In 2023, MDF launched the Local Media Relaunch Initiative program, which involves 15 media from 11 regions of Ukraine, including Kyiv, Sumy, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Odesa oblasts.
The program’s goal is to provide Ukrainians in frontline and de-occupied regions with access to balanced and verified information. It also empowers Ukrainian media professionals to continue working in their regions without relying on the government or oligarchs, enabling them to influence local processes by creating quality content.
As part of the program, participants receive:
- A training program tailored to the specific needs of newsroom;
- An individualized approach from the MDF’s team, taking into account each outlet’s values, history, region, and circumstances;
- Mentorship from experienced professionals who will assist in overcoming challenges during the launch or relaunch of the media;
- Financial support for the media launch and relaunch;
- Access to resources to implement their own ideas;
- Support in efforts to foster and strengthen democracy in Ukraine.
Over the program, MDF has helped launch or relaunch 15 websites. Together with experienced art directors Margarita Garyazha and Kateryna Starovoitova, MDF developed 15 unique brand identities to help editorial teams to increase the audiences.
