Beyond Print Grant Program

The Lenfest Institute for Journalism has launched the Beyond Print Grant Program to support independent local newspapers in the United States that are navigating the transition from print to digital publishing. The program is designed to reduce dependency on print revenue, foster digital sustainability, and help newspapers adopt innovative content distribution platforms. Funding is aimed at enhancing audience engagement, especially among younger readers, while fostering the sharing of results and best practices across the industry through the Beyond Print Toolkit. This grant opportunity prioritizes projects that accelerate the shift from print to digital, redesign digital products for modern audiences, build sustainable revenue models, and develop innovative distribution methods. Examples of eligible projects include improving communication strategies around the digital transition, enhancing customer service and training, creating digital newsletters or podcasts, generating new digital revenue models, and hosting community engagement events. Applicants may also propose experimental approaches in newer areas like partnerships with content creators and strategies to attract younger audiences. The program is open to independently-owned local newspapers within the U.S. that currently operate a print product and are committed to digital transformation. Both nonprofit and for-profit organizations are eligible, provided their leadership supports the project and the proposed initiative aligns with one or more of the specified focus areas. Applications must outline a clear hypothesis, success metrics, and a feasible plan and budget for implementation. The total program funding is up to $400,000, with individual grants awarded for up to $50,000 per organization. Project durations may range from three to six months. Funds can be used to cover staff time, contractors, technology, events, or other direct costs. Applications will be evaluated on alignment with the program’s objectives, feasibility, potential for audience impact, and the ability to generate actionable insights for peer organizations. Applications must be submitted through the Lenfest Institute's Fluxx Grantee Portal by November 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Applicants are advised to create a Fluxx account by November 15 to ensure timely submission. Grantees will be notified in December 2025. Selected participants will be required to submit a final report covering outcomes, findings, audience impact, financial implications, and peer guidance. These reports will inform future updates to the Beyond Print Toolkit and promote shared learning in the local journalism ecosystem. For questions about eligibility or the application process, applicants are encouraged to contact the program administrator at tristan@lenfestinstitute.org.

Emphasize alignment with Beyond Print goals, feasibility, and replicability. Leadership support is critical.