The MVA Forward program supports independent media outlets around the world to compete more effectively for audiences and revenues, through direct support and funding, as well as partnership and collaboration with a range of media support organizations.
MVA Partners
MVA Forward works with international and regional media support organizations to assist their beneficiaries to access the MVA, and provide support to their partners. MVA Partners are trust authorities for the MVA platform. By approving new independent media users MVA Partners help keep the platform a safe, reliable space.
At the project’s inception, implementing partners Free Press Unlimited, Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD), IREX, SembraMedia and Thomson Reuters Foundation formed the implementation coordination committee, coordinated by Internews. Since then, more partners have steadily joined the initiative as MVA Partners.
Benefits for MVA partners
- Support your media partners to benefit from MVA insights, MVA grants and a hub of ideas and solutions.
- Apply for funding to integrate the MVA into programs or develop solutions.
- Support with training, communications and partner onboarding.
Becoming an MVA Partner
Journalism networks, alliances, media development organizations, independent media funders and investors can become MVA Partners. Prospective partners should currently provide financial and/or technical support, advice and services to multiple independent media outlets in target countries as part of their mission.
Meet our MVA Partners
The MVA is supported by an expanding group of organizations working together to develop the MVA and keep it a safe place for independent media. Read more about our MVA partners below.
Associação de Jornalismo Digital (Ajor) is a Brazilian association that supports independent digital media outlets across the country. Ajor advocates for the interests of digital journalism by providing its members with resources, training, and opportunities for collaboration. The organization focuses on enhancing the sustainability and quality of independent journalism in Brazil, fostering a diverse media landscape that promotes democratic values and informed citizenship.
The Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) is a South African organization that represents and supports small, independent newspapers and publications. AIP provides training, resources, and advocacy to help these publishers remain sustainable and continue to produce diverse, independent content that serves local communities. The organization is instrumental in promoting media pluralism and maintaining the viability of independent voices in South Africa.
The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University fosters the development of independent journalism through its robust educational programs. The college emphasizes ethical journalism, critical thinking, and practical skills, equipping students to support and lead independent media organizations globally. Through its various research centers and outreach programs, the college actively engages in promoting a free press and supporting emerging independent media ventures.
Free Press Unlimited is a global organization based in the Netherlands, dedicated to ensuring that independent news and information are available to people across the world. It provides direct support to local journalists and media organizations in restrictive environments through training, funding, and safety measures. The organization works tirelessly to create an enabling environment for media freedom and to protect journalists from censorship and persecution.
The Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) is a network of media assistance organizations that supports sustainable, independent journalism worldwide. GFMD connects media professionals and advocates, offering them a platform for collaboration and sharing best practices. It also engages in policy advocacy to promote a free, independent, and pluralistic media environment globally.
The International Fund for Public Interest Media (IFPIM) is a global initiative designed to provide financial support to independent media outlets, especially in low- and middle-income countries. IFPIM aims to address the funding crisis that threatens public interest journalism, ensuring that independent media can continue to operate and hold power to account in societies where free expression is under threat.
IREX is an international nonprofit organization that works to strengthen independent media by providing training, resources, and support to journalists and media outlets in over 100 countries. Its programs focus on building the capacity of local media to produce high-quality journalism, promoting media literacy, and ensuring the safety and security of media professionals. IREX is committed to fostering resilient and independent media ecosystems worldwide.
Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC) is an independent media research and policy think tank that seeks to improve the quality of media policymaking and the state of independent media and journalism through research, knowledge sharing and financial support. Research is the organization’s core activity. MJRC conduct research about the impact of media and information policy on society and practice, particularly journalism. Besides projects that the Media and Journalism Research Center generate on their own, the organization partners with think tanks, academics and journalists to conduct joint research projects and investigations.
The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that supports the development and strengthening of democratic institutions worldwide. NED plays a crucial role in fostering independent media by providing grants and technical assistance to local media organizations, journalists, and press freedom advocates in over 90 countries. These grants help promote free and independent journalism in environments where media freedom is under threat. NED’s support is vital for enabling media outlets to operate without government influence, thereby contributing to the transparency and accountability necessary for healthy democracies.
Panos Institute Southern Africa (PSAf) is a regional non-profit, non-governmental organization working on communication development. Panos use innovative methodologies to engage media and other key stakeholders to ensure that their development agenda is shaped and driven by the most affected members of Southern Africa’s communities.
PSAf works in 12 Southern African nations, namely, Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The organization is part of a Global Network of independent and autonomous Panos Institutes based in London, Paris, Canada, South Asia, Eastern Africa, West Africa, and the Caribbean.
SembraMedia is a nonprofit organization that supports independent digital media entrepreneurs in Latin America, Spain, and the United States. It offers training, consulting, and networking opportunities to help these media outlets grow and sustain their operations. SembraMedia focuses on empowering independent journalists and media entrepreneurs to develop sustainable business models, thereby strengthening the diversity and impact of independent media in Spanish-speaking regions.
The Thomson Reuters Foundation is the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, dedicated to promoting socio-economic progress and the rule of law worldwide. Through its media development programs, the foundation supports independent journalism by providing training, mentoring, and funding to journalists and news organizations, particularly in developing countries. The foundation also runs the TrustLaw service, which offers pro bono legal assistance to support independent media and non-profit organizations globally.
