A Guide to Assessing Your Local News Ecosystem
Rooted in Democracy Fund’s theory of change that philanthropy should support healthy local news systems through active listening rather than parachuting in, this toolkit offers funders a clear pathway to getting started.
The guide includes five key steps to help funders: understand news ecosystems, start their own research and conduct media landscapes, translate research into action, and strategize for the right size and number of investments. Backed by four extensive case studies, these steps provide a clear path to funding local news with impact—even for funders new to media.
Use This Guide To:
- Create a plan for your organization to get started in funding local news
- Craft research and media landscape proposals to fit your specific needs
- Review case stories of successful local news systems and their effects on community engagement
Suggested Content:
- Media Grants Data Map
- Guidance on Philanthropic Funding of Media and News
- Pew-Knight Initiative Media Habits
Featured Members:
Colorado Media Project
Source: Democracy Fund