Learning

INN is committed to helping journalists learn the skills they need to create thriving, sustainable, high-impact journalistic institutions. To that end, we offer a number of education and training programs.

Training events

Many of our members have spent their entire careers producing journalism but have no prior experience running a business. For those who’ve taken on the noble goal of starting their own nonprofit or independent newsroom, INN offers a number of training opportunities throughout the year, both in person and online.

Programs focus on audience development, revenue generation, business and leadership acumen, tech and nonprofit operations, with five ways to access training:

  • Monthly webinars with industry experts or sector leaders on timely business and operational issues

  • Peer Groups: bi-monthly Zoom meetings on topics submitted by INN members to help members brainstorm solutions to common problems and to encourage networking among the group. To submit an idea for a session, email mara@inn.org.

  • INN Technology Office Hours: weekly open advice sessions with INN's technology expert. A new signup form and additional details will be announced in 2021.

  • For business advice Fran Scarlett, INN's Director of Programs and Services and business coach offers office hours as well. Sign up here: INN Box Office hours

  • For fundraising advice, Jeffrey Woolverton, INN's Network Philanthropy Director, provides office hours for any INN member. Sign up here: INN Philanthropy Office Hours
  • Workshop Series: multi-week webinars for deeper skill development with a subject matter expert.

  • Twice annual conferences offering more  in-depth training: INN Days each summer around the Investigative Reporters & Editors Conference and the Fall Business Intensive.

For specific training events and dates, please visit our events calendar.

Online training & resources

INN offers a number of online courses and archived webinars and training materials on our website at learn.inn.org. Anyone can take these courses, which include developing a 100-day plan, creating a media kit, identifying and developing revenue streams, budgeting skills, and more.