Launching and sustaining nonprofit newsrooms is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen independent journalism and rebuild local news ecosystems. Even mission-driven projects encounter challenges in securing funding, achieving growth and maintaining long-term sustainability.
To help journalists, communicators and media innovators navigate these challenges, the Knight Center for Journalism in the Americas is offering a free online course, “Launching Nonprofit Newsrooms: Practical Strategies for Funding and Growth,” running from Oct. 27 to Nov. 23, 2025.
Taught by Brant Houston and Sue Cross, two leading experts in nonprofit journalism, the course provides practical guidance for anyone seeking to launch or expand a nonprofit newsroom. Over the course of four weeks, participants will explore essential steps to identify community needs, develop sustainable revenue models and manage the business side of journalism, all while staying focused on the mission and impact.
Houston and Cross will share insights drawn from decades of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising and newsroom leadership, supported by real-world examples and case studies.
“Launching Nonprofit Newsrooms” is divided into five modules that build on each other to provide a full roadmap for sustainability:
Participants will also learn from an exceptional lineup of guest speakers with hands-on experience in successful nonprofit newsrooms. Mukhtar Ibrahim, founder of Sahan Journal, shares insights on community-driven journalism and the importance of resilience. Bridget Gallagher provides guidance on securing philanthropic funding. Christiaan Mader of the Louisiana Illuminator and The Current offers strategies for diversifying revenue while keeping the mission at the forefront. Shamus Toomey from Block Club Chicago discusses how his newsroom grew from a small local initiative into one of the most successful nonprofit outlets in the U.S.
The course combines video lectures, readings, case studies and discussion forums, allowing participants to engage with instructors and peers around the world. Instructors will also host optional live sessions, which will be recorded for those who are unable to attend. Because it is asynchronous, participants can complete modules at their own pace during the four weeks. Participants who successfully finish all activities will receive a certificate of completion from the Knight Center.
Sue Cross is a consultant and former executive director of the Institute for Nonprofit News, where she worked closely with hundreds of outlets to expand reach and financial strength. Brant Houston is a veteran journalist and educator who has helped build investigative networks and advised multiple newsroom startups, emphasizing sustainability and collaboration. Together, they bring complementary perspectives on what it takes to start and sustain a mission-driven newsroom in today's world.
“Launching Nonprofit Newsrooms” is open to journalists, editors, communicators and anyone interested in strengthening public-interest journalism through nonprofit models.
Registration is now open at journalismcourses.org!
Join this global community of media innovators to design a newsroom that serves its audience, secures lasting support and grows with purpose.
