Prebys Foundation Invests $2 Million in San Diego Nonprofits to Bolster Local Journalism

San Diego, California — The Prebys Foundation announced on Monday a $2 million investment in local nonprofit journalism, targeting five organizations with two-year grants designed to enhance access to trustworthy information in the region.

The Times of San Diego is among the beneficiaries, receiving a $300,000 grant, along with four other local outlets, each also receiving the same amount. Additionally, CalMatters will be provided $800,000 to function as a shared reporting and data resource for regional media partners.

Grant Oliphant, CEO of the Prebys Foundation, emphasized the importance of these nonprofit news organizations, stating, “These nonprofit news organizations are a vital part of our civic infrastructure. They help San Diegans make sense of the complex issues facing our region — from climate and housing to education and local governance.”

The foundation highlighted the role of these organizations in fostering civic engagement, noting that they provide investigative rigor and community-centered reporting essential for informing the public and holding institutions accountable. “When people have access to trustworthy information, they participate more fully in civic life, make better decisions, and feel more connected to each other and their community,” Oliphant added.

This funding initiative comes at a critical time, as traditional newsrooms across the country are diminishing. In contrast, nonprofit journalism endeavors are emerging to fill those gaps, thus reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to support collaboration and innovation among local news outlets.

“This generous grant from the Prebys Foundation will enable Times of San Diego to increase its daily coverage while also publishing more in-depth articles about our region’s top issues — housing, immigration, local politics, education, and the environment,” said Chris Jennewein, editor and general manager of Times of San Diego. He expressed optimism regarding future collaborations aimed at nurturing a healthy local news ecosystem.

The Prebys Foundation’s initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance civic life and cultivate a more inclusive and equitable San Diego. Their plans also include supporting ethnic and community media, collaborative storytelling, and providing technical assistance aimed at helping nonprofit newsrooms to innovate and thrive.

The foundation is encouraging additional funding organizations and individual donors to contribute to efforts supporting local media. As the largest independent private foundation in San Diego County, the Prebys Foundation is committed to investing in institutions, ideas, and people that foster financial security, health, empowerment, and connection within the community.