The following samples and templates are based on numerous examples generously shared by local newsrooms around the country. Our goal in providing these templates is to help you avoid recreating the wheel and give a jumpstart to news organizations interested in building an events strategy.

Below are two sample budgets, one for a small panel or evening event and another for a larger (1–3 day) conference or ideas festival. Each sample has been adapted to provide a general outline to guide your planning. The finer details and dollar amounts are simply a guide and should be replaced based on your own research on the local event marketplace and your newsroom’s goals.

In addition, we have created a sample marketing timeline and a social media planner to help you manage the outreach and promotion of your events. We have also created a template for a speaker agreement to pay speakers at your events. Nothing in this guide, including the samples linked to below, should be considered legal advice or guidance. You should have your lawyer review any contracts and agreements.

Sample Marketing Timeline: Download

Social Media Outreach Planner: Download

Sample Speaker Agreement: Download