (gross revenue including philanthropic support) in the twelve months ending December 31, 2024. This does not include investment dollars.
- Ventures that have made progress against their concept (e.g., a working prototype, minimum viable product.)
Application
The Next Challenge for Media & Journalism is an unparalleled opportunity for media startups to connect with industry leaders and move their ventures forward. This first round application should take less than an hour to complete in four quick steps:
- Confirm your company is eligible.
- Select the division award you are applying for. Details about what judges are looking for in each division are listed on the Future of Local Journalism, NewsTech, and Open-Source Intelligence division pages.
- Tell them about your startup.
- Provide your contact information.
For more information, visit Next Challenge for Media & Journalism.
