Press Forward Washington is a collaborative initiative led by community foundations throughout the state, dedicated to reinforcing local news and information as a vital element of civic life. As local news sources dwindle, this chapter seeks to strengthen independent media, broaden community voices, and keep residents informed for active democratic participation. Through investing in local journalism, Press Forward Washington promotes informed, equitable, and resilient communities.

The Press Forward Washington Charter and Strategic Framework can be found here>

Press Forward Washington operates under a national framework with local chapters, enabling foundations to pool resources, share effective strategies, and increase their collective impact. Press Forward Washington’s founding community foundations recognized the opportunity to provide local leadership while coordinating with the national movement, ensuring that Washington’s specific needs are addressed.

The initiative is guided by a council comprised of regional leaders and organizations committed to its mission. The Press Forward Washington Founding Organizations Council Members and  include:

Press Forward Washington collaborates with the newly formed Washington Local News Coalition.

Through a collaborative funding effort, Press Forward Washington is investing in a robust local news infrastructure using the following approaches:

Community-Centered Activities: All initiatives focus on placing community needs and aspirations at the forefront. Press Forward Washington is dedicated to supporting local news and information in all its forms, prioritizing decisions and investments that foster community engagement and wellbeing.

Comprehensive Data Collection and Assessment: Gathering and evaluating relevant data to understand needs of the state’s media ecosystem.

Resource Development: Securing new resources to reinforce and sustain local community reporting.

Collaboration and Alignment: Facilitating cooperation and collaboration among funders, local news and information organizations, and community groups to ensure initiatives are responsive to community priorities.

Strategic Grantmaking: Creating transparent and equitable grantmaking practices designed to distribute resources effectively across Washington State.

Champion Public Policy: Promoting policies that improve access to local news and civic information.

Celebrate Local News: Leading efforts to recognize reliable local news as fundamental to community cohesion, civic engagement, and government accountability.