What are partner matching funds?

Partner funds are additional matching grants awarded to select newsrooms that align with a funder’s geographic or issue-based priorities. They have proven to be an effective way to engage a broader range of regional, interest-based, and first-time journalism funders in supporting INN members through NewsMatch. For example, past partner funds have supported organizations serving rural communities and investigative outlets in the American South.

INN raises money for partner funds each year, so the amount and focus of these funds can change annually. Funder interest and priorities can also change annually, meaning that partner funds are not guaranteed to recipient newsrooms year-to-year.

Eligibility for partner funds is based on the information provided in your NewsMatch application—no extra steps are required. In some cases, INN may visit your website to verify coverage of certain topics or communities. Notifications are sent directly to selected newsrooms on a rolling basis, beginning in September.