Press Forward, the philanthropic coalition dedicated to revitalizing local journalism, announced its first national open call for grants, inviting eligible local news organizations to apply. This announcement has been eagerly awaited by many local news outlets since September.
The initiative, which aims to invest over $500 million into local news over five years, officially launched its grant application process, marking a significant milestone in its mission to support and sustain local journalism across the United States.
At the helm of this initiative is Dale Anglin, who assumed her role as the inaugural Press Forward director on March 11. Anglin's appointment came about six months after the coalition’s initial announcement and four months after the establishment of the first local chapters. As of last week, Press Forward has approximately 21 chapters nationwide.
Anglin brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at the Cleveland Foundation, where she played a crucial role in supporting the startup news outlet Signal Cleveland. Despite her new responsibilities, she continues to serve on Signal Cleveland’s board.
In her first few months on the job, Anglin has been actively engaging with local journalists and funders, traveling to various communities across the country. Her extensive travels have allowed her to understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by local news organizations.
Earlier this month, amid her hectic schedule, Anglin took a moment to discuss her new role and the broader vision for Press Forward. She highlighted the coalition’s commitment to not only provide financial support but also to foster a sustainable ecosystem for local journalism.
“Our goal is to reinvigorate local journalism by providing much-needed financial resources and support,” Anglin explained. “We aim to help local news organizations thrive and adapt in an ever-changing media landscape.”
The open call for grants is a critical step in this direction, offering local news outlets an opportunity to secure funding that can help them innovate, expand their reach, and better serve their communities. Anglin’s background in supporting startup news ventures positions her well to guide Press Forward’s efforts in making a meaningful impact on the local news sector.
As Press Forward embarks on this ambitious journey, the media industry will be watching closely to see how this substantial investment shapes the future of local journalism. The initiative’s success could serve as a model for other philanthropic efforts aimed at bolstering the press and ensuring the public’s access to reliable, local news.
For local news organizations eager to apply, the open call represents a beacon of hope and a potential lifeline in an industry facing significant challenges. With Anglin at the forefront, Press Forward is poised to make a lasting contribution to the vitality and sustainability of local journalism in America.