What is Press Forward? Who qualifies for grants? What’s required? Why should you register? Deadline: June 12
In a groundbreaking effort, over 57 foundations have united to launch Press Forward, a multi-year national initiative aimed at bolstering philanthropic support for local journalism. With $500 million already secured in funding, the initiative has ambitious goals to strengthen and sustain local news outlets across the country. During a briefing organized by Ethnic Media Services and California Black Media, Dale Robinson Anglin, Director, and Christina Shih, Associate Director of Press Forward, discussed the initiative’s objectives, the first open call for proposals, and the importance of ethnic media participation.
The first round of grant submissions is due by June 12. As Press Forward establishes chapters nationwide, it aims to raise the visibility of local news organizations, helping them secure essential local funding. Media outlets that do not qualify for initial grants are encouraged to create a JustFund account to increase visibility to potential funders.
Keynote speakers Dale Robinson Anglin, Director of Press Forward, and Christina Shih, Associate Director, bring extensive experience in philanthropy. Dale Robinson Anglin has worked with the Cleveland Foundation and the Victoria Foundation in Newark, New Jersey, and holds a Master’s degree from the Goldman School of Public Policy at UC Berkeley. Christina Shih is an innovator in the media sector, with significant experience at the News Revenue Hub in San Diego and NewsMatch. She is also a member of the Asian American Journalism Association and a graduate of its executive leadership program.
Dale Robinson Anglin emphasized the critical role of local journalism in maintaining community cohesion and government accountability. She highlighted the decline in traditional ad revenue and the increased polarization and lack of local understanding resulting from diminished local news coverage. Press Forward aims to address these challenges by galvanizing philanthropic support for local journalism, with a focus on rebuilding it in a more inclusive and effective manner.
Christina Shih added that Press Forward’s strategy includes advocating for local journalism to be seen as a vital sector deserving of philanthropic support, akin to the arts, healthcare, and housing. The initiative is centered on four pillars: equity, infrastructure, policy, and local engagement.
Grant Opportunities:
Christina Shih expanded on the specifics of the grant opportunities available through Press Forward. The first round of funding, aimed at revitalizing local news, will provide grants of approximately $100,000 to at least 100 news organizations. This initiative targets smaller, local news outlets that are at the front lines of their communities, serving as crucial information hubs.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for this grant:
- You must be a local outlet, serving a city, county, neighborhood, or state.
- Your organization can be either for-profit or nonprofit.
- Your annual budget must be under $1 million.
- Your organization must have been operational since at least September of the previous year.
Application Process:
The application process is designed to be straightforward:
- Create a profile on the JustFund portal, which will be visible to Press Forward funders and other potential donors.
- Answer three key questions: Describe the communities you serve, explain what funding would help you accomplish, and tell the story of your work and future goals.
This process not only offers immediate funding opportunities but also serves as a valuable learning experience. Applicants have the chance to meet with a coach to refine their storytelling and gain a better understanding of funders’ expectations. This support aims to simplify the grant application process and equip organizations for future philanthropic opportunities. To apply, visit https://www.pressforward.news/pooled-fund/closing-coverage-gaps/ .
Conclusion:
Press Forward is dedicated to revitalizing local journalism by fostering a diverse and robust news environment that accurately reflects and serves all communities. Through strategic funding and support, it aims to bridge gaps in local news coverage and ensure the sustainability of local media outlets nationwide. The deadline for the first round of grant applications is June 12, marking the beginning of a significant effort to empower local journalism and enhance its impact on democracy.
#PressForward #LocalJournalism #JournalismGrants #Philanthropy #CommunityNews #FundingOpportunities #SupportLocalNews #MediaInnovation #EthnicMedia #GrantApplications
