For those of you working in the digital journalism industry, it’s time to shine and get your hands on some bucks from Google! Google recently awarded media watchdog  IPI (International Press Institute) with nearly R20 million as part of a new project to support digital journalism initiatives in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

The money will sponsor the IPI News Innovation Contest which is aimed at encouraging breakthrough ideas with lasting impact.

Grants will be awarded to non-profit and profit organizations working on digital, including mobile, open-source technology created by journalists and/or for journalists and distributed in the public interest. All projects should fit into three categories: News Platform, Sustainability and Training

So basically, they’re looking for fresh and innovative ways to promote accessible online communication and information, journalistic collaboration and unbiased free press.

In this time of global change and conflict, free flows of information have never been more important, said Alison McKenzie, Acting Director of the IPI.  A free press empowers people, and a thriving, independent, innovative news industry is vital to any country’s development. We are proud to play our part in fostering innovation to ensure that the news continues to hold up a mirror to the societies it is meant to serve.

That said, it will probably make digital journalists think twice before hitting the “publish” tab on anything vaguely negative relating to Brand Google.

Applicants can apply at www.ipinewscontest.org

[ Source: freemedia ]