New York, New York, November 21, 2025
The AP Fund for Journalism has announced over $30 million in donations to bolster local nonprofit newsrooms across the United States. This initiative emphasizes the importance of local coverage and aims to support news organizations facing financial challenges. With contributions from major foundations, such as the Knight Foundation, APFJ plans to back a growing number of state and local news outlets by providing essential resources and editorial guidance, while addressing the crisis of dwindling local news coverage.
New Funding Initiative Aims to Strengthen Local Newsrooms
AP Fund for Journalism Secures $30 Million to Support Local Coverage
New York, New York – The AP Fund for Journalism (APFJ) has made a significant stride in empowering local journalism with the announcement of over $30 million in new donations aimed at supporting state and local nonprofit newsrooms across the United States. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of robust local coverage and highlights the resilience and dedication of journalists striving to keep communities informed.
Launched in 2024, the APFJ serves as a vital resource for local news organizations facing numerous challenges, particularly within areas characterized by financial constraints that limit reporting capacity. By providing essential AP content and necessary support, the fund aims to mitigate the negative impact of dwindling local news resources and foster comprehensive coverage in underserved communities.
Major Contributions and Future Aspirations
One of the standout features of this funding initiative is the generous commitment from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, which contributed $25 million to APFJ, alongside additional donations from the Lilly Endowment Inc. and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. These contributions will enable the fund to expand its reach, supporting a projected total of 100 state and local newsrooms by the end of 2026, with plans to increase that number to 300 by 2028.
Program Impact and Resources
The APFJ currently supports approximately 50 news organizations, including notable outlets like Mountain State Spotlight and VTDigger in Vermont. Participating newsrooms benefit from access to a wealth of AP stories, photos, and data, allowing them to concentrate on original reporting that matters to their communities. Additionally, the program provides editorial guidance, assisting local journalists in addressing broader issues and preparing for upcoming AP coverage, thereby enhancing their storytelling capabilities.
Combating the Local News Crisis
The expansion of the APFJ’s initiative arrives at a decisive moment when many local news outlets are grappling with financial vulnerabilities, leading to a concerning rise in “news deserts” where reliable information is scarce. By delivering crucial resources and hands-on support, the APFJ aims to reinforce local journalism’s foundation, ensuring communities continue to receive timely and trustworthy news, which is essential for informed public discourse.
Commitment to Public Service Journalism
The AP Fund for Journalism embodies a commitment to public service journalism, seeking to ensure that quality information is accessible across all regions of the United States. Established to counteract the decline in local news coverage, the fund’s mission is to sustain and grow public service journalism while fostering an informed citizenry.
Conclusion
The recent influx of funding into the AP Fund for Journalism represents a proactive approach to revitalizing local journalism. As this initiative unfolds, communities across the nation, including here in San Antonio, will benefit from the enhanced access to reliable information that is vital to democratic engagement and civic responsibility. Supporting local journalism not only fosters informed communities but also empowers local entrepreneurs and helps drive economic growth. Readers are encouraged to stay connected to the developments in their local news landscape and support their favorite news outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AP Fund for Journalism?
The AP Fund for Journalism is a charitable organization established by The Associated Press in 2024 to support public service journalism and make it accessible to state and local news organizations in the U.S. Its mission is to sustain and grow public service journalism, ensuring widespread access to reliable, nonpartisan, and fact-based news and information in underserved areas.
How much funding has the AP Fund for Journalism received?
The AP Fund for Journalism has secured over $30 million in new donations to significantly enhance its program that provides Associated Press (AP) content and resources to state and local nonprofit newsrooms across the United States.
Which organizations have contributed to the AP Fund for Journalism?
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has committed $25 million to the fund, with additional support from Lilly Endowment Inc. and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
How many newsrooms does the AP Fund for Journalism plan to support?
With the additional funding, the AP Fund for Journalism plans to support a total of 100 state and local newsrooms by the end of 2026, and 300 by 2028.
What support does the AP Fund for Journalism provide to local newsrooms?
Participating newsrooms receive AP stories, photos, and data, enabling them to focus on original reporting. The program also offers editorial guidance to help localize broader issues and prepare for upcoming AP coverage.
Why is the AP Fund for Journalism expanding its program?
The expansion aims to address the challenges faced by local news organizations, including financial pressures leading to a decline in coverage and the emergence of “news deserts.” By providing essential resources and support, the AP Fund for Journalism seeks to strengthen local journalism and ensure communities have access to reliable and timely information.
How can I support the AP Fund for Journalism?
Supporters can contribute through one-time donations, monthly donations, legacy gifts, or corporate giving. More information on how to donate is available on the AP Fund for Journalism’s website.
What is the mission of the AP Fund for Journalism?
The mission of the AP Fund for Journalism is to sustain and grow public service journalism, ensuring widespread access to reliable, nonpartisan, and fact-based news and information in underserved areas.
What is the Associated Press?
The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP remains a trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and provides essential technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.
Key Features of the AP Fund for Journalism Expansion
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding Amount | Over $30 million in new donations |
| Major Contributors | John S. and James L. Knight Foundation ($25 million), Lilly Endowment Inc., John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation |
| Expansion Goals | Support 100 state and local newsrooms by the end of 2026; 300 by 2028 |
| Current Support | Nearly 50 news organizations, including Mountain State Spotlight and VTDigger |
| Provided Resources | AP stories, photos, data, and editorial guidance |
| Mission | Sustain and grow public service journalism, ensuring access to reliable, nonpartisan, and fact-based news in underserved areas |
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