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APM Launches Sixth Local Journalism Challenge to Boost Community News

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  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 5:56 GMT by Radio Ink
      Locales: Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

American Public Media Launches Sixth Local Journalism Challenge: A Lifeline for Community News

By: Anya Sharma, Staff Writer | February 12, 2026 | 11:15 AM EST

American Public Media (APM) today announced the opening of applications for its sixth Local Journalism Challenge, a vital initiative providing crucial funding and resources to radio stations striving to bolster local news coverage. This comes at a time when local journalism is facing unprecedented pressures, with news deserts expanding across the nation and community voices increasingly silenced.

The Local Journalism Challenge isn't merely about handing out grants; it's a strategic investment in the future of informed citizenship. APM's commitment, now entering its sixth iteration, acknowledges the pivotal role local radio stations play in connecting communities and delivering essential information. The program is specifically designed to help stations not just survive, but thrive in a rapidly changing media landscape, building sustainable news operations that can serve their audiences for years to come.

"We've seen incredible growth and innovation in our past five rounds of the Local Journalism Challenge," said a spokesperson for APM. "We're excited to see what ideas stations bring forward and the impact they'll have on their communities." This statement underscores APM's confidence in the resilience and creativity of local broadcasters and their dedication to serving the public interest.

The Crisis in Local News: Why This Challenge Matters

The decline of local journalism is a well-documented phenomenon. A recent report by the University of North Carolina's Hussman School of Journalism and Media found that over 2,500 local newspapers have closed in the last two decades. This loss of local reporting capacity has far-reaching consequences, leading to decreased civic engagement, reduced accountability of local government, and increased polarization. Without robust local news, communities are less informed about issues directly affecting their lives - from school board decisions and zoning regulations to public health crises and local economic development.

Radio, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, often remains a vital source of local information. However, many stations are struggling to maintain comprehensive news coverage due to dwindling advertising revenue and increased competition from digital media. The Local Journalism Challenge aims to bridge this gap, empowering stations to invest in the personnel, technology, and training needed to deliver high-quality, in-depth local reporting.

What Does Sustainability Look Like?

APM's emphasis on "sustainable" local news operations is significant. The Challenge isn't simply about short-term funding infusions. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate a clear and realistic plan for long-term financial viability. This could include exploring diversified revenue streams, such as digital subscriptions, sponsorships, foundation grants, or collaborative partnerships with other local organizations.

Furthermore, APM is looking for proposals that outline robust community engagement strategies. This means going beyond simply broadcasting news to the community and actively involving citizens in the reporting process. This might involve citizen journalism initiatives, community forums, social media engagement, or partnerships with local schools and universities. The goal is to foster a sense of ownership and participation in the local news ecosystem.

The application process requires stations to detail precisely how they will utilize the funding. Acceptable uses include, but aren't limited to:

• Hiring Local Reporters: Expanding news staffs to cover more beats and provide more in-depth reporting.
• Investing in Technology: Upgrading equipment for news gathering, editing, and distribution (including digital platforms).
• Training and Development: Providing reporters with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a rapidly evolving media environment.
• Community Outreach Programs: Developing initiatives to engage with the local community and gather diverse perspectives.
• Digital Infrastructure: Building or enhancing websites and social media presence to reach a wider audience.

Application Details and Timeline

The application window is open until March 8, 2026. Stations interested in participating are encouraged to visit the APM website ([ https://www.americanpublicmedia.org/local-journalism-challenge/ ]) for detailed eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and frequently asked questions. The website also features success stories from previous Challenge winners, providing valuable insights into best practices and innovative approaches to local journalism.

This initiative represents a beacon of hope for local news organizations across the country. By providing critical support and fostering innovation, APM is helping to ensure that communities continue to have access to the information they need to thrive. The future of local journalism may be uncertain, but with initiatives like the Local Journalism Challenge, there's reason to believe that it can not only survive but flourish.