About the programme
Since 2021, Fojo Media Institute has run the Media Innovation Programme (MIP) in Zimbabwe, helping media startups produce stronger journalism and build financially sustainable businesses. We are now inviting a new cohort of media houses to apply.
What participants receive
- Strategic guidance from the MIP team
- Tailored coaching from media viability experts
- In-house workshops for your team
- A small equipment grant.
Who can apply
Small and medium-sized media houses in Zimbabwe with 3 to 15 editorial staff, across online, print, television and radio. To be eligible, you must:
- Have been operating for at least one year
- Publish journalistic content regularly (at least weekly)
- Apply through senior management (publisher, editor-in-chief or equivalent) What we are looking for
A clear, practical project that can be completed within 24 months and strengthens both your editorial quality and your financial sustainability. Your project should address one or more of these areas:
- Developing and implementing a digital strategy
- Audience or reader research to improve content and advertising
- Strengthening reporting and editorial standards
- Reaching new or under-served audiences
- Producing and distributing content in new formats on social media
Other areas are welcome if they serve long-term sustainability.
How applications are assessed
Applications are scored against five criteria: clarity and practicality of the project, financial sustainability, editorial quality, audience focus, and organisational readiness. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further review.
How to apply
Complete the online application form. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes and requires a Google account. Submit one application per media house, and have these ready:
- Your organisation details
- A short project idea, including timeline, budget and expected results
- Links to three most recent samples of your published work (within the past 3 months)
- A link to your latest financial summary
- If available, links to your budget, audience research, or a report on a past funded project
Key dates
- Applications open: Monday 9 November 2026
- Applications close: Sunday 22 November 2026 at 23:59 (CAT)
Late applications will not be considered.
Questions: mipzim2026@gmail.com
Click this link to access the application form
