Impact Startup: Building a Blueprint for Independent Media in Ukraine

In a world where information flows freely and independent media serves as a cornerstone of democracy, Ukraine faces unique challenges. The need for unbiased reporting, free speech, and access to reliable information is vital in a nation striving for peace, inclusivity, and accountable institutions. Volynska Gazeta and the ViLNi program have embarked on a transformative journey to address these challenges and redefine the landscape of independent media in Ukraine.

A Legacy of Truth: Volynska Gazeta

Founded in 2005 by Volodymyr Danyliuk, Volynska Gazeta began as a traditional regional newspaper, a source of local news and stories in the city of Lutsk, Ukraine. Volodymyr Danyliuk, the founder of Volynska Gazeta, has always been a staunch advocate of truth, integrity, and community service. He has always believed in the power of the press to provide a voice to the people and to uphold the values of a free and informed society.

Volodymyr Danyliuk’s dedication to these principles took a new turn when he joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine, risking his life for the country's freedom and security. His selfless service on the front lines inspired his daughter, Tetiana, to continue his mission on another front – the fight for freedom of information and free speech.

In a rapidly changing media landscape, traditional newspapers like Volynska Gazeta faced the challenge of adapting to digitalization and evolving audience expectations. It became evident that to carry forward the legacy of Volynska Gazeta and promote free speech, a fresh vision was necessary. Thus, in 2022, the ViLNi project was born.

The ViLNi project, led by Tetiana, represents a new chapter in the history of Volynska Gazeta. It seeks to harness the power of digital media and innovative storytelling to continue the newspaper's tradition of providing reliable news and serving the community. Tetiana's commitment to her father's values and her determination to promote free speech make her a worthy torchbearer of the Volynska Gazeta legacy.

“I was motivated by my father’s dedication to Ukraine and its freedom. So, I decided to continue his work with the Volynska Gazeta by promoting new vision and free speech”, — Tetiana said.

With the ViLNi project, Tetiana is not only preserving her father's ideals but also adapting them to the modern world, ensuring that the spirit of truth, integrity, and community service endures, even in the face of changing times.

Volynska Gazeta: A Vision for Independent Media

The ViLNi project, short for "Volynska Gazeta," pronounced as "vill-nee," and translated as “Free” represents a groundbreaking initiative to transform a traditional newspaper into a modern, independent media outlet committed to democracy, truth, free speech, the rule of law, and human rights. At its core, ViLNi seeks to create a blueprint for the new kind of independent media that Ukraine needs.

A Unique Content Strategy

Volynska Gazeta's content strategy draws inspiration from the widely acclaimed "Humans of New York" style of storytelling. By sharing the stories of ordinary Ukrainians and highlighting their experiences, hopes, and aspirations, Volynska Gazeta aims to infuse humanity into the discourse surrounding the ongoing conflict. This approach transcends the mere reporting of statistics and offers a deeper, more empathetic understanding of the human impact of the war.

Additionally, Volynska Gazeta embraces principles of solutions journalism, focusing not only on problems but also on the innovative solutions that Ukrainians are pioneering.

“Our approach goes beyond traditional ‘what’s gone wrong’ in journalism — it fosters a sense of hope, rebuilds trust, and reinforces the importance of democracy and progress”, — Tetiana said.

To ensure the relevance and effectiveness of their reporting, Volynska Gazeta explores partnerships with AI data companies to uncover informational patterns and respond dynamically to the evolving needs of their audience.

Digital Transformation

In the near future, Volynska Gazeta will embark on a journey towards cross-media integration and digital transformation. Our strategic plan includes bolstering our digital presence through the introduction of cutting-edge platforms and content delivery methods, such as mobile applications and digital subscription services. Additionally, we have outlined a strategy to offer various content formats, encompassing print articles for the newspaper and digital video or audio content for the website, aimed at engaging diverse reader demographics and ensuring sustained interest in our offerings. Furthermore, we will be expanding our social media presence to connect with a broader audience and foster greater engagement.

A Multifaceted Business Model

Traditional revenue streams, such as subscriptions and ads, have been the backbone of media funding. Volynska Gazeta recognizes the need for financial sustainability and independence in an era of changing media consumption habits. Therefore, it is developing a multi-layered business model that includes crowdsourcing, memberships, sponsorship agreements, native ads, and more.

This innovative approach diversifies income sources, reducing dependency on a single revenue stream and enhancing Volynska Gazeta’s resilience to external pressures. By securing independent funding and expanding their digital presence, Volynska Gazeta is paving the way for the future of independent media in Ukraine.

Community Engagement and Interactive Information Hub

Volynska Gazeta is undertaking a comprehensive initiative to become an engaged and interactive local information hub. Our strategy involves proactive community engagement, website enhancements for reader participation, and valuing community feedback. Collaborations with local organizations and active participation in community events will help us create a stronger, more informed, and connected local community.

Educating the Next Generation

To ensure the sustainability of independent journalism, ViLNi is actively involved in educating and training the next generation of writers and editors. By partnering with universities and developing a comprehensive whitepaper for local publishers, we aim to nurture a pool of talented, independent, and creative individuals who will carry forward the torch of free speech and quality reporting in Ukraine.

Challenges and Solutions

Volynska Gazeta's approach addresses several critical challenges faced by independent media in Ukraine:

1. Censorship and Under-Financing: Many Ukrainian media outlets are either state-owned or controlled by wealthy individuals, limiting their independence. Volynska Gazeta's solution lies in establishing independent financial sources and implementing an innovative, multi-layered business model.

2. Gap in Reporting: There is a significant gap in reporting about Ukraine within the country and internationally. Volynska Gazeta's "Humans of New York" style storytelling bridges this gap by sharing the stories of regular Ukrainians, not just political leaders.

3. Gloom and Doom Reporting: Constant reporting of casualties and destruction can desensitize and discourage audiences. Volynska Gazeta's positive, solutions-oriented reporting offers a ray of hope and encourages optimism about Ukraine's future.

4. International Misconceptions: To combat misconceptions about Ukraine, Volynska Gazeta publishes content in both English and Ukrainian and involves more English-speaking individuals in reporting, including students. This is going to be a separate project which Volynska Gazeta will execute in collaboration with other Western outlets.

Partnership for Progress

Volynska Gazeta's mission is bolstered by collaborations with organizations such as the European Youth4Media Network, The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, and Phineo Startups. As for the last one, Volynska Gazeta applied to its incubator and accelerator program and got positive feedback.

“Besides application forms and questionnaires, we prepared a powerful convincing pitch deck and then received a letter from Phineo Startups’s representatives with a confirmation to take part in the program”, — Tetiana said.

These partnerships provide valuable support, resources, and expertise to further Volynska Gazeta's goals.

The ViLNi project represents a beacon of hope for independent media in Ukraine. By redefining content strategies, diversifying revenue sources, and nurturing the next generation of journalists, Volynska Gazeta is laying the foundation for a new era of journalism committed to democracy, truth, and free speech. With its ambitious goals and innovative approach, Volynska Gazeta is not just a blueprint; it is a driving force for positive change in Ukraine's media landscape.

Currently, Volynska Gazeta is also looking for content collaborations, technical and financial partners, and specialists in SEO, SMM. If you’re interested, write to [email protected] for more details.