DEADLINE: Maynard Institute's Fire Up Entrepreneurship Program

Introducing: The Fire Up Entrepreneurship Program

The Robert C. Maynard Institute for Journalism Education is launching a pilot cohort to support journalism entrepreneurs as part of the California Propel Local News Initiative, an effort to strengthen the state’s multi-lingual media ecosystem, ensuring long-term sustainability of local public service journalism for underserved localities.

The Fire Up Entrepreneur Program, as part of the Propel Initiative, will train up to 16 people representing eight news organizations in revenue, audience, product and community with a focus on ensuring sustainability. Participants will work with experts in business, audience strategy and other topics.

How it works

As part of Propel, the Maynard Institute is launching two cohorts to support journalism entrepreneurs. This program is focused on helping start-up organizations become more sustainable, though legacy media organizations may apply. The first cohort will convene starting in late July 2026.

A total of eight news organizations serving California audiences will be selected for the Fire Up entrepreneurship program. Each organization must designate a leader authorized to make financial decisions to participate throughout the seven-month program.

Selected organizations will receive a total of $20,000 in staggered payments. The Propel Initiative will cover travel, lodging and food for in-person meetings.

Learn more and apply