- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Native News Online has been chosen to participate in an international program that helps publishers build sustainable news businesses, the Facebook Journalism Project announced Tuesday.
Native News Online will be one of 30 North American media outlets participating in the 2021 Accelerator program, Facebook’s premier business training program for news publishers. The Accelerator is a 9-month program that combines workshops, coaching and grant funding to execute projects using lessons learned during the program.
Accelerator participants from media outlets across North America also form a “community of shared practice,” working together and supporting each other’s progress.
“We are humbled and excited to join with other publishers from around the country in this program to build strong, sustainable media outlets,” said Levi Rickert, editor and publisher of Native News Online.
The 30 publications were selected from nearly 300 applications by Facebook staff, Accelerator coaches and the Local Media Association, which partners on the program. Media outlets were chosen based on their demonstrated impact on their community, commitment to the program’s requirements and readiness to pursue their biggest business opportunities, according to the announcement.
Geographically, the publications represent 16 states, one US territory and three Canadian provinces.
Native News Online is one of two Michigan-based publishers — joining Saginaw-based The Michigan Banner — and the only Indigenous-led publication in this year’s Accelerator program. Indian Country Today was a member of the 2020 Accelerator cohort.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsUS Presidents in Their Own Words Concerning American Indians
Native News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Florida Man Gored by Bison in Yellowstone
Yee Ha'ólníi Doo Receives $1 Million Boost to Expand Critical Home Repair Program for Navajo Families
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Our mission draws from the warrior spirit that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations — the same spirit that drives us to stand guard over tribal rights through relentless investigation and fearless reporting.
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
