Investigative Journalism & Nonprofit News

Investigative journalism organizations conduct in-depth reporting on important issues, funded through philanthropic grants, reader donations, and foundation support rather than advertising.

With investigative journalism declining at traditional outlets and nonprofit model emerging, organizations secure funding of $100,000-$300,000+ annually through grants and donations.

The business requires investigation and reporting expertise, nonprofit status (501c3), grant writing capabilities, and publishing platform.

Revenue comes from foundation grants, individual donations, reader memberships, syndication of stories, and institutional partnerships.

Grant funding typically ranges from $25,000-$500,000 for specific investigations or general operating support.

Success factors include journalistic excellence and impact, building foundation relationships, demonstrating community benefit, transparency and accountability, and compelling storytelling.

Most organizations focus on topics like government accountability, environmental issues, criminal justice, or local community investigations.

The business requires nonprofit structure and grant fundraising skills.

Impact and public service emphasized over profitability.

Marketing focuses on foundations, individual donors, and demonstrating investigative impact.

With local and investigative journalism underfunded and foundations supporting public service journalism in 2025, nonprofit news offers mission-driven opportunities for investigative journalists willing to navigate nonprofit funding model to serve public interest.