Publication: Next City
Topic(s): Urban policy, housing, city planning, transportation, economic justice, local governance
Rate: Reported news stories: $400 flat rate; Commentary / Op-eds (700–1,200 words): $100–$200, depending on scope
Deadline: Rolling
Name of Editor: Aysha (Editor)
Submit Via: Email – aysha@nextcity.org
Guidelines: https://nextcity.org/pitch

Next City is accepting freelance pitches from writers covering equitable urban change. The publication recently updated its pitching guidelines and is actively looking for original, solutions-oriented stories focused on how cities work—and how they can work better.

This opportunity is well-suited for policy writers, housing reporters, urban affairs journalists, and commentary writers with a strong analytical voice and a clear reporting plan.

What They’re Looking For

Next City commissions two main types of work:

1. Reported News Stories ($400)
These are deeply reported pieces focused on city-level issues such as:

• Housing affordability and homelessness
• Urban policy and planning
• Transportation systems
• Economic and social justice
• Local government reforms and civic innovation

Stories should clearly identify the problem, explain why it matters, and explore practical solutions or policy responses.

2. Commentary & Op-Eds ($100–$200)
Opinion-driven or analysis pieces (700–1,200 words) that bring insight, lived experience, or expert perspective to urban issues. Strong framing and relevance to current city debates are essential.

Pitching Requirements

Pitches should be concise and focused, and must include:

• A clear story angle
• Why the story matters now
• Your reporting approach and proposed sources
• Relevant links to previously published work

This is a strong opportunity for freelance writers in Kenya and Africa with experience covering cities, development, governance, or public policy to break into a respected international publication.