A growing share of newspaper leaders are looking beyond traditional revenue. According to the latest Blue Engine–Lenfest Newspaper Executive Insights Poll, nearly one-third of executives say expanding philanthropic support is a top priority in 2026.
This session takes an actionable look at what it takes to build philanthropic revenue that holds up and the practical steps that separate one-off grants from sustainable support.
Supported by the Lenfest Institute and the Blue Engine Collaborative, the discussion will break down how organizations of any size can enter — and compete — in the philanthropic space. Also, learn how to define your mission in ways funders understand and how to avoid the common traps that stall momentum early.
Blue Engine Collaborative brings a working model to the table partnering directly with news organizations to develop funding strategies, build development capacity and connect outlets with philanthropic opportunities. The Lenfest Institute, through its Beyond Print initiative, has been at the center of helping local media organizations test and scale new business approaches — including philanthropy — with an emphasis on long-term sustainability.
Panelists are:
Kevin Hall, president and publisher, Georges Media
Bill Church, executive editor, The Santa Fe New Mexican
Cierra Hinton, development director, Blue Engine Collaborative
Moderated by David Grant, director of partnerships, Blue Engine Collaborative
