The California Independent News Alliance (CINA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting independent news media in the state, is gearing up for its 2026 Annual Meeting & Conference. The event, set for January 23-24, 2026, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Visalia, aims to strengthen connections among California’s independent news outlets in the face of challenges from larger media conglomerates and tech companies.

CINA serves as a cooperative platform for locally-owned news organizations across California, focusing on promoting the business interests and editorial integrity of its members. The organization emphasizes the importance of collaboration to ensure that independent media voices are represented in local journalism legislation.

“We have seen how our lack of connection and engagement with other independent outlets has left us as islands unto ourselves,” said a CINA representative. “This conference will be a critical opportunity for our members to share their goals and strategies with the board of directors.”

The event is open to voting and non-voting members, as well as their staff and loved ones, with registration fees set at $150. Attendees will enjoy meals and drinks included in their registration, with parking available for $15 per night. Payment is due by January 24, 2026. Checks should be made out to the California Independent News Alliance at their office located at 206 N. Signal St., Suite G, Ojai, CA 93023.

As part of the conference activities, CINA is inviting members to a special “News & Brews” event on January 23 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., sponsored by The Sun-Gazette newspaper. This informal gathering will not only offer free beer and local newspapers but also provide a platform for community engagement, allowing attendees to interact with editorial teams and express their opinions.

“The Sun-Gazette uses this event to increase community access to our editorial team and to attract new readers,” said a representative from the newspaper. “It’s a chance to convert potential readers into subscribers and foster a stronger relationship with our audience.”

For more information, interested participants can contact CINA at 559-909-2996 or via email at info@cina.news, and visit their website at http://www.cina.news.

The 2026 Annual Meeting & Conference promises to be an essential gathering for California’s independent journalism community, fostering unity and resilience in an evolving media landscape.