The local news media are a vital part of our democracy, informing citizens about events that affect their lives, fostering community identity and connections, and helping to keep governments accountable. Yet as the number of local news outlets shrinks, communities that once had multiple options now face a loss of critical information about their government and their environment. This loss can lead to a decrease in civic engagement, political polarization, and a lack of accountability by elected officials.
Many local news outlets are still struggling to find sustainable business models amid declining advertising revenue. Some are turning to philanthropic funding as one pillar of a diverse revenue strategy, including subscriptions and events. Others are partnering with larger organizations to tell in-depth, investigative stories and reach wider audiences. Still other entrepreneurs are experimenting with new ways to provide local news, including for-profit and nonprofit ventures as well as hybrid models.
Filling the Local News Void
Many small towns and rural areas have become “news deserts” — places that no longer have access to local news. Since 2004, hundreds of local newspapers have shut down, and countless more have shrunk to a point where they no longer provide substantial coverage (often called “ghost papers”). Despite these challenges, a range of entrepreneurs – from journalists at television stations to founders of digital sites – are exploring promising new business models and trying to restore a sense of journalism that serves the public interest.