Press Forward Central Appalachia Launches Rural News Fund to Strengthen Local News Infrastructure

As Central Appalachia grapples with the rise of news deserts and ongoing challenges in civic infrastructure, the newly launched Rural News Fund is set to make a transformative impact. Thanks to a $750,000 seed grant from the MacArthur Foundation, this initiative, in partnership with the Appalachia Funders Network and Press Forward Central Appalachia, aims to support nonprofit news startups with vital working capital, technology, and technical assistance.

The Rural News Fund, managed by Invest Appalachia and facilitated by Media Growth Partners, is committed to restoring local news and amplifying authentic Appalachian voices. The program focuses on strengthening journalism in counties across West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Ohio, and North Carolina — many of which are currently designated as news deserts.

BBG – A Commitment to Black Appalachian Voices

Black By God – The West Virginian (BBG), as one of the organizations supported by this initiative, stands at the forefront of these efforts. With the support we received last year, BBG was able to stabilize operations, refine our business model, and continue providing vital coverage of Black and BIPOC communities in Appalachia.

Our mission at BBG has always been clear: to ensure Black Appalachian stories are heard, valued, and archived. This funding has allowed us to:

• Expand our reporting on issues affecting Black communities in coalfield regions and beyond.
• Develop partnerships 
• Train and support Folk Reporters, empowering local voices to tell their own stories.

Now, with the Rural News Fund expanding in 2025, we are excited to see even more local news organizations gain the support they need to flourish. The investment in regional journalism is not just about keeping outlets alive — it’s about ensuring communities stay informed, connected, and empowered to shape their own narratives.

Looking Ahead

At BBG, we believe this is just the beginning. The Rural News Fund represents an essential step toward revitalizing local journalism in Central Appalachia, and we’re proud to be part of a movement that ensures everyone’s stories matter.

We look forward to continuing our work and supporting the broader mission of Press Forward Central Appalachia. This initiative holds the promise of a future where rural communities have robust, trusted news sources and where voices that have long been marginalized finally take center stage.

Thank you to the Appalachia Funders Network, the MacArthur Foundation, Invest Appalachia, and Media Growth Partners for making this possible. Together, we’re reclaiming our narratives and shaping a brighter future for Appalachian media.