California Civic Media Program

A significant public-private funding partnership between the State of California and Google to sustain local news and expand civic information across California. Journalism Funding Partners serves as the third-party administrator for the private funding component.

Funders:

• Public Funds: State of California (administered by The James B. McClatchy Foundation)
• Private Funds: Google ($10 million private fund through California Civic Media Fund, administered by JFP)

Geographic Scope: California

Total Funding: Combined public-private partnership; Google's private fund totals $10 million

Program Partners:

• State Administrator: The James B. McClatchy Foundation (manages state funds)
• Private Fund Administrator: Journalism Funding Partners
• Oversight: Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), with direction from the Office of Governor Newsom
• Funder: Google

Focus Areas:

• Sustaining local news
• Expanding civic information access across California
• Supporting community-centered journalism
• Locally rooted, responsive journalism that serves community needs

Eligibility:

• California newsrooms
• News organizations of all business models

Key Features:

• Unified Application Process: Single application for both state and private funds
• Streamlined Administration: JFP's role reduces administrative burden on news organizations
• Accelerated Funding Timelines: Efficient process designed to move funds quickly to newsrooms
• Mission Focus: Support for reporting that informs communities, strengthens accountability, and reflects lived experiences of residents

Background:

• Partnership selected JFP based on proven track record managing multimillion-dollar local journalism initiatives
• JFP selected for operational expertise and newsroom-centered approach
• Long-standing relationship between Google and JFP Executive Director Rusty Coats (15 years)
• Represents Google's confidence in JFP's financial controls, audit-ready financials, and compliance infrastructure
• Part of broader effort to maintain informed public and healthy democracy through sustained local news

Contact:

• Program Inquiries: CACivicMedia@gobiz.ca.gov
• Journalism Funding Partners: rusty@jfp-local.org | (813) 277-8959

Application Process

Unified Application:

• Single application process for both state and private funds
• Coordinated between JFP (private funds) and The James B. McClatchy Foundation (state funds)

Application Details:

• Specific application procedures, materials, and deadlines not detailed in provided materials
• Application designed to reduce administrative burden on newsrooms
• Process streamlined to accelerate funding timelines

Eligibility Requirements:

• Newsrooms located in California
• News organizations of all business models accepted

Next Steps:

• For complete application instructions and current deadlines, contact program administrators
• Program website: [Available through GO-Biz]

Contact for Information:

• Email: CACivicMedia@gobiz.ca.gov
• Journalism Funding Partners: info@jfp-local.org | (813) 277-8959