MDIF’s Amplify Kenya: Capacity-Building Program for Independent Media Innovation Now Accepting Applications 2025

The Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) has officially launched Amplify Kenya, a capacity-building and innovation initiative designed to empower Kenya-based independent media. The program is now accepting applications on a rolling basis and invites proposals from media outlets committed to pioneering new approaches in content delivery, revenue generation, and community engagement.

As Kenya’s media landscape evolves rapidly in the digital age, Amplify Kenya aims to provide the tools, training, and mentorship necessary for independent media to thrive. The program is open to early-stage ventures, digital-first platforms, and established media houses seeking to innovate or diversify their business models. Through Amplify Kenya, MDIF continues its mission to strengthen independent journalism globally by fostering sustainability and innovation in challenging media environments.

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What Is Amplify Kenya?

Amplify Kenya is part of MDIF’s global “Amplify” initiative, which supports independent media companies by offering targeted support in strategy, leadership, revenue innovation, and technology. The program specifically targets independent Kenyan media organizations that are actively working to build sustainable models while staying true to their public-interest journalism mission.

Selected participants will benefit from:

• Capacity building through workshops and training

• One-on-one coaching with media and business experts

• Access to global peer networks from other Amplify programs

• Expert-led sessions on revenue, technology, audience engagement

• Support for experimentation with new platforms and business ideas

These resources aim to help media outlets test innovative products, expand their audience reach, generate revenue, and improve long-term viability in a complex digital ecosystem.

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What Kind of Media Is Amplify Kenya Looking For?

The Amplify Kenya program encourages participation from a broad range of media entities, including:

• Innovative new actors exploring fresh approaches to content or information services

• Digital-first outlets already engaging audiences online

• Traditional media pivoting toward a digital future or launching new revenue lines

• Mission-driven organizations passionate about local journalism and community impact

All applicants must be:

• A registered independent media company or a new venture with a viable product

• Committed to innovative content creation, distribution, or audience engagement

• Focused on building sustainable revenue models

• Interested in peer learning and collaborative growth

Applicants can include media companies developing mobile-first news products, organizations testing alternative revenue models such as memberships, or startups building tools to connect underserved communities with vital information.

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What Will Selected Participants Gain?

Amplify Kenya offers a transformative experience that blends practical tools with strategic vision. Participating media will:

• Receive expert mentorship tailored to their needs

• Access resources to explore new content formats or platforms

• Strengthen operational resilience by developing business models that weather funding shifts or market disruptions

• Gain visibility and credibility through association with MDIF’s respected global network

• Collaborate with peers in a vibrant community committed to public-interest journalism

This initiative goes beyond short-term interventions. Amplify Kenya is designed to seed long-lasting innovation, financial sustainability, and greater impact for independent Kenyan media.

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Rolling Applications – Apply Now

Applications for Amplify Kenya are currently open and accepted on a rolling basis. Interested media organizations are encouraged to apply early, as spaces are limited and will be filled progressively.

Click here to apply now.

Before applying, ensure your organization aligns with MDIF’s definition of independent media and is prepared to engage actively in a collaborative, growth-focused cohort.

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About MDIF

Founded in 1996 and headquartered in New York, the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) is a not-for-profit investment fund supporting independent media in environments where free press is under threat. MDIF provides debt and equity financing, as well as strategic and technical support, to ensure media outlets can continue producing credible, fact-based journalism that serves the public interest.

To date, MDIF has invested over $325.5 million in 154 media businesses across 49 countries, with $118.4 million in assets under management. The organization’s impact spans from helping small investigative outlets in challenging markets to supporting large digital startups shaping national conversations.

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Join the Movement for Independent Journalism

As Kenya and the broader East African region navigate shifting political, economic, and technological environments, Amplify Kenya offers a powerful opportunity for media to reimagine their role, build stronger foundations, and collaborate with peers to inform and empower the public.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this dynamic program.

For more information, visit MDIF’s website.

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For more global opportunities like this, visit the Opportunities for Youth website.