Beyond Print Grants

Beyond Print Grants is sponsored by The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Supports independent local newspapers in reducing reliance on print, accelerating digital sustainability, embracing new distribution platforms, and reaching new and younger audiences.

Apply now for Beyond Print grants - The Lenfest Institute for Journalism Lenfest Institute for Journalism announces $400K Beyond Print grant program Expanded program builds on Lenfest Beyond Print Toolkit with grants, free Advisory Services, a focus on reaching younger audiences, and a Community of Practice for shared learning. The 2023 Beyond Print Convening. Photo by Julianne Lindsey.

The Lenfest Institute for Journalism is accepting applications for the next round of Beyond Print grants, which support independent local newspapers in reducing reliance on print, accelerating digital sustainability, embracing new distribution platforms, and reaching new and younger audiences.

Grant funding will be enhanced by the addition of Lenfest services including a new Beyond Print Community of Practice and a broad array of advisory services available to Community members at no charge. The Institute will award a limited number of grants of up to $50,000 per organization, from a total pool of $400,000. Grant applications are due Monday, Nov.

17, 2025, at 11:59 p. m. EST.

Review the complete grant guidelines and apply here . Launched in 2022, The Lenfest Institute’s Beyond Print Program has served hundreds of independent local newspapers through grants, convenings, and the Beyond Print Toolkit , which provides comprehensive on-demand guidance on transitioning from print to digital revenue and cost structure.

The programming and Toolkit are now being expanded to include guidance on the use of next-generation distribution platforms and news creator partnerships. Beyond Print is supported by the The Andrew & Julie Klingenstein Family Fund.

This year, in addition to the grant program, Beyond Print will expand to include a broader offering of support that includes: Expanded Community of Practice — a free peer-to-peer learning cohort beginning in November, featuring virtual workshops, case studies, and information exchange. Click here to join the Community of Practice .

Free Expert Network Advisory Services — eligible independent local newspapers and Community members may receive complimentary one-on-one consulting support through the Lenfest Expert Network to help shape and execute their business strategies. In-person convening in 2026 —open to all Beyond Print Community members.

“Our Beyond Print program and comprehensive toolkit are about practical, measurable steps that help publishers shift audience habits and revenue from print to digital — and then sharing what works so others can move faster,” said Tristan Loper, Head of National Programs at The Lenfest Institute.

“This year, in addition to grant funding, we’re expanding support through structured peer learning and free expert network consulting so newspapers have the guidance and community they need to succeed as digital businesses.

” Eligible grants and related expert network consulting will focus on subjects covered in the Beyond Print Toolkit , including: Communications Developing clear communication plans for staff, advertisers, and the public to manage a smooth digital transition. Customer Service Enhancing customer support, including training representatives and developing tools to help readers transition to digital products.

Digital Products The creation and enhancement of digital offerings, such as newsletters, podcasts, or platform-native content that is attractive to young consumers (e.g. Meta Reels, TikTok videos, podcasts). Digital Revenue Transitions Generating new income from digital audiences, including developing digital subscriptions, advertising products, and sponsored content.

Events and Other Revenue Streams Leveraging community engagement and events to diversify revenue beyond traditional advertising. Manufacturing and Finance Addressing the financial and logistical aspects of shrinking print operations, including analyzing costs and identifying savings.

Print Products Redefining the role of print, such as reimagining print editions or reducing print frequency and/or geographic footprint to provide unique value (e.g. developing a unique weekend edition delivered by USPS). Print Revenue Transitions Shifting revenue and advertiser relationships from print-specific models to new, sustainable digital-first approaches.

Technology Systems Modernizing technical infrastructure, including migrating content management systems and integrating new and efficient software tools.

Consideration will also be given to grant proposals for novel ideas and experiments that focus on emerging areas of interest for an updated Toolkit: Creator Partnerships Collaborations with independent journalists or content creators to broaden audience reach and explore new revenue sources. Recruiting and Retaining Young Audiences Strategies to attract and engage with younger audiences on new platforms.

Grant applications are due Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, at 11:59 p. m.

EST. Review the complete grant guidelines and apply here . For questions about eligibility or the application process, contact [email protected] .

The Beyond Print Program originally launched in 2022 in partnership with the American Press Institute. The Lenfest Institute provides free tools and resources for local journalism leaders to develop sustainable strategies to serve their communities.