Press Forward South Florida Launches Open Call for Grants
At the Key Biscayne Community Foundation (KBCF), we believe strong communities are built on trusted local information. For years, KBCF has invested in local journalism because informed residents are better equipped to engage in civic life, strengthen neighborhood connections, and help shape a thriving future for our island and beyond. Key Biscayne’s own history reflects these values, with parks and institutions honoring legendary journalists and advocates whose work advanced public understanding and civic engagement.
That commitment is why KBCF is proud to be one of five founding partners of Press Forward South Florida (PFSF), a regional initiative dedicated to strengthening local news and information ecosystems. By investing in local newsrooms and emerging community storytellers, we’re helping ensure that residents, families, businesses, and visitors have access to the reliable local information they need to make informed decisions and participate in community life.
We’re excited to announce Press Forward South Florida’s open call for grants—an opportunity to support the next generation of local journalism and build a more informed, connected, and resilient South Florida.
PFSF has launched its initial grant round, providing two categories: Newsroom Strength and Newsroom Collaboration.
The Newsroom Strength grant is designed to help local newsrooms build sustainable, long-term business models by providing operational support and strategic planning. Recipients will receive sustainability audits, coaching from LION Publishers, and a $20,000 stipend to execute the suggested improvements.
The Newsroom Collaboration grant supports partnerships between local news organizations, with the goal of becoming stronger together. By collaborating, local news organizations can combine resources, expand their audience reach, and make a greater impact on the community. Between $20,000 and $100,000 will be provided over two years.
Research conducted by PFSF revealed that despite a majority of residents saying they trust local news, a lack of accessibility and representation has resulted in a highly fragmented news ecosystem.
Residents don’t feel that their voices are heard or that the community’s true needs are being addressed. The inability to access critical information about local politics and initiatives fuels this cycle, leaving our communities disheartened and disconnected. PFSF aims to bridge the gap between what communities need, what they can easily access, and what is actually provided. Thriving communities depend on informed residents and equitable representation. By strengthening local news organizations, you promote civic engagement, advocate for those who have fallen through the cracks of a fractured system, represent diverse voices, and confront systemic issues. To create real change, we have to support local news.
The Key Biscayne Foundation and The Miami Foundation are proud to support Press Forward South Florida in its mission to strengthen local news organizations and build a more functional, purposeful, and accessible news landscape across South Florida.
Applications for both grant opportunities are open until July 24th on Press Forward South Florida’s site. Check it out here to learn more about the guidelines, find links to info webinars, and get started.