The programme is a response to the challenging environment media operate in, including growing hostility to media freedom, lack of trust in journalism as well as the disruption of media by the digital transformation and economic threats. By stimulating and strengthening a collaborative media innovation ecosystem across Europe, this programme aims to build sustainable media through the innovation process and digital business model transformation.

As a part of MIE 2.0, the Business Innovation Synergizer (BIS) call aims to support media organisations with developed and validated business plans or development strategies. BIS’ overall objective is to improve the business sustainability of professional media and make journalists and media outlets more resilient to any external threat.

The key vehicles of support include grants and business mentoring:

• Grants provide financial support to media organisations, enabling them to invest in their capacities, infrastructure, and innovation. 
• Business mentoring offers personalised guidance and support. It helps beneficiaries develop strategic plans focused on digital growth, explore new revenue streams and innovative modalities of work by applying AI, and navigate challenges in a rapidly changing media landscape. 

As part of the long-term strategy, supported media will:

• Become more resilient against financial and operational challenges, allowing them to continue delivering quality journalism despite political and economic threats;
• Develop sustainable business models that include diversified revenue and innovative audience engagement strategies;
• Be encouraged to integrate innovative approaches, practices, and tools (including AI and digital products) that will enhance operational processes, content production, and business models of supported media and
• Increase trust among their audiences and clients and provide high-quality content and services

Means of support include the combination of:

• Financial support through grants: up to EUR 30,000 per beneficiary. Grants will provide the resources for innovation and empower media outlets to pioneer fresh approaches, engage audiences, and implement new digital products and services.
• Capacity building support through 1-on-1 mentoring, group training, use of e-courses created by Thomson, and regular online/in-person meetings. Topics will range from business and digital solutions, use of AI and advanced technologies.
• Networking and collaborative opportunities. Networking will facilitate knowledge sharing and collective action among media organisations, especially in countries where media freedom is threatened. 

The project’s duration may be up to twelve (12) months in total.