California Local News Fellowship

February 3, 2026

The California Local News Fellowship has opened applications for its 2026-2028 cohort, a state-funded program designed to strengthen journalism in underserved communities across California. This two-year, full-time paid fellowship will begin in September 2026 and will place early-career journalists with up to five years of experience in newsrooms throughout the state. The program accepts journalists working across various media formats including digital, print, video, audio, photography, and multimedia.

Who is affected

Early-career journalists with up to five years of experience
California newsrooms that will host fellows
Underserved communities in California that will receive enhanced local news coverage
Digital, print, video, audio, photo, and multimedia journalists seeking fellowship opportunities

What action is being taken

The application period is currently open (from February 3 to March 5)
Two optional informational Q&A sessions are being offered with fellowship program staff (February 11 and February 20)
The Fellowship Team is actively recruiting and encouraging networks to share the announcement

Why it matters

This fellowship addresses the critical need for local journalism in underserved California communities by providing structured support and funding for emerging journalists. The two-year, paid nature of the program allows early-career reporters to develop their skills while contributing meaningful coverage to areas that often lack adequate news reporting. By strengthening local journalism infrastructure through state funding, the program helps ensure that underserved communities have access to quality news coverage and accountability reporting.

What's next

Application period closes on Thursday, March 5, 2025
Optional informational sessions scheduled for Wednesday, February 11 at 12 p.m. PST and Friday, February 20 at 3 p.m. PST
Selected fellows will begin their two-year placement in September 2026

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint