Did you know that nearly half of Michigan’s counties and more than 1 million residents have limited access to local news? And did you know that 40% of Michigan’s newspapers have vanished in the past two decades, making our state one of the hardest hit in the country in terms of the loss of local news and journalism jobs?

The crisis in local news is real — and it’s urgent.

That’s why we are supporting the following funding initiatives—

The Michigan Media Innovation Fund will invest in new technologies, sustainable business models, and local startups committed to redefining how local news is created and delivered.
The Michigan Journalism Fund will support reporters, editors, and newsrooms with fellowships, grants, and support to ensure essential coverage doesn’t disappear. Topic-based funders can choose to cover a specific subject (such as health) in line with their missions.
The Michigan Broadcast Journalism Fund will help local radio and television stations enhance their public service journalism, expand local coverage, and embrace digital storytelling. Donate online here.
Press Forward Northern Michigan will catalyze new innovations and ideas and support the building and strengthening of existing infrastructure and newsroom capacity. Donate online here.

Now is the time to act. We're calling on the funding community, media leaders, business partners, and all those who believe in an informed democracy—to join this movement.

OTHER WAYS TO DONATE

The following giving options apply only to the Michigan Media Innovation Fund and Michigan Journalism Fund.

By Check:

Make checks payable to Local Media Foundation and include the fund name on the memo line.

Mail to:
Local Media Foundation
P.O. Box 85015
Chicago, IL 60689-5033

Matching Gift Donations

Ask your employer if they offer matching donations. When applying, specify:

Local Media Foundation (Tax ID: 36‐4427750)
The specific fund (e.g., Michigan Media Innovation Fund)

Donor Advised Funds

Request a distribution from your fund administrator or use their online form. Specify:

Local Media Foundation (Tax ID: 36‐4427750)
The specific fund (e.g., Michigan Journalism Fund)

Stock or electronic bank transfer (ACH)

To donate gifts of stock or make an ACH or similar transfer, please contact Julia Campbell at julia.campbell@localmedia.org.

Questions?
Contact Lindsey Estes, Chief of Staff, Local Media Association
lindsey.estes@localmedia.org.

Addressing the Local News Crisis in Michigan