Introduction
The local news landscape has undergone profound changes in the last 20 years as both news consumers and producers evolve to the digital news environment. However, in many rural communities across the country, local newsrooms face significant challenges in providing high-quality journalism due to outdated technology, limited resources, and underinvestment.
These newsrooms are the lifeblood of their communities, yet they struggle to keep pace with the rapid changes in media technology and the demands of an increasingly digital audience.
The Technology Gap
Rural newsrooms are often operating with technology that is years, if not decades, behind what is needed to produce high-quality journalism. Outdated computers and antiquated software make it difficult for reporters to produce stories and generate layouts efficiently or engage with audiences through digital platforms.
Outdated Equipment: Many rural newsrooms are working with legacy systems that hamper their ability to compete in a rapidly changing media landscape.
Limited Digital Tools: In an era where digital content is king, many rural newsrooms lack the tools to create multimedia-rich stories (videos, podcasts, interactive graphics) or to publish on various platforms simultaneously.
This technological gap is more than just an inconvenience; it is a threat to the quality and sustainability of local journalism. Without the right tools, rural newsrooms cannot adequately serve their communities, inform the public, or create a path to sustainability.
The Facts about Local News
The Pew Research Center’s most recent survey (2024) regarding people’s preferred pathways to local news indicates more Americans prefer getting their local news online, through news websites or social media. Less than 1 in 10 Americans prefer getting their local news from a print newspaper or on the radio. Furthermore, of those who do still get local news from newspapers, nearly two-thirds prefer to access it through a digital edition rather than print.
The Pew Research Center’s updated News Platform Fact Sheet (Sept 2024) confirms the majority of Americans (86%) at least sometimes get news from a smartphone, computer or tablet. Just 24% reported they often or sometimes get news from print, the lowest number recorded in surveys to date.
Furthermore, a large majority of Americans (85%), say local news outlets are at least somewhat important to the well-being of their local community (Pew Knight Initiative, 2024). Additionally, research confirms Americans still see value in local news and feel they are doing a good job. In fact, 7 in 10 Americans believe local journalists report news accurately and cover the most important stories and issues.
But perhaps most encouraging of all, research proves most Americans (69%) think local journalists are in touch with their communities. Specifically, this sentiment has increased by six percentage points since 2018, showing more trust with local news.
Because local news outlets have consistently proven to be Americans’ most trusted news sources, philanthropic efforts must be directed toward reshaping local newsrooms in Iowa so all residents have better access to vital information and civic and community engagement opportunities.
The Solution: Upgrading Technology in Rural Newsrooms
With your help, we can ensure that rural newsrooms are equipped to meet the challenges of the digital age. Our campaign will provide funding for essential technological upgrades, including:
Computers and Laptops: Providing reporters and editors with the hardware needed to produce content efficiently.
Software and Multimedia Tools: Investing in editing software, content management systems, and multimedia production tools (such as video editing suites and podcasting equipment) to enhance storytelling capabilities.
Training and Support: Coordinating professional development opportunities for staff to learn how to use new technologies and adapt to evolving journalism practices.
These upgrades will not only improve the quality of journalism but also empower local reporters to cover important stories with greater depth and reach. In a world where digital engagement is crucial, these investments will ensure that rural newsrooms can connect with their communities on every platform – whether online, on social media, or through mobile apps.
The Impact
Upgrading the technology in rural newsrooms will have a far-reaching impact, both for local journalists and for the communities they serve. By ensuring access to the latest tools, we can help rural journalists:
Sustain Local Journalism: With a strong digital presence, rural newsrooms can adapt to changing consumption habits, ensuring that local journalism remains a sustainable and impactful force.
Increase Reporting: With modern equipment and tools, reporters can create in-depth, accurate stories that are essential for informing the public, from local government to community health.
Engage Audiences Online: Digital tools will enable rural newsrooms to better connect with audiences via websites, social media, and mobile platforms—giving them access to critical news and information in real time.
Foster Community Dialogue: Well-equipped newsrooms can facilitate more robust discussions on local issues, empower citizen journalism, and act as a vital community hub for information sharing.
Why This Matters
Rural newsrooms are not just providers of information; they are central to the health of their communities. They tell the stories that matter most to their audiences, from local government decisions and school board meetings to human interest stories and local events.
When rural newsrooms are strong, communities are informed, engaged, and connected.
But local journalism in rural areas is under threat. With the right investments in technology, rural newsrooms can not only survive but thrive. By empowering these newsrooms with the tools they need to succeed, we can safeguard the future of local journalism and ensure that rural communities continue to have a voice in the national conversation.
Partner With Us
We are calling on you—our supporters, partners, and advocates for quality journalism—to join us in this critical effort. Your contribution will fund the technological upgrades that will transform rural newsrooms and enable them to fulfill their mission of serving their communities.
Together, we can bridge the technology gap and ensure that every community has access to the news, information, and resources they need to thrive.
Donations of any size are appreciated and will allow us to reach our goal of providing a digital future for local newsrooms. We have several giving options, including Online Giving, Donor-Advised Funds, Wire Transfers or by mailing a check to the Western Iowa Journalism Foundation, 15302 140th Street, Breda IA 51436.
Donate today. Help us provide a digital future for local news.
Sponsorship Opportunities
We have several sponsorship opportunities available to help us reach our fundraising goal. For more information, contact Executive Director Becky Vonnahme, 712-210-4974.
$100,000 –Transformation for sustainability
$50,000 – Enable a newsroom to add staff for one year to update digital infrastructure
$25,000 – Equip a rural newsroom with new technology
$10,000 – Supply essential digital tools for a community reporter
$5,000 – Provide training sessions for technology integration
Any amount – Build the fund to bridge the digital divide
