The mission of the American Journalism Project is to increase resources for local news by investing in the business capacity of digital newsrooms. They aim to help these newsrooms grow sustainably while offering personalized coaching and access to training in best practices, leveraging a venture philanthropy model to provide tailored support based on strategic challenges.
The grant program offered by the American Journalism Project focuses on bolstering local news organizations by enhancing their operational and revenue-generating capabilities. The organization seeks to invest in digital newsrooms, providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to ensure sustainable growth. This includes personalized coaching and training in best practices. The grant aims at addressing the unique strategic challenges each organization faces, with a commitment to improving core organizational areas as outlined in their grantmaking rubric. The approach taken is akin to venture philanthropy, offering bespoke support that goes beyond monetary investment to include guidance on improving various facets of organizational operations and strategy.