For years, the story of local news has been one of loss — buyouts, layoffs, and shuttered newsrooms that have left communities disconnected and ill-informed. While no one can deny the challenges, we cannot lose sight of the momentum underway to rebuild local news. Across the country, communities are reclaiming journalism as a public good.

This rebirth hasn’t happened by chance. It’s the result of deliberate investments in sustainable models, innovative approaches to revenue, and the relentless commitment of journalists and local leaders. For more, here is a prediction for the New Year that I wrote for Nieman Lab. 

In this Year in Review, you’ll read about the meaningful strides we’ve made this year. The American Journalism Project’s portfolio is now 50 organizations strong. Our investments and support are equipping nonprofit newsrooms to build strong, diversified revenue streams, expand into new communities, and deliver powerful journalism. 2025 will be a year to accelerate. Together, we’re proving what’s possible when we invest in a free and thriving local press. 

By the numbers