News from the Field
Stay up to date on the latest news, trends and perspectives in media and philanthropy.
Learn MoreA Critical Moment for Public Media
Last week, Congress passed H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, which cuts $1.1 billion from public media funding, delivering a devastating blow to the institutions that millions of Americans depend on for trusted information, education, and connection. This decision is unthinkable—and unacceptable. Public media has long served as a critical thread in the fabric […]
Announcing MIF’s New Executive Director: Abby Rapoport
Dear Friends, I am thrilled to announce that the Board of Directors has appointed Abby Rapoport as Media Impact Funders’ next executive director. Abby was selected after an expansive national search conducted by Korn Ferry and brings to the role a diverse set of prior experiences as the co-founder of a media start-up, the head […]
Impact Assessment
Since 2013, MIF has provided resources for funders and media producers seeking to build impact strategies and evaluate the outcomes of media projects. Funded by the Rita Allen Foundation, the Wyncote Foundation and the Knight Foundation, our curated collection of resources includes the latest impact tools and original analyses by MIF staff and leaders in the field, a monthly newsletter that highlights current research reports and articles in popular publications, and case studies of highly impactful documentaries and immersive storytelling projects featured in our annual Media Impact Festival.
Research
As a publisher of original research, we partner with foundations and other organizations to produce reports on the field of media funding.
Learn MoreA Snapshot of Global Journalism Funding in 2024
This report, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is a targeted snapshot of the state of global journalism funding today. It is not meant to be comprehensive. Instead, it’s a conversation starter, and we have included questions for discussion at the end. Based on a survey of media funders and conversations with funders […]
Journalism and Philanthropy: Growth, Diversity and Potential Conflicts of Interest
A new study conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago in partnership with Media Impact Funders and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism that examines the role of philanthropy in American journalism found strong growth in support for nonprofit news over the past five years, an increase in funding to for-profit newsrooms, and a growing […]
Journalism Funders Network
In the wake of the 2016 Presidential election, funders across the country are leveraging their substantial influence in policy- and grant-making to reposition quality journalism as the central pillar of American democracy. With consistent threats to news media from the political realm, a lingering public distrust in news media created by the hands of “fake news” purveyors from across the globe, and a tectonic shift in news media consumption from print-based to online, the role of journalism has never been so uncertain nor so deeply vital. As such, the journalism funders network is aimed at strengthening connections among members and giving funders ample opportunities to discuss their current work among peers.
Science Communications Network
Media Impact Funders has launched a multi-year initiative to develop resources and connections to help funders effectively support productive public engagement with science and evidence.
Collaborative Events
To help our peers gain a better understanding of media projects, the power of storytelling through documentary films and the impact they can have on pressing social issues, and the importance of funding media, we will work with you to host a special screening or panel at your conference or event.