Building News Communities Online: Opportunities in Digital Journalism

The economic crisis beginning in 2008 has led to a loss in reportorial capacity never before witnessed in American history. Filling the gaps in news coverage are new start-up digital-first news media outlets. The development of journalism outlets in a new form of media have presented many financial challenges. Advertising and subscription revenue have yet to provide funding at the same rate as they have for broadcast and print media. This study examines the methods currently in use to generate revenue to launch and fund a digital-first news media outlet. Focus is placed on the decision-making and perceptions of editors and publishers of new digital-first media outlets.