Strong local news and strong communities go hand in hand. Like bike paths and streetlights, trustworthy local information benefits everyone.
That’s why we’re building a stronger northern Michigan through local news.
Reliable local information still exists, but the way we get it has changed. Legacy local outlets have been steadily shrinking for years. In a 2023 survey we found our Northern Michigan region lost about 25% of its reporting and editing positions over three years and there have been more losses since. And they now compete with a patchwork of sources that vary in depth, accuracy, and community connection. Every community feels the impact.
Local news keeps our communities informed, connected, and engaged. It shines a light on important decisions, explains how they affect our daily lives, and makes sure we have the facts we need to participate in civic life. From covering school board decisions to reporting on natural disasters such as the 2025 ice storm, local news helps us understand what’s happening and how to get involved.
Press Forward Northern Michigan is a collaborative, nonpartisan effort bringing together regional leaders. Together, we work to strengthen our Up North region by supporting sustainable models for local news and closing gaps where information is lacking.
What we’re doing
We are conducting surveys to understand our regional news ecosystem and the information needs of those who live here, to inform our work and provide insights for local news organizations as they seek to serve our communities.
We are working to expand local news and information, including for underserved, rural communities, through collaborative efforts. One initial effort is the Northern Michigan Journalism Project, which is bringing together newsrooms across the region to report on stories that help shed light on our shared civic life.
We offer skills training and in-person connection for local reporters, including for emerging journalists.
How you can get involved
There are many ways to help us support local news in Northern Michigan, whether you’re a journalist or a passionate community member, or interested in supporting our work financially.