Grantmaking

Overview

The Kind of Work We Fund

We invest in projects that address information gaps in underserved communities, promote civic participation, and bolster local journalism through innovative and sustainable news models.

Grant awards are up to $100,000 per project. New grantees receive 50% of funding upfront, with the remaining 50% distributed after a three-month progress review.

Explore Our Grantee Map →

Focus Areas

Program Priorities & Strategies

Our grantmaking is organized around three core priority areas.

Civic News & Information

High-quality news reporting and dissemination of accurate, timely, verifiable information for New Jersey communities.

The Journalism Pipeline

Training students, professionals, and community members to produce news and civic information as community storytellers.

Civic Engagement

Supporting civic engagement in historically marginalized and underserved communities with limited access to news.

How to Apply

Application Procedures

Our application process is designed to be straightforward and accessible. Here's how it works.

1

Submit a Letter of Interest

Start by submitting a Letter of Interest (LOI) through the Consortium's online portal. LOIs are reviewed within three weeks of submission.

2

Advance to Full Application

Selected applicants are invited to submit a full grant application with detailed project plans, budgets, and partnership documentation.

3

Board Review & Award

The board meets quarterly (March, June, September, December) to review applications and award grants.

Key Deadlines

Letter of Interest

April 1
June 15
September 15
December 15

Grant Application

May 1
August 1
November 1
February 1

501(c)(3) nonprofit status or fiscal sponsor arrangement required
Must establish a partnership with a Consortium member university
Beginning January 1, 2026, media liability insurance is mandatory
Project leaders cannot be serving in or running for public office
Grantees must participate in impact tracking and submit progress and final reports

We look for projects that:

Perform a meaningful public service
Center community information needs
Support diverse and inclusive media
Promote media by, with, and for communities
Provide training and education
Strengthen networks and infrastructure

How much can I apply for?
Maximum grant awards are up to $100,000 per project.

How is funding distributed?
New grantees receive 50% upfront, with the remaining 50% distributed after a three-month progress review.

Do I need a university partnership?
Yes, applicants must establish a partnership with one of the six Consortium member universities.

Can I apply to multiple funding sources?
Yes. Press Forward National, Press Forward New Jersey, and the Consortium represent three separate funding pools; applicants may apply to all three simultaneously.

For more questions, visit our FAQ page.