Target Groups: Local online news portals, independent digital media, small local or regional radio and television stations with an online presence and regional media organisations producing original journalism for local or regional audiences. Small newsrooms, women-led media, outlets publishing in community languages and media covering rural or underserved areas are particularly encouraged to apply. Formal legal registration is not mandatory.
Short Description: IWM Network, in partnership with NarativAI and Thomson Media, will provide 12 local media outlets with free technical assistance, professional AI tools and practical support to strengthen their digital security, audience reach and sustainability. The programme includes a technical and security review of each outlet’s website, support with resolving urgent problems, SEO and AI-search improvements, 12-month access to selected professional AI tools, individual and group mentoring, three online training sessions, an in-person workshop with travel expenses covered and ready-to-use templates covering privacy, digital security and media standards. Support is provided through services, tools, training and mentoring rather than direct grants.
Countries: North Macedonia.
Location: Online, with one in-person workshop.
Duration: 12 months.
Deadline: 16 October 2026.