Google has announced the first Google Podcasts creator program in partnership with PRX, a non-profit which has “demonstrated a long-time commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion” in the podcasting space. With the partnership, Google hopes to get more “underrepresented voices” into podcasting – according to the web giant, this includes women, people of colour, and those outside of western, urban areas.
The Google Podcast creator program opens up today and will remain open until November 18. After the application window closes, applicants will have to wait until January for the initiative to begin. Those who do become involved will be able to get “valuable expertise” from PRX on running a successful podcast.
Explaining what participants will receive if they post a successful application, Zack Reneau-Wedeen, Product Manager, Google Podcasts, said:
“The Google Podcasts creator program is focused on three main pillars: empowering and training underrepresented voices through an accelerator program, educating a global community with free tools, and showcasing participants’ work as a model for others. PRX, alongside a global advisory committee, will select teams to receive mentorship, seed funding, and an intensive 20-week training. Applications will be accepted from around the globe.”
For those who don’t want to apply, or are not ready to apply but want tips to develop their work, PRX will develop a series designed to be a "podcasting 101" based on what it learns from the creator program.
If you would like to learn more and apply for the program be sure to head to the program website.