AIP and Google Launch R114-Million Digital News Transformation Fund
In a landmark initiative to bolster the sustainability and digital evolution of local and independent news publishers in South Africa, the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) and Google have announced the establishment of the Digital News Transformation Fund (DNT Fund).
This pioneering collaboration, backed by a commitment of R114 million over three years, aims to address the pressing resource challenges faced by small, local, and independent news publishers.
By providing targeted project-based funding, the DNT Fund seeks to help these publishers enhance their digital capabilities, expand audience reach, and secure the sustainability of their public interest journalism.
Supporting Media Sustainability and Transformation
Describing the partnership as a critical step forward for media sustainability, AIP Chairperson Anetta Mangxaba highlighted the importance of grassroots journalism in upholding democratic values.
“Local, independent publishers are essential to a healthy democracy, acting as watchdogs for their communities and amplifying the voices of grassroots citizens. However, South Africa’s grassroots outlets face immense financial pressures and the challenges of the digital divide,”
said Mangxaba.
“We see this fund as a critical opportunity to support small and independent news publishers to grow, adapt to the demands of a digital era, and strengthen their role as effective and resilient voices for their communities.”
Google’s Marianne Erasmus, News Partner Lead for Sub-Saharan Africa, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the initiative’s role in empowering local publishers with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital space.
“This new R114-million investment will fund digital transformation projects with a clear and tangible technological or commercial goal,”
Erasmus stated.
“The funding will be accompanied by ongoing training on digital skills and fundamentals through the Google News Initiative, helping publishers develop data strategies, expand reader engagement, and build resilient business models.”
Framework and Administration
The DNT Fund will operate with a commitment to transparency and inclusivity. Key highlights of its framework include:
- Independent Oversight: The fund will be managed by Tshikululu Social Investments, with fiscal oversight by a multistakeholder Oversight and Advisory Board.
- Transparency: Comprehensive reporting mechanisms will ensure accountability, and a list of funded projects and beneficiaries will be publicly accessible.
- Eligibility: The fund will support small, local, and independent publishers committed to public interest journalism and digital transformation. Beneficiaries must be members of the Press Council of South Africa but do not need to be AIP members or use Google products.
- Timeline: The first round of applications is expected to open by March 2025, following consultations with industry stakeholders and the finalisation of fund structures.
Building a Resilient News Ecosystem
The DNT Fund recognizes the vital role of local and independent publishers in fostering a diverse and trusted news landscape. It marks a proactive step to bridge the digital divide and ensure these publishers can continue serving their communities in a rapidly evolving media environment.
For further details about the Digital News Transformation Fund, including eligibility criteria and updates on the application process, visit aip.org.za/fund.