NPR receives $5.5 million grant to expand journalism network and strengthen local newsrooms

In a significant move to enhance regional journalism, NPR has partnered with the New England News Collaborative (NENC) to establish a regional newsroom aimed at delivering multimedia journalism that fosters community engagement. The NENC, comprising 10 stations across six states from Connecticut to Maine, has already showcased successful collaboration with NPR, covering a range of topics from breaking news to moments of joy. With plans to introduce a visual journalism pilot project funded by a grant from Eric and Wendy Schmidt, the partnership aims to produce ambitious reporting on critical issues such as climate change, health, racial equity, politics, and the economy. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, along with other foundations and donors, supports the NENC, emphasizing the importance of local and regional reporting in creating a more informed public. The $5.5 million grant from philanthropists Eric and Wendy Schmidt will further bolster regional newsrooms, including initiatives in Appalachia and the Mountain West. This investment seeks to address the challenges faced by communities with limited access to local reporting, promoting investigative journalism and expanding multimedia news coverage through collaborations like the one with the NENC. The grant will also fund the growth of NPR's California and Midwest newsrooms, reinforcing the network's commitment to strengthening democracy, protecting human rights, and amplifying underrepresented voices. Wendy Schmidt, a former journalist and president of the Schmidt Family Foundation, underscores the vital role of local journalism in advancing public discourse and fulfilling NPR's mission. The expansion of regional newsrooms is seen as a strategic step towards enhancing coverage and audience engagement, particularly in areas where local news outlets are facing financial constraints and closures. NPR's dedication to rigorous reporting and storytelling resonates with millions of Americans daily, both on traditional platforms and through digital channels. By leveraging partnerships with regional newsrooms and investing in innovative projects like the visual journalism pilot in New England, NPR continues to play a crucial role in shaping the media landscape and promoting informed civic participation. The collaborative efforts between NPR, the NENC, and philanthropic supporters like Eric and Wendy Schmidt exemplify a shared commitment to sustaining quality journalism and serving diverse communities across the country.