Google Boosts Local News with $20 Million in Funding
Google is investing $20 million in the Local News Funding initiative, aiming to support small and medium-sized local news organizations. This funding focuses on innovation in local journalism and lasting business models. The initiative recognizes the critical role local news plays in informing communities and holding local institutions accountable.
The funding will be distributed through two main tracks: innovation and sustainability. the innovation track supports projects that experiment with new storytelling techniques, audience engagement strategies, and revenue streams. The sustainability track provides resources to help news organizations build more resilient business models, including diversifying revenue and improving operational efficiency.
This investment comes at a crucial time for local news. Many local news organizations have faced meaningful financial challenges in recent years, leading to newsroom closures and reduced coverage. The decline of local news has been linked to decreased civic engagement and increased polarization. Google’s initiative seeks to reverse this trend by empowering local news organizations to thrive.
Eligible organizations include those that produce original, public-service journalism focused on local communities. Priority will be given to organizations serving historically underserved communities and those demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Google isn’t just providing financial support. The initiative also offers resources like training, mentorship, and access to Google’s technology and expertise. This holistic approach aims to build the capacity of local news organizations to adapt and succeed in the digital age.
The funding builds on Google’s previous investments in local news, including the Google News Initiative and the Local Journalism Partnership. These efforts demonstrate Google’s commitment to supporting a healthy and vibrant local news ecosystem.
News organizations interested in applying for funding can find more facts and application details on the Google News Initiative website.