top of page
HOME
ABOUT
RESOURCES
DIRECTORY
Community News Startup Checklist
Define Your Community
Decide exactly who you’re serving. A town, a county, or a specific region. Clear boundaries create clear purpose.
Cover What Matters
Focus on local government, schools, public safety, businesses, and community life. If it affects daily life, it’s news.
Choose a Simple Format
Pick a platform you can manage consistently. A website or newsletter is enough to start. Note: Social media can support the work, it is not the work.
Show Up and Publish
Attend meetings. Talk to people. Take notes. Remember names. Set a schedule and stick to it. Trust is built through presence and reliability.
Keep It Sustainable
Keep costs low. Build revenue through local advertising or sponsorships. Grow carefully over time.
A quick guide to getting a local news outlet off the ground.
bottom of page