You know that moment when a song you’ve heard a hundred times suddenly hits different? That happened last week at the America’s Newspapers Mega-Conference in Orlando.
Nearly 400 newspaper executives and tech partners gathered for three days of focused discussion, collaboration and momentum-building for the future of local newspapers. There was real energy in the room — and of course, since we were in Florida, Tom Petty made the playlist.
And then came the lyric:
“I won’t back down. Gonna stand my ground.”
That line captured the spirit of the conference. This industry is energized, passionate, committed — and more than anything — confident. That confidence wasn’t just on stage. It was in every breakout session, Solutions Session, and hallway conversation.
We’re not backing down. We’re moving forward — and doing it together.
I always leave the Mega-Conference inspired. But this year, it was more than that. I left feeling empowered — to keep building smarter, stronger, more sustainable local newspapers. If you were there, you felt it. If you missed it, talk to someone who didn’t. And start planning now to be in Austin for 2026.
There’s too much to recap in one column, but here are a few key takeaways:
Advocacy isn’t optional — it’s essential
America’s Newspapers is driving advocacy at both the state and national levels. Publishers are working together to push for legislation, defend local journalism and educate communities.
These are complex political times — but that only raises the stakes. We’re seeing progress on bills that could help sustain local newspapers. But the most powerful advocacy tool is one we all have: our voice. We need to keep telling our story — clearly and consistently. Because when we speak together, we’re stronger.
Trust is our edge
National trust in media may be declining — but local newspapers are the exception.
According to our research, 87% of Americans say their trust in local newspapers has stayed the same or gone up. That’s a powerful signal — and one we need to protect.
At the conference, publishers shared how they’re building that trust every day by showing up, listening and delivering value. One standout: The Spokesman-Review in Spokane, where Rob Curley and his team are proving that community connection and business success go hand in hand.
AI isn’t coming — it’s here
Just a year ago, our AI sessions were focused on possibilities. This year, the focus shifted: AI is already changing how we work.
We still have major concerns about how our content is used — and America’s Newspapers is actively working to protect it. But we also have to lean in. AI is already being used in newsrooms and sales teams to save time, improve workflows and support staff. It’s not science fiction — it’s a practical tool. And we need to lead, not follow.
Our Solutions Partners are powering progress
More than 90 companies joined us in Orlando. And they weren’t just there to pitch. They came to engage, to listen and to collaborate.
These aren’t just vendors — they’re partners. They’re working together, not just selling products, but solving problems. Helping local newspapers grow revenue, reach audiences and streamline operations.
The future is in the room
This year, students from Baruch College joined the Mega-Conference — a first for the event. They came ready to learn, ask questions and participate. And they left hopeful, curious and energized.
That should be a signal for us: open the door wider. The next generation is ready to be part of what’s next.
We are needed — and we’re rising to the moment
One moment stuck with me. A hotel guest, not part of the conference, glanced at our signage and said, “It’s good to see newspapers are doing something. We need you.”
That’s the takeaway. We are needed. Our communities rely on us. And we’re stepping up — innovating, collaborating and shaping the future of local newspapers.
To everyone who joined us — thank you. You are the heart of this work. You are the reason we’re moving forward with confidence.
Mark your calendar:
2026 Mega-Conference | Austin, Texas | March 30–April 1
You don’t want to miss it.
Because one thing’s for sure:
We won’t back down. And we’ll stand our ground.
