The American Journalism Project announced Monday it will invest $1 million in The Richmonder over the next three years, supporting the organization's growth and development.

It is the largest grant The Richmonder has received since its founding in Sept. 2024 – our budget is currently less than $1 million each year.

The money is not intended to replace local support, but is an investment in The Richmonder deepening its ties with the community in an accelerated way. The funding is restricted to capacity-building activities, which allows us to build a business infrastructure for sustainable, long-term local support.

Thanks to the grant, new reader donations and corporate sponsorships will now be able to go directly towards expanding our local news product.

More about AJP

AJP is investing nationally in three 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations as part of its commitment to building the future of local news.

“Great local journalism deserves equally strong organizations behind it,” CEO Sarabeth Berman said. “The organizations we're investing in today have already demonstrated exceptional journalism, strong leadership, and deep connections to their communities.

“Our role is to build on that momentum by strengthening the leadership, revenue, operations, and audience capacity that allows great local news organizations to grow their impact so more people can rely on trusted local news for years to come.”

What's next for us

The Richmonder will engage its Board of Directors to create a strategic plan that produces intense, community-centered growth.

The intention of the grant is that when AJP leaves in three years, the organization is on solid footing with local funding through donors, sponsors, events and grants.

The Richmonder has more than 1,300 donors, with monthly membership options starting at $9.99 a month. Contributions to The Richmonder are fully tax-deductible.

“We're grateful for AJP's investment, but equally excited for their track record of rapid growth among their chosen grantees,” Richmonder Founder Michael Phillips said. “Coming on the heels of our Startup of the Year award, there is tremendous enthusiasm nationally that what we are building in Richmond represents the future of local news.”

Learn more

The Richmonder will host a Zoom call on Tuesday at noon where you can hear from staff about our growth plans and ask any questions you might have.

Sign up for the Zoom here.

Thank you for reading and supporting The Richmonder! We are thrilled to represent such a great community, and have you walking alongside us as we create the future of local news.

Contact Michael Phillips at mphillips@richmonder.org.