Local Journalism Initiative

📋 Eligible Entities - Canadian media organizations (primary applicants) - News organizations with established editorial operations - Digital media companies producing journalism - Community news outlets - Indigenous media organizations - Must be registered in Canada and have a demonstrable history of journalism production - Non-profit and for-profit media entities both qualify - Organizations must have the capacity to manage journalistic operations and funds ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Non-repayable contribution (not a loan) - Funding Structure: Cost-sharing model where the federal government covers a portion of eligible journalism labor costs - Typical Coverage: Government funding generally covers 50% of eligible journalist salaries/freelance fees (matching requirement applies) - Award Range: Varies by project; typically $25,000–$200,000+ depending on scope and community needs - Duration: Usually project-based funding (6–12 months per cycle) - Matching Requirement: Organizations must secure matching funds or in-kind contributions for the remaining eligible costs - No Repayment Obligation: Funds do not need to be repaid provided milestones are met ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Journalist Salaries: Full-time or part-time journalist positions dedicated to civic journalism - Freelance Journalist Fees: Payments to freelance contributors producing original journalism - Civic Journalism Production: Reporting on local government, community issues, and underserved beats - Editorial Support: Costs directly tied to journalism production (editing, fact-checking oversight) - Technology for News Production: Tools and software essential to journalism workflows (subject to reasonableness) - Training: Professional development for journalists in specialized reporting areas - Note: Funds are restricted to labor and directly-related journalism costs; cannot fund marketing, distribution advertising, or general operating expenses unrelated to journalism creation ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Journalism Focus: All funded positions must produce original civic journalism covering underserved communities - Community Benefit: Projects must demonstrate clear benefit to underrepresented or underserved audiences - Accountability & Reporting: Grantees must