Funding Opportunity Overview

Press Forward Northern Michigan invites proposals for projects or organizations that strengthen local news operations across rural communities in Northern Michigan. We seek to support efforts that spark innovation, build trust, and/or expand access to local news and information.

Through this funding opportunity, we hope to support small investments in news operations that would make a meaningful difference in the ability of news outlets to do their work. Examples might include: equipment purchase to aid in digital transition, technology or software upgrades, intern support, addressing barriers to attracting new staff, etc.

Grant requests of up to $10,000 will be considered.

    • Nonprofit newsrooms, organizations, academic institutions, and community-based organizations; for profit newsrooms or news organizations; or individual journalists.

    • Projects must serve Northern Michigan with a priority for serving rural communities. 

    • Proposals that demonstrate collaboration are encouraged.

    • Alignment with Press Forward Northern Michigan strategic pillars, with particular focus on News Operations and support for innovative ideas to sustain and expand local news content, especially in underserved, rural communities.

    • Alignment with goals to spark innovation, build trust, and/or expand access to local news and information. 

    • Budget clarity and reasonableness.

    • Plan for evaluation and learning to ensure work is aligned with and advancing PFNM strategic pillars.    

  • Applicants are asked to submit a short application with basic contact information and answers to three questions:

    1. Briefly describe your request and how you would use funds if awarded? (300 words or less)

    2. Briefly describe how funding would help make a meaningful difference in your ability to do your work and positively impact local news in your community. (300 words or less)

    3. If your request is partially funded, how would that affect your plans for this effort

    Applications can’t be saved and completed later, so please be prepared to complete in one session.

    Applications will be available on a rolling basis while funding is available, with first consideration for requests submitted by March 16.

    The Host Committee will review applications in April and may follow-up to request additional information if needed.

Apply for Funding