£12 million boost for local journalism across England and Wales
Government launches funding initiative to tackle 'news deserts'
Local journalism across England and Wales is set to receive a financial boost after the government announced a £12 million funding initiative over the next two years.
The Local News Fund is part of 'Amplify: The Local Media Action Plan,' aiming to strengthen the long-term sustainability of local news outlets.
With £6 million allocated for 2026/27 and up to an additional £6 million for 2027/28, the Fund seeks to ensure high-quality local journalism continues to thrive.
The initiative targets 'news deserts' by reviving local news presence in underserved communities, enhancing the role of local media in strengthening communities and social trust.
Local news outlets can apply for grants of up to £125,000, through a competitive process, to innovate and develop digital and sustainable future strategies.
Prospective bidders must demonstrate a track record in providing local news to audiences in England or Wales.
Additional funding opportunities up to £275,000 are available for organisations that build industry-wide infrastructure.
With significant news gaps affecting up to 37 local authority districts, the Fund is proposing £1 million to tackle these 'news deserts' in its second year.
Media Minister Ian Murray MP said:
“Local media is a cornerstone of our civic life and when it declines, communities lose access to accurate information, scrutiny of decision-makers and a vital local voice. That’s why we’re launching the Local News Fund - with up to £12 million available over the next two years, it marks an important step towards securing the future of local media across the UK."
"I encourage local news organisations, publishers and innovators to come forward with ambitious proposals that will help to strengthen local media for the long term, ensuring communities continue to benefit from high-quality, trusted local reporting.”
Polly Curtis, Co-Chair of the Local News Fund Steering Board, said:
“Strong local news creates stronger communities. This £6 million fund is an investment in civic life, democracy and the trusted journalism that helps bring people together."
“We encourage everyone who is working in local news to put forward their most innovative ideas to help build shared resilience for the future for local journalism.”