New low-cost webinar series helps journalists and news creators launch and grow independent news projects

Launching and managing an independent news project requires more than producing high-quality reporting. Journalists and news creators must also develop sustainable operations, safeguard their work, expand their audience and mentor the next generation. For many, the challenge is not a lack of talent but the absence of a clear roadmap to guide their efforts.

To help journalists, news creators and aspiring news entrepreneurs, the Knight Center and Under the Desk News are offering a new, low-cost webinar series, “News Creator Field Guide: Forging New Paths in Journalism,” running from Feb.18 to March 20, 2026, for just $99.

The series is led by V Spehar, an award-winning digital journalist and creator of Under the Desk News, who has built a following of more than 4.7 million by delivering news with clarity, empathy and wit. V has reported on major political and cultural events, including the 2024 Democratic National Convention and the Paris Olympics for TikTok, and has contributed to outlets such as The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times and NBC News.

This five-session series is designed for journalists and media professionals moving into independent or digital-first media, as well as people from fields like education, science, economics or politics who want to launch a news-focused venture. Participants will gain practical tips for building an independent newsroom, growing across platforms, managing visibility, exploring funding and partnerships and mentoring emerging journalists and news creators. Every session provides actionable insights and practical tools to help you put ideas into practice.

What each session covers

• Webinar 1 – Getting Started as an Independent News Creator (Feb. 18): Launch your news operation, protect your assets, make smart choices in equipment and software, define your perspective and start building an audience.
• Webinar 2 – Being a Public Figure 101 (Feb. 25): Navigate visibility safely, manage online presence, handle cross-platform promotion and understand the dynamics of audience relationships.
• Webinar 3 – Building a Newsroom (March 3): Set up a collaborative newsroom structure, develop sustainable workflows and balance autonomy with teamwork.
• Webinar 4 – Funding, Collaborations & Partnerships (March 11): Evaluate opportunities for paid work and partnerships, understand contracts and leverage recognition to grow your impact.
• Webinar 5 – Mentoring the Next Generation (March 20): Support emerging creators, manage burnout and guide professional growth while sustaining your influence over time.

Each session lasts 90 minutes and includes a live Q&A. Surprise guest speakers will share insights and answer questions. Participants will also receive recordings and additional resources for every session, a certificate of attendance, and access to a forum to connect and network with other journalists and news creators.

Whether you are starting your first news project or looking to strengthen an existing operation, this series will help you create sustainable, audience-focused news ventures while building your professional trajectory.

Register now to reserve your spot and start forging new paths in journalism!