Local news covers events, issues and activities that impact a specific geographic community, fostering a sense of connection among residents. Whether through newspapers, radio stations, hyperlocal websites or TV broadcasts, it plays a vital role in keeping citizens informed about their government and addressing their local concerns. Local media is also crucial to sustaining civic engagement, as it provides a platform for public discussion and debate and encourages participation through citizen journalism.
Despite the growing competition from digital platforms, ad revenue declines have put pressure on local news organizations, leading to reduced staff sizes and diminished coverage. To help them thrive, many local news organizations are adopting strategies to reach audiences where they are and engage them with the stories that matter most to them.
For example, a collaboration between a smaller local newsroom and a larger organization can provide the resources needed to tell complex stories in-depth. And philanthropic funding can enable mission-based nonprofit newsrooms to develop their revenue strategies, including advertising and event revenues, while maintaining their commitment to quality reporting.
These strategies can be a powerful force in ensuring that local news continues to serve the needs of communities across America. As we look to the future, we are committed to advancing a movement toward financially sustainable local news through a multifaceted strategy of fund-raising, grantmaking, and advocacy. These funds will enable nonprofit newsrooms to grow their audience and strengthen the broader network of local journalism that serves our democracy.