Zinc Network launches CEMediaTrends, a new annual forum for independent media in Central Europe

The CEMediaTrends conference, held on 4-6 December 2023, was the first of what promises to become a core annual learning and networking event in the calendar for independent media in Central Europe. The event provided an opportunity for digital media outlets in Central Europe to learn and share innovative strategies for building brands and strengthening audience loyalty. It showcased new research by Zinc Network’s Central Europe Media Program (CEMP) into media consumption habits and featured both parallel interactive workshops on current topics in digital journalism and one-on-one “clinics” with experts.

A Central Europe Media Program (CEMP) event, CEMediaTrends was organised by Zinc Network and the Center for Sustainable Media, and was attended by 125 people. Attendees included 73 representatives of media outlets across Central Europe and 52 speakers, facilitators and representatives of donors, funders, and implementers in media development.

The comprehensive three-day event featured a diverse program addressing crucial challenges in content, product, and business development. There were eight interactive, hands-on workshops, insightful panel discussions, and presentations, providing a well-rounded experience for attendees. 

The event, supported by USAID, was organised in collaboration with Google and received valuable support for the attendance of participants from independent media outlets from the Media Development Investment Fund, the Prague Civil Society Center, Civitates, and the America for Bulgaria Foundation, further enhancing the event’s success and impact.

How some participants assessed the CEMediaTrends conference 2023:

“Having a dedicated event for CEE newsrooms was long overdue. Simply the recognition that the region is worthy of a small industry conference is a huge step forward.”

“I got an insight into the operation of good practices of media that are so digitally advanced. I gained a lot of knowledge.”

The agenda for CEMediaTrends 2023 can be accessed here.

The CEMediaTrends event will continue in 2024 and 2025 as an annual event tailored to supporting media outlets – with multi-day workshops preceding the annual networking event with plenaries, debates and presentations. Zinc Network will continue to work with international media development partners to make the event an inclusive annual learning event for independent media in CE, and a key networking event on the calendar of media development practitioners, funders and implementers working in Central Europe.

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