Press Forward Local Chapters

Press Forward Local Chapters is sponsored by Press Forward (local chapters may have open calls). Press Forward is a national initiative to strengthen local news, with local chapters led by local funders that work to ensure communities have access to trusted local news through funding, capacity building, and advocacy.

Becoming a Press Forward Local Chapter | Press Forward Press Forward Local Chapter Learn how to shape the future of local news in your community. Press Forward Locals are funder-led collaboratives dedicated to strengthening local news and information.

Chapters ground Press Forward’s vision in communities across the country — bringing together funders, identifying local needs, aligning resources, and building long-term strategies for a thriving information landscape. Local chapters aren’t just about supporting news; they’re about strengthening entire ecosystems of information. By convening partners and catalyzing investment, they help shape the future of local news and philanthropy.

Who leads local chapters? Press Forward chapters are always funder-led. Chapters are most often guided by: Philanthropy-serving organizations Or combinations of these working in partnership Each brings different strengths, networks, and resources to the table.

Together, they create collective impact in service of local news. Becoming a Local chapter is an in-depth process — but well worth it. The Press Forward team works with interested applicants to assess readiness, connect them with other chapters, and help engage potential partners and board members.

The process, designed to support your success from day one, typically takes about nine months. Intro conversation — Start with a 30-minute call with the Press Forward team. Exploration phase — Discuss goals, the local news landscape, and potential partners.

Application form — When ready to initiate the formal review process, you’ll complete an application. Readiness review — Together, we will evaluate structures, funding commitments, and opportunities. Management Committee approval — Once ready, applications are reviewed and approved at the national level on a quarterly basis.

Frequently Asked Questions Why does local news matter? 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. Why is Press Forward funder-led?

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. What is a Press Forward local chapter?

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.

What do local chapters do? 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.

Besides giving out money, what else do Locals do? Funding is just one piece of the puzzle. The bigger goal is an informed and engaged public.

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. The Press Forward chapter in my community just launched. Will they start funding right away?

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. Is Press Forward only for traditional newspapers? 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.

How can I stay updated or get involved? You can also check out our map to see if there’s a Press Forward chapter in your area. If you’re interested in forming a local chapter, the first step is simply reaching out.

Fill out this brief form, and we’ll follow up to schedule an introductory conversation.