Local journalism plays a critical role in helping communities stay informed, connected, and engaged. Across California, many local news organizations continue to face growing financial and operational challenges at a time when trusted civic information is more important than ever.
A new statewide initiative aims to help strengthen and sustain local civic media throughout California.
The California Civic Media Program, established through the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), has launched with an initial $20 million investment to support local newsrooms across the state. The initiative combines state funding, private investment, and philanthropic partnership to strengthen California’s civic media ecosystem.
Founding support for the program includes partnership from Google, with Governor Gavin Newsom allocating an additional $10 million annually over the next two years to continue the effort. Matching support from Google is expected to bring the total annual investment to approximately $20 million per year moving forward.
The program is administered by the James B. McClatchy Foundation with support from Journalism Funding Partners and guidance from the Civic Media Program Advisory Board, a group of journalism and civic leaders from across California.
As part of this statewide effort, community foundations across California are helping connect local news organizations with information about the opportunity. The League of California Community Foundations has partnered with regional outreach organizations to help ensure both nonprofit and for profit news outlets are aware of the funding opportunity and application process.
The inaugural application window is open from July 6 through August 21, 2026.
Eligible organizations are encouraged to explore the program website, review eligibility requirements, and attend upcoming informational webinars and technical assistance sessions. Upcoming webinars are scheduled for July 7 and August 4.
Key resources available through the program include:
- Program information and application details
- Eligibility quiz
- Program guide and FAQs
- Technical assistance office hours
- Informational webinars
Organizations can learn more and access application resources at California Civic Media Program.
Strong local journalism helps communities better understand local issues, engage in civic life, and stay connected to one another. This new statewide investment reflects growing recognition that local news is essential community infrastructure worthy of long term support.
