Stay up-to-date on the latest news, trends and perspectives in media and philanthropy.

During our latest Safeguarding Media and Journalism meeting, we discussed the complex questions funders face about what is—and isn’t—permissible when supporting media and journalism in today’s shifting legal and policy landscape. We heard from Maya Raghu—Director of the Protecting and Advancing Diversity Equity, and Inclusion Initiative at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law—who offered guidance on funding initiatives related to DEI and Abby Levine—Associate General Counsel and Senior Policy Counsel at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation—who offered guidance on funding advocacy efforts.  … Read More

Throughout the first half of this year, Media Impact Funders and our members have focused a tremendous amount of our attention to the myriad ways in which media and journalism are contending with challenges from the new administration. And so it made sense for us to devote our annual Media Impact Forum this year to the subject of Safeguarding Media and Journalism. And nowhere better to do this than the National Constitution Center, here in Philadelphia, at a moment when we are seeing increasing attacks on press freedom and attempts to cut federal funding for public media. It was great to return to the National Constitution Center, where we held our first Media Impact Forum way back in 2012. We always appreciate the warm welcome we receive from the NCC staff and reflect upon the values it represents, especially the prominent place of the First Amendment among all elements of the Constitution. Right from the opening of our program, we heard a powerful call to action from Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Maria Ressa, author of the best-selling book “How To Stand Up To A Dictator” and subject of the award winning… Read More

The media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. Influencers aren’t just trendsetters anymore; they’re newsmakers who are reshaping how we consume and interpret information. With nearly 40% of young adults turning to influencers to make sense of current events, the lines between journalism, commentary, and influencer are blurring. How news is consumed and how stories are told represents a fundamental shift that is challenging the philanthropic community to confront a critical question: How can we ensure a future with truth-telling and a shared understanding of the world? Our 2025 Media Impact Forum addressed these dynamics and the implications of how audiences consume content on journalism, truth, and democracy. During our daylong showcase, we showcased the research, storytellers and projects that are redefining the way audiences engage with news and media. Below, you’ll find recordings of each session in chronological order so that you can watch any portion of the day. Bridging Impact: Nonprofits, Creators, and the Future of Digital Engagement Ashwath Narayanan, CEO of Social Currant, examines how nonprofits can harness the power of creator partnerships to reach and engage diverse audiences. This session spotlights actionable strategies and insights into navigating the rapidly evolving social… Read More

We explored the current state of disability representation in media and why it is crucial to address the persistent lack of inclusivity and support for people with disabilities. This representation matters because it shapes public perception and opportunities, yet individuals with disabilities often face barriers to equitable participation and portrayal. The panelists provided actionable insights into how the funding community can play a pivotal role in promoting accessibility initiatives across the industry. From supporting career development for filmmakers with disabilities, championing accessible production practices, covering physical accessibility for in-person exhibitions like festivals and theaters and funding accessibility assets for media that is made. This session offered a comprehensive look at the various ways funders can drive positive change. Watch the compelling discussion that explores the need for funders to advance accessibility in media and film.   We heard from: Cassidy Dimon, Executive Director, FWD-Doc Keisha Knight, Director, IDA Funds and Advocacy, International Documentary Association Richie Seigel, Co-Founder & President, Inevitable Foundation Carrie Lozano, President and CEO, ITVS (moderator) Resources shared during the Session: https://www.fwd-doc.org/toolkit https://www.indievisibleentertainment.com/production-accessibility-coordinators https://www.fullspectrumfeatures.com/access-reframed Scorecard Impact Report: https://www.fwd-doc.org/accessibility-scorecard-impact-report-2023 Here is the report that states that 1 penny of every 10 dollars foes to… Read More