All over Europe, small, independent media outlets are emerging, countering the decline in traditional media and the rise of misinformation. But they are still outnumbered and face significant challenges to their survival.
For the first time, facts about this new sector have been collected: a survey of 174 newsrooms from 31 European countries has pulled together knowledge about these small, often non-profit newsrooms. The survey, conducted by Netzwerk Recherche, shows fiery souls, great enthusiasm and professionalism, but also big challenges in funding and sustainability. What is the situation? Are some business models more suitable than others? What should be done to support the sector – and where could support come from?