California Civic Media Program
Strengthening California’s journalism ecosystem through direct grants to news organizations.
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Investing in Newsrooms Across California
The California Civic Media Program is a public-private partnership that invests directly in California’s state and local newsrooms. By funding the organizations doing original, fact-based journalism, the program aims to close information gaps, strengthen communities, and ensure California’s press reflects the people it serves.
2026 Program Roadmap
Applications Are Now Closed
The application period for the California Civic Media Program closed on August 21, 2026. Thank you to the news organizations across California that submitted applications for consideration.
Application Review & Selection Process
Eligible applications will move through an independent review and scoring process. An independent Review Committee representing a range of expertise from across California will score applications using the predefined rubric outlined in the Program & Application Guide.
Learn more about the program eligibility, funding determination, and evaluation criteria: About the Program
Have Questions?
Visit the FAQs and Program Resources for additional information about the review process, funding, program requirements, and the 2026 application period.