By Dr. Julia Boelle.
With the emergence of a global pandemic and the world’s increased need for local news, independent community news publishers have become more important than ever before.
Yet, they all face the same challenge: sustainability.
Hand in hand with the conference ‘Community Journalism | Building a Sustainable Future’, we are delighted to announce the publication of a funding toolkit, which provides guidance and practical advice on various revenue streams in community journalism.
The resource features, among others, information on online advertising, paywalls, launching a print edition, membership schemes, crowdfunding, grant funding, merchandise, and the recently developed software Ping!.
It is infused with inspirational examples of organisations who have managed to create a sustainable business model out of those revenue streams, such as The Lincolnite, Bedford Independent, Cornwall Reports, NN Journal, South Molton News, Wells Voice, Caerphilly Observer, The Peckham Peculiar, The Dulwich Diverter, The Lewisham Ledger and Salford Star.
Deputy Director of the Independent Community News Network (ICNN), Matt Abbott said, “This toolkit is an invaluable resource for aspiring community journalists and for journalists who already run their own publications.
“It’s full of practical advice, real-world examples, and in-depth case studies that will help launch the next wave of community news start-ups and strengthen the sector.”
The toolkit was produced in collaboration with Professor Karin Wahl Jorgensen (Cardiff University), Emma Meese (C4CJ/ICNN), Matt Abbott (C4CJ/ICNN), John Baron (Ping!), and several ICNN member organisations.
It was made possible by ESRC IAA DTP NPIF ABC and Cardiff University Impact & Engagement funding.
Click the image below to access the toolkit
