The Next Challenge for Media & Journalism is a national startup competition designed to support innovative ventures that are reshaping journalism and media. Organized by the Glen Nelson Center at American Public Media Group, this annual 16-week challenge is open to both nonprofit and for-profit media startups in the United States. The competition seeks to identify and elevate trailblazing startups that leverage cutting-edge technology and new business models to strengthen local journalism and address critical industry challenges. Now in its fourth year, the 2025 competition aligns with Press Forward, a coalition investing over $500 million to fortify local newsrooms and journalism infrastructure.

A total of six grants amounting to $200,000 will be awarded to five early-stage startups in 2025. Each division winner will receive a grant of up to $50,000, with an additional $25,000 Grand Prize available. The competition features multiple divisions, including awards for startups focused on local journalism, NewsTech solutions, and open-source intelligence in support of local journalism. Additionally, two $12,500 grants will be awarded to finalists demonstrating innovative approaches to media and transparency efforts that build audience trust.

The competition timeline begins with the application opening on February 20, 2025, at the Knight Media Forum in Miami. The application deadline is March 18, 2025, at 12:59 p.m. PT. Round one judging will take place from March 19 to April 14, followed by the announcement of division finalists on April 17. Selected finalists will undergo mentorship and training from April 17 to May 15, with a final submission deadline on May 15. Round two judging will be conducted from May 16 to June 6, leading up to the National Awards Celebration on June 10, 2025, at the Media Impact Forum in Philadelphia.

The Next Challenge prioritizes startups that harness technology and artificial intelligence to navigate journalism’s evolving landscape. The program particularly encourages applications from diverse founders, as evidenced by past winners, 75% of whom have been BIPOC and/or female-led ventures. Since its inception, the Glen Nelson Center has supported over 1,000 startups and hundreds of entrepreneurs through investments, competitions, and accelerator programs.

The application process is designed to be accessible, requiring less than an hour to complete the initial submission. Finalists benefit from industry mentorship and specialized training. Those interested in applying or learning more can visit the official website for further details. Contact addresses for Glen Nelson Center are located in California, Minnesota, and New York, though no specific phone numbers or email addresses are provided on the website.