Yahoo UK has been unveiled as a new financial backer to a scheme aimed at increasing diversity in journalism.

The company, owned by Verizon Media, has today been announced as the latest news publisher to become a contributor to the Journalism Diversity Fund.

Yahoo becomes the 15th media organisation to give its backing to the scheme – and the first digital-only news publisher.

In addition to making a financial contribution to the fund, the company will offer opportunities for JDF candidates to gain insights into its editorial operations.

It will also encourage its staff to become involved in the JDF’s mentoring programme.

Nicholas Petche, editor in chief of Yahoo UK, said: “We are really thrilled to be joining forces with the Journalism Diversity Fund.

“As an organisation we have for several years been working hard to help those from diverse backgrounds wanting to get into journalism. Together with the JDF we believe we can now develop that even further.”

The fund, which is administered by the National Council for the Training of Journalists, was able to offer bursaries to 58 aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds in 2020, during its 15th anniversary year.

Overall, the JDF has now supported more than 400 prospective journalists since it was established in 2005.

It is also sponsored by the BBC, Bloomberg, DMG Media, Dow Jones, Financial Times, Google News Initiative, Newsquest, News UK, NLA media access, PA Media, the Printing Charity, Reach Plc, Reuters and Sky.

Will Gore, the NCTJ’s head of partnerships and projects, said: “This is a fantastic way to start another busy year for the Journalism Diversity Fund, and I’m thrilled that Yahoo UK has decided to become a partner in our tried and trusted scheme.

“We know that the pandemic has created myriad challenges for the news media sector.

“It has also presented some of those wishing to enter the industry with additional economic pressures.

“We are determined that the JDF will continue to enable diverse talent to get the professional training and support needed to have the best chance of achieving success in the world of journalism.”