The New England Newspaper & Press Association is inviting freelance journalists, independent writers, and newsroom professionals across New England to share information about their experience, interests, and availability as part of a new initiative to strengthen connections between freelancers and newsrooms.
As the local news landscape continues to evolve, many freelancers are navigating a mix of opportunities, challenges, and changing expectations around how they work and where their reporting appears. Through this effort, NENPA is gathering input directly from freelancers to better understand areas of expertise, the types of assignments they are seeking, their availability, and their expectations around compensation and working relationships.
The information collected will help inform the development of a centralized freelancer network designed to connect journalists with editors and publishers across the region in a more consistent and effective way. By building this resource with direct input from freelancers, NENPA aims to ensure that it reflects the needs and priorities of the journalists it is designed to support.
Freelancers are encouraged to complete a short survey, which takes approximately 5–7 minutes. In addition to questions about coverage areas, experience, and rates, the survey also includes optional questions about interest in a potential shared publishing model. This concept would allow journalists to distribute content across multiple outlets, offering an opportunity to expand reach—particularly for those producing recurring columns, newsletters, or feature work.
NENPA is also continuing to gather input from publishers and newsroom leaders about their current coverage needs and staffing challenges. If you have not yet completed the newsroom needs survey, your participation is encouraged. Feedback from publishers will help ensure that the freelancer network is aligned with real-world newsroom needs and supports meaningful, productive connections between journalists and news organizations.
The information gathered through these surveys will guide the development of a more connected and responsive system for linking freelancers with opportunities across New England. While participation does not guarantee assignments, it will play an important role in shaping a network designed to better support both journalists and the newsrooms they serve.
NENPA remains committed to strengthening local journalism across the region, and this initiative represents an important step toward building a more collaborative and sustainable future for freelancers and news organizations alike.