Philanthropy-Supported Journalism

Harry Browne, Technological University Dublin

International Encyclopedia of Journalism Studies, first published 29th April 2019.

Abstract

There is a widespread perception that the market is failing to ensure the provision of high quality, impactful journalism, especially investigative work and in‐depth coverage of governmental and international affairs. One answer to that market failing has been the development of philanthropy‐supported journalism. Some writers see this as a potentially important, if partial, solution to journalism's problems, strengthening the editorial focus on creating social and policy impacts. Others have expressed concern that philanthropic support draws journalists toward elite orientations, with both funders themselves and their desired audiences representing the socioeconomic upper tiers.