A coalition of Indiana organizations and philanthropists has raised more than $10 million to launch Indiana Local News Initiative, dedicated to making quality, independent local news information freely accessible to all residents of the state.

The announcement follows a statewide research study led by a committee of local journalism, community and business leaders in partnership with the American Journalism Project.

Researchers heard from more than 1,000 Hoosiers across 79 counties who said they needed more unbiased, fact-based information about their communities.

To start, the initiative will launch a 25-person news organization in central Indiana and produce accountability reporting and employ innovative community journalism programs that engage residents in setting coverage priorities.

In addition, investments will support other organizations in the ecosystem. Capital B, a local national nonprofit news organization serving Black communities, will launch a new newsroom serving Gary.

Existing outlets, including the Indianapolis Recorder, Indiana News Service, a bureau of Public News Service, and Franklin College’s TheStatehouseFile.com, are receiving support, as well.

The announcement is the latest in a growing movement to revive local news in communities across the country with investments in public service journalism by local philanthropies.