Family-owned and independently operated newspapers are not just part of this industry — they’re the heart of it.
These companies are deeply invested in their communities, often operating with lean teams and long histories. They are committed to trusted local journalism, driven by strong values and responsible for sustaining news in places where no one else will.
At the same time, they’re facing some of the most complex challenges in our business — rising costs, shifting revenue models, generational transitions and the daily pressure of running a company that’s both a public service and a family legacy.
That’s why we’re expanding our Family Owners program in a meaningful way.
This fall, America’s Newspapers will offer two distinct meetings for family-owned and independently operated newspapers — each with a different structure, focus and purpose.
For small to mid-sized newspaper owners, we’re introducing a new event built around their specific needs. The first Family Owners Regional Roundtable, taking place Sept. 18-19 near Chicago, is designed specifically for smaller operations.
This meeting is fast-paced and peer-driven — focused on revenue growth, audience development, succession planning and day-to-day challenges. It’s built for owner-operators, publishers, active family members and key managers. The format is tactical, candid and encourages real-time idea sharing and personal conversations. And thanks to generous support from the SNPA Foundation, registration is just $50, making it a more accessible and affordable option for companies operating on tighter margins.
And, we’ll be introducing other regional meetings across the country in 2026.
Later this fall, we’ll also host our traditional Family Owners Meeting — our flagship event for family-owned groups with multiple markets, their families, governing boards and executive-level decision-makers. Held in conjunction with the Senior Leadership Conference, this year’s meeting at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs (Nov. 2) offers a more strategic lens — exploring ownership models, long-term structure, growth planning and leadership transitions. It’s a time to think beyond the day-to-day and connect with peers navigating similar long-term decisions.
Both meetings share the same mission: to support family-owned newspapers through collaboration, shared insight and solutions rooted in real-world experience. But we also recognize that no two ownership models — or markets — are the same. That’s why this expansion matters.
We’re building a stronger, more flexible Family Owners program that reflects the full range of our members — and the challenges they face. If you’re part of a family-owned or independently operated newspaper, I hope you’ll join us in Chicago or Colorado Springs, or both. While each meeting will have its own focus based on total organizational size, all family members and their leadership teams are welcome to attend either or both meetings.
To learn more or register, visit: https://member.newspapers.org/familyowners.html
The Family Owners program is generously sponsored by the SNPA Foundation and the Inland Press Foundation
