The National Press Foundation’s Widening the Pipeline fellowship brings together a cohort of journalists of color from across the country, with 2-7 years of professional experience, representing newsrooms large and small, across all mediums. Fellows are exposed to top sources, new skills and a breadth of vision for their journalism careers. In addition to peer-to-peer support, each is paired with a mentor for monthly 1:1 guidance. All at no cost to the journalists or their newsrooms.

NPF launched the Widening the Pipeline fellowship in 2022 to improve the retention and advancement of diverse journalism talent. Research shows journalists of color comprise only 24% of U.S. newsroom employees and are disproportionately laid off, quit or feel isolated.

The results of the three year-long fellowship cohorts have been deeply encouraging. Many of the program’s 65 alumni have secured pay raises, moved to better jobs or were promoted inside their organizations. Most said that they entered the program burned out or lacking confidence but the support they received reinvigorated their commitment to journalism and their plans to remain in the field.

The fellowship’s leading funder, the Evelyn Y. Davis Foundation, has sunset. New sources of funding are needed to continue the program’s excellent progress and demonstrable success.

Widening the Pipeline

By National Press Foundation, Inc.

Widening the Pipeline

Improving the retention and advancement of diverse newsroom talent through an intensive year-long fellowship