2024 Above The Noise Community Events Fund

The Above The Noise Community Events Fund is a grant initiative designed to support Colorado newsrooms in organizing in-person community engagement events. The primary aim of this fund is to facilitate meaningful interactions between journalists and community members, particularly those who may not already be connected to local news outlets. By hosting these events, newsrooms can better understand the needs and concerns of the communities they serve, foster dialogue on important issues, and build trust with local residents. The fund is managed by the Colorado Media Project, which emphasizes the importance of community engagement in journalism. The purpose of the Above The Noise Community Events Fund is to enhance the relationship between newsrooms and their communities. The objectives include engaging with new community members, amplifying diverse voices, particularly from youth, communities of color, and non-English-speaking populations, and improving coverage of local elections. The fund also encourages collaboration among newsrooms to address community needs collectively. By supporting these initiatives, the fund aims to strengthen the role of journalism in fostering informed and engaged communities. Grants from the Above The Noise fund are available in amounts up to $1,500. These funds can be utilized for various costs associated with organizing community events, including expenses for translation services, childcare, venue rental, food, and entertainment. The flexibility in the use of funds is intended to make events more accessible and engaging for all community members. Importantly, the grants can cover both hard costs and staff costs related to the events. Eligibility for this grant is open to all nonprofit and locally-owned for-profit newsrooms based in Colorado. Priority will be given to newsrooms that are actively participating in initiatives such as Above the Noise, Public Deliberation, and Voter Voices. Eligible events must be planned for a date after the application submission, although they can occur before the grant payment is processed. This stipulation ensures that applicants are seeking support for future events rather than past ones. The application process for the Above The Noise Community Events Fund is ongoing, with applications accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis through the end of 2024. Interested applicants should prepare to provide detailed information about their proposed events and how they align with the fund's objectives. Specific application questions may focus on the event's goals, target audience, and expected outcomes in terms of community engagement. Evaluation criteria for grant applications will likely include the potential impact of the proposed event on community engagement, the diversity of voices represented, and the overall alignment with the fund's mission. Successful applications will demonstrate a clear understanding of community needs and a commitment to fostering dialogue and trust between newsrooms and residents. For more information about the Above The Noise Community Events Fund, potential applicants can visit the Colorado Media Project's website. The contact person for inquiries is Sam Moody, who can be reached via email at sam@coloradomediaproject.com. This grant presents a valuable opportunity for Colorado newsrooms to enhance their community engagement efforts and strengthen their relationships with local residents.