Get the scoop: What to know so far about ONA Insights (Oct. 14–15)

Updates on health and safety measures, programming, registration, sponsorships and more for the upcoming conference in Philadelphia

By on August 25, 2021

We are eagerly counting down the 50 days until ONA Insights, happening Oct. 14–15 in Philadelphia. Over the two days, participants will get to contribute to a collaborative learning experience as we explore how journalism organizations are reimagining approaches to audience development, product and work culture while planning for 2022. Registration will open Sept. 1.

We are working through several updates on what you can expect at the conference and will proactively share more details as we confirm them to help you get ready. Let’s dive into what we know so far.

What we know so far

Health and safety: While we’re thrilled to host an in-person event (for the first time since 2019!), we want to assure you that the ONA community’s safety and wellbeing is our top priority. We will implement a comprehensive safety protocol informed by events and public health experts. You can expect requirements for proof of COVID-19 vaccination and masks on site, and we plan to facilitate physical distancing when you’re seated for sessions or standing for networking time.

Refer to the Health and Safety FAQs to learn how we are planning for everyone’s safety. We will update this page with additional details every couple of weeks leading up to the event. The next update will be on Sept. 7. If you have any questions, feedback or concerns, you are welcome to contact us anytime by emailing support@journalists.org.

Programming: This year’s Insights conference will focus on three areas: audience development and metrics; product strategy and development; and reimagining newsroom culture. We’ll dedicate most of the breakout sessions to workshops and other interactive learning formats. There are two ways to participate in the programing: join all events in person in Philadelphia, or access a limited number of sessions online. Check out the programming FAQs for more on how we’re approaching the in-person event and the virtual-only experience.

Registration: As with many of our events, ONA Insights offers a discount on registration for ONA members. Conference passes will be available starting Sept. 1, with three options to choose from:

  • All Access Pass ($325 for members; $400 for non-members): Two days of in-person networking and all 20 participatory sessions and workshops, including exclusive access to Table Talks—always a favorite type of session at ONA events. Plus, online access to streamed featured and sponsored sessions and the opportunity to join watch parties for each in person.
  • All Access Student Pass ($100): Reserved for high school, college and university students, including undergraduate, graduate and associate degree students. The rate is the same for ONA student members and non-members.
  • Virtual-Only Pass ($100): Join the community online for all featured and sponsored sessions, plus livestreams of six of the 20 in-person breakout sessions happening in Philadelphia (one per session block). Participants get to connect via live chats during all broadcasts.

We are also offering three types of scholarships to support participation at ONA Insights for students and new professionals, for digital journalists from communities historically underrepresented in the industry and for caregivers. Applications to those opportunities will open Sept. 1If your organization is interested in sponsoring scholarships, contact Jessica Strelitz, Chief Strategic Partnerships Officer, at jessica@journalists.org.

Sponsorships: ONA is offering limited sponsorship opportunities for this event, with both in-person and virtual benefits. Packages include sponsored sessions, tabletop exhibits, small and targeted networking and meal events, attendee scholarships, and, of course, coffee and tea breaks. We are looking to engage organizations that are excited to connect Insights participants to digital tools for newsrooms, journalism and media trends, emerging technologies and training opportunities. Get the details on how to get involved.

Pending updates

Venue: ONA Insights will take place in downtown Philadelphia. We previously announced the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown as the host venue, but our plans have changed. We are confirming a new venue and will share an update in the next two weeks, including guidance for booking a hotel room if you’re traveling from outside the area.

Sessions schedule: We expect to have a first look at the schedule on the conference website on Sept. 8See a draft overview of how we plan to structure each day.


The Online News Association was founded in 1999 as a forum for digital news pioneers to collaborate on common challenges and encourage the highest journalistic standards. Become an ONA member or make a donation to sustain our mission to inspire and support innovation and excellence in digital journalism.

To learn about the latest training opportunities and resources, subscribe to the ONA Weekly newsletter.

To explore partnerships, promotional opportunities and other ways to invest in ONA’s programs and events, contact Chief Strategic Partnerships Officer Jessica Strelitz at jessica@journalists.org.

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Karolle Rabarison

Karolle Rabarison is ONA's Director of Communications. She collaborates across the team to connect the journalism community to emerging tech and leadership training, networking, industry trends, and career development resources.