How to get started with membership vs. subscriptions

Dec 3, 2026

A membership program can build a stronger connection with your audience, turning readers into supporters who help sustain your newsroom. The good news? It doesn't have to be complicated, even with a small team.

Join The Lenfest Institute for Journalism and the NNA for a webinar on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026, at 3 pm ET/2 pm CT.

In this interactive session, you'll get:

  • The fundamentals: Understand what membership is, how it differs from subscriptions and donations, and why it might make sense for your newspaper.
  • Tips for building your program: Learn how to identify potential members, develop a compelling value proposition, determine pricing and benefits, and select the tools needed to get started.
  • How to launch and grow: Get practical advice on making the ask, promoting your program and keeping members engaged.

You'll walk away with a practical, actionable roadmap for launching your membership program.

Register here: https://nna.formstack.com/forms/membership_vs_subscriptions