The American Journalism Project has announced a $400,000 grant from the Ford Foundation to help expand local news innovation and strengthen the long-term sustainability of independent journalism in the United States. This renewed investment reflects a shared commitment to the critical role local news plays in supporting democracy and strong communities. The funding comes under Ford’s Creativity and Free Expression initiative, which emphasizes advancing media equity by ensuring that all people have access to reliable news and the ability to participate in its creation.
Since its founding in 2019, the American Journalism Project has raised over $225 million to support and rebuild local journalism, including more than $68 million in local philanthropy for new initiatives. The organization currently supports 50 nonprofit newsrooms across 36 states, helping them deliver essential reporting that serves community needs while also building sustainable revenue models and expanding their teams.
CEO Sarabeth Berman expressed gratitude for the Ford Foundation’s continued partnership, noting its long-standing leadership in advancing equity and inclusion in journalism. She emphasized that the grant will enable the American Journalism Project to extend its reach to more communities and provide the infrastructure required for long-term success.
The Ford Foundation highlighted the importance of journalism that is rooted in local voices, civic connection, and lived experiences. By investing in the sustainability of community-centered newsrooms, the Foundation aims to help build a stronger ecosystem for independent media.
This new grant underscores the growing momentum behind nonprofit local journalism and the role of philanthropy in ensuring communities have access to trusted, responsive, and resilient sources of information.
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