The expansion comes amid accelerating newspaper losses across Illinois. Medill’s latest State of Local News report found that 30 newspapers closed in the state between July 2025 and August 2026, more than in any other state. In greater Springfield, research led by the American Journalism Project identified demand for more local coverage and Illinois Times as the region’s most trusted news source.
“Illinois Times has spent 50 years earning its community’s trust. We’re thrilled to invest in its future: a transformation into a durable nonprofit that brings more original reporting to the people of Central Illinois,” said Sarabeth Berman, CEO of the American Journalism Project.
As it grows, Illinois Times plans to expand its daily digital publishing and add dedicated coverage of municipal government, education, economic development and business. The expansion marks a new chapter for the publication, which was founded in 1975 and transitioned to nonprofit ownership earlier this year when its longtime owner, Fletcher “Bud” Farrar, donated the company to the newly created Local Journalism Matters. Its free weekly print edition will continue to feature long-form and investigative reporting and robust arts and entertainment coverage.
The American Journalism Project’s new $500,000 grant will build on that local commitment, bringing the combined investments to $1 million in support of the organization’s transition and long-term sustainability. AJP’s investment will support a director of development and a corporate engagement manager as the organization builds membership, major gifts and local foundation support. The funding will also be paired with strategic guidance and organizational support to help sustain Illinois Times’ expanded journalism.
Leave a Reply