Bayer Media Lab, in partnership with Google News Iniative and the European Journalism Centre, has launched GNI Startups Lab Europe, a program to boost the production of original news content.

It consists of an intensive six-month program that is designed to help a group of up to 12 early-stage digital news organizations find solid financial footing.

"Journalism has always served to bring communities together and provide valuable information for them. But traditionally, the most influential media have focused on serving the majority, often unintentionally leaving people behind. As a result, entire communities are unable to find quality journalism that reflects their lives and values. Today, it is possible for digital publishers to reach local and niche audiences online with journalism that interests readers and in which they can identify. Nevertheless, we know that achieving financial sustainability as an online news business is often a major challenge," says Media Lab Bayer in a statement, quoted by "Marketeer".

Once the winners are determined, the teams will work with the three organizations to understand what their audiences are and what resources they need, then proceed to create the right marketing strategy, and finally to create a sustainable business model.

The GNI Startups Lab Europe will begin in November. Interested digital news publishers can apply for this program until September 20.