Becoming a
Press Forward Local Chapter

Local news helps people stay informed, engaged, and connected to their communities. Studies show that when local news is strong, communities are too. People are more likely to vote, hold leaders accountable, and work together across differences.

Press Forward is a network with chapters nationwide, working to strengthen local news so communities stay informed, connected, and engaged.. With more than 40 place-based chapters and over $400 million invested, we support sustainable models, close coverage gaps, and cultivate the local news champions that help ensure everyone has access to reliable information. Together, we can write a new story for local news.

Press Forward was launched by a coalition of funders who believe local news is essential to strong communities. By pooling resources and coordinating strategy, these funders can make larger, more impactful investments in local news ecosystems across the country.

Press Forward local chapters are regional efforts to support and sustain local news. Led by funders, each chapter brings together donors, foundations, and community leaders to raise money, build capacity, and advocate for journalism in their communities. Every chapter is unique, but all are part of a national network working toward shared goals.

Chapters act as local hubs for funding, strategy, and support. They map out local media ecosystems, identify community information needs, and develop grantmaking plans. They also rally new donors — many of whom are investing in journalism for the first time — to treat local news as a vital public good, on par with libraries, public health, and the arts.

Press Forward national supports this work with seed funding, peer connections, and practical resources. Learn more.

Funding is just one piece of the puzzle. The bigger goal is an informed and engaged public.

Chapters support that goal by commissioning research, mapping local media ecosystems, and bringing together local newsrooms and community members. They host thought-provoking events, raise awareness about the importance of local news, and provide tools and training that newsrooms may not otherwise have access to. They’re also part of a robust nationwide network, where chapters share ideas, resources, and lessons to strengthen the movement as a whole.

Chapters must be led by funders or donor collaboratives — groups with experience bringing donors together and raising funds. Community foundations often take the lead, but other models exist, including funder networks, universities, and multi-organization partnerships.

If your foundation is exploring how to invest in local news and is ready to dedicate the time and capacity it takes, starting a local chapter could be a great fit.

Learn how to get started.

Before making investments, Press Forward Locals spend time laying the groundwork. That often includes conducting research, gathering community input, and assessing local information needs. Chapters also work to raise awareness and build a strong base of support. This early work is essential to ensure future grants are strategic, community-informed, and sustainable.

No. Press Forward Locals are designed to grow the pool of funding for local news — not compete with newsrooms for existing dollars.

By bringing in new donors and coordinating local giving, chapters help expand resources for journalism in their communities. That support can go directly to newsrooms or to collaborative projects that individual outlets might not be able to take on alone. The overall goal is to create more opportunities for local news to thrive.

Not at all. Press Forward supports all kinds of local media — regardless of size, format, or profit status. That includes digital outlets, public media, for-profit and nonprofit newsrooms, ethnic media, and more.

While specific grants may have eligibility requirements, the focus is on strengthening the news and information that communities rely on most, wherever and however people access them.

Join our mailing list for updates on Press Forward chapters, funding opportunities, and national developments.

You can also check out our map to see if there’s a Press Forward chapter in your area.