Illinois

Our 2025 annual report highlights major policy wins, bipartisan momentum and significant funding now flowing to local newsrooms from state and local laws

In 2025, the Local Journalism Sustainability Tax Incentive Program awarded $4 million in tax credits, supporting over 260 journalist jobs across more than 120 local ...

Use the blank application and two completed examples to guide your newsroom through the Local Journalism Sustainability Tax Incentive Program’s application process

A step-by-step guide for Illinois newsrooms, including an eligibility checklist, a credit calculator to estimate potential awards and resources to help you complete the application ...

A practical overview and answers to common questions about Illinois’ Local Journalism Sustainability Tax Incentive Program, including eligibility requirements, payroll tax credit amounts and the ...

State-led policy efforts and investments in 2025 ensured local newsrooms could continue serving communities despite federal challenges

Applications for the Local Journalism Sustainability Tax Incentive Program open February 1, 2026, offering funding to help hire and retain journalists.

Data from the new Local Journalist Index can help leaders invest in, expand, and protect local journalism in underserved communities.

The official legislative language for Illinois’ policies on employment tax credits for local newsrooms, disclosures for newspaper sales to out-of-state buyers, and scholarships for in-state ...