Trusted Creator Fellowship
News Creator Corps’ Trusted Creator Fellowship is a short-term program providing partnership and training to U.S.-based information providers who want to level-up their connection to their communities.
As the new trusted voices of our time, content creators have both an outsized influence on shaping public opinion, as well as an outsized responsibility to get the information they are delivering to their audiences right. This training fellowship for information-focused content creators is an intensive program of skill sharing and community building, led by some of the top minds in digital media. Our cohorts are made up of independent creators who provide a service to their community, whether that’s restaurant openings, public health information, parenting discussions, or local stories.
The fellowship teaches tactical skills like fact-checking, sourcing, and interviewing to ensure the creators are disseminating accurate information and connects content creators with news organizations, nonprofits, and other institutions to expand the reach of accurate and trustworthy information.
Who would benefit most from this program?
We’re looking for independent creators who provide a service to their community, whether that’s restaurant openings, public health information, parenting discussions, or local stories. If you create content that informs or connects people, this program will teach you the tactical skills to ensure you are disseminating accurate information.
Creators only need an engaged following on a digital platform (i.e. Instagram, TikTok, Twitch, Substack, YouTube, etc.), and a focus on providing information-based services to a specific community.
The 2025 fellowship class was a diverse group from across the country, spanning focus areas in everything from national politics and local issues to the NBA and travel.
Who would not benefit from this program?
Traditional news reporters and journalists who have learned about fact checking, FOIA requests, interviewing skills, sourcing, and other news reporting skills would likely not benefit from this cohort. We are developing programming for journalists; check out our events page for the latest information.
What should I expect?
Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on December 31, 2025. Applicants will be notified by the end of January.
The cohort will meet virtually once a week from February 23 to April 24, with a weekly posting assignment involving citing sources, engaging with your audience, and collaborating with our publishing partners to expand reach and profile. Class participants will have access to lively discussion forums with program directors and colleagues to brainstorm ideas, troubleshoot questions, and enjoy camaraderie. Creators chosen for this cohort will receive a $5,000 stipend and will be eligible for additional compensation through paid creator programs with NCC news organization, nonprofit, and public relations partners.
Not sure where you fit in? Apply and tell us about what you’re creating.
If you have questions, please email creatorprogram@newscreatorcorps.org.
Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on December 31, 2025