Picture this: 30 media leaders determined to find solutions to the crisis facing today’s newspapers. They are gathered at Poynter. They are talking about bold and creative things they are doing to build readership and revenue in print and online. And they’re sharing what they know so everyone benefits – now.

That’s what we’re putting together at Poynter July 12-15. It’s the Big Ideas/Best Practices conference. Those selected for this event will pay no tuition and have their travel subsidized, thanks to a generous grant from the McCormick Foundation. The best way to be selected is to have a Big Idea worth sharing.

What kind of Big Ideas are we looking for?
We’re looking for newspapers and newspaper Web sites that have developed new products, new processes or new projects – big Ideas that are good for journalism and good for business. To be clear, your idea must be something you have done or are currently doing – and are willing to share.

Who’s eligible to apply?
Managers from any part of a print or online news organization: newsroom, technology, advertising or marketing. If you’ve led the initiative, you’re eligible to apply. We'll pick the 30 applications that together represent the most diverse combination of ideas and experiences.

How do I apply?
PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
Click the “Apply Now” button on this page and fill out the application.
Where it asks you for an ESSAY OF INTEREST, please write briefly about these 5 areas:
• Your Big Idea – what it is and why it is innovative.
• Why your Big Idea is good for journalism
• Why your Big Idea is good for business
• Your role as a leader in the effort
• Your boss’s support for this application
If I’m selected, what’s paid for?
Poynter is charging no tuition for this program: your Big Idea is your ticket in. Our McCormick grant allows us to cover your:
• Air fare (up to $350)
• Three nights at the conference hotel
• Conference meals during the program

Have a question? Please contact Program Coordinator Sam Metz at smetz@poynter.org.