ProPublica Seeks Applicants for 2026 Investigative Editor Training Program

ProPublica, the renowned nonprofit investigative newsroom, has opened applications for its 2026 Investigative Editor Training Program. This marks the fourth year for the initiative, which aims to cultivate a new generation of investigative editors across the United States. Up to ten news editors will be selected to participate in the yearlong program, designed to address a critical industry need for expanded investigative journalism leadership. The deadline for submissions is Monday, March 30, at 9 a.m. Eastern time.

The program kicks off with an intensive, all-expenses-paid, five-day boot camp in New York from May 31 to June 4, 2026. Participants will engage in courses and panel discussions led by ProPublica's award-winning staff, focusing on conceiving and producing impactful investigative projects. Training also covers managing reporters working with data, documents, and sensitive sources, including whistleblowers and trauma survivors. Following the boot camp, the program continues with virtual education sessions and mentorship from a ProPublica senior editor.

ProPublica's Managing Editor, Ginger Thompson, emphasizes the program's role in ensuring the future of investigative journalism, particularly as other news organizations face contractions. The initiative seeks to broaden the ranks of investigative editors to better reflect the nation's diversity, encouraging applications from journalists of all backgrounds, including women, people of color, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from socioeconomically disadvantaged or rural news organizations. Ideal candidates possess at least five years of journalism experience, strong editing fundamentals, and experience managing teams or complex reporting projects.