Press Forward Southwestern Pennsylvania

Press Forward Southwestern PA formed in early 2024 with the goal of unifying the local foundation community in support of journalism across southwestern Pennsylvania.  The work benefits the larger public by ensuring the Greater Pittsburgh region continues to have robust local journalism in support of democratic institutions and civic engagements. 

The Center for Media Innovation at Point Park University convenes the chapter with The Benter Foundation; The Heinz Endowments; Henry L. Hillman Foundation; and The Pittsburgh Foundation, as well as other local foundation partners.

Press Forward, a coalition of 20 donors, formed a national initiative to strengthen communities and democracy by supporting local news and information with an infusion of more than a half-billion dollars over five years. Press Forward’s goal is to enhance local journalism at an unprecedented level to re-center local news as a force for community cohesion; support new models and solutions that are ready to scale; and close longstanding inequities in journalism coverage and practice.

 As a chapter of the national movement, Press Forward Southwestern PA convenes regional funders and stakeholders to support local news that values collaboration, connection and community across 10 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania.