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Applications are currently being accepted for the California Local News Fellowship 2026/2028. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this oopportunity and appy for it.
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Opportunity Details
The California Local News Fellowship (2026–2028) is a state-funded program designed to strengthen local journalism across California by placing early-career reporters and editors in community newsrooms.
Benefits for Newsrooms
Access to talented fellows: Early-career journalists and editors are placed in local newsrooms, bringing fresh energy and perspectives.
Expanded capacity: Fellows help strengthen coverage of local communities, allowing newsrooms to produce more original reporting.
Editorial leadership support: The new editing fellowship pilot provides trained editors, helping newsrooms build stronger leadership pipelines.
Diversity and inclusion: Fellows often represent diverse backgrounds, helping newsrooms better reflect and serve their communities.
State-funded initiative: The program is backed by California, reducing financial burden on participating newsrooms.
Benefits for Fellows
Professional experience: Fellows gain hands-on reporting or editing experience in established newsrooms.
Mentorship and training: Structured support ensures fellows develop skills and confidence in their roles.
Career advancement: The fellowship acts as a launchpad into long-term journalism careers.
Networking opportunities: Fellows connect with peers, editors, and industry leaders across California.
Strong track record of producing original local news coverage for their communities.
Understanding of audience needs and commitment to meeting those information needs.
Adherence to professional journalistic ethics.
Support for diversity and inclusion within their organization.
Clear proposal outlining the fellow’s role and how the newsroom will support them.
Apply for California Local News Fellowship
