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Business news publisher gives financial backing to Diversity Fund

Emma SmithA business news publisher is to offer financial support and mentoring for a scheme aimed at increasing diversity in journalism.

Insider Inc has been unveiled as the fourth media organisation this year to give its support to the NCTJ’s Journalism Diversity Fund, bringing the total number of backers to 18.

As well as making a financial donation to the JDF, Insider Inc will play a key role in assessing the candidates who seek support from the programme, and in providing mentors and insight opportunities for the scheme’s beneficiaries.

The German-owned company is best known for publishing financial news website Business Insider.

Emma Smith, managing editor at Insider UK, said: “We are extremely proud to sponsor the NCTJ’s Journalism Diversity Fund.

“The JDF has made a career in journalism accessible for over 400 aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds through its bursaries and mentorship scheme.

“We look forward to working with the NCTJ on this incredibly important initiative to continue to improve newsroom diversity in the UK.”

The NCTJ says the number of applications to the scheme soared in the past year, with assistance being offered to 59 disadvantaged people undergoing journalism training.

Will Gore, head of partnerships & projects at the NCTJ, said: “I’m very pleased indeed that Insider Inc has decided to become a contributor to the JDF, and to partner with us in our endeavours to make professional journalism training as accessible as possible.

“Breaking down financial barriers and encouraging people from diverse backgrounds into the news media sector is vital, and it is fantastic to see a growing number of journalism employers joining our mission to do this.

“The JDF has helped hundreds of people over the years, enabling talented would-be journalists get the training they need for the best chance of success.

“As we look to develop the scheme, the support of the industry for the work of the JDF – and for NCTJ qualifications – is more important than ever.”