Supporting philanthropy to fund NFP journalism

New research will explore the potential of a not-for-profit journalism sector  

The philanthropy sector is being urged to take part in a major research project examining philanthropy’s potential to support public interest journalism in Australia.

The Public Interest Journalism Initiative (PIJI) is calling on philanthropic trusts, foundations or donors that have funded or considered funding Australian public interest journalism to participate in its Philanthropic Giving For Journalism project.

Philanthropy Australia, Pro Bono Australia and Australian Communities Foundation are partners in the initiative, which is the second in a series of research projects exploring taxation reform to strengthen public interest journalism.

PIJI research and projects manager Gary Dickson encouraged funders to participate.

“Supporting philanthropy to fund not-for-profit journalism has been proposed many times, including by the Senate and the ACCC in its Digital Platforms Inquiry,” Dickson told Pro Bono News.

“But until now, nobody has conducted the necessary research to understand whether philanthropy wants to fund journalism or how much of an impact that funding could make. 

“This is really important research because it will fill a critical data gap and lead to a better understanding of the potential of a not-for-profit journalism sector and ultimately, better policy design.”

Funders are being asked to take part in a confidential one-on-one interview or focus group, with research being conducted through February and March.

You can find out more information here.