Second funding call open for independent publishers
PICTURE: ‘Grocott’s Mail’ was named a Round 1 grantee with 20 other publications, in November 2025 (Kim Nowacki)
Digital News Transformation Fund
The DNTF has announced the timeline for its second funding call, which forms part of the Fund’s ongoing support for the digital transformation and sustainability of South Africa’s small and independent news publishers.
The second funding call follows a two-phase application process designed to reduce barriers to entry while maintaining rigorous, independent assessment. Phase 1 opened on 16 February and closes on 1 March.
This initial phase will be light touch, with no supporting documentation required.
Phase 1 applications will be reviewed by the independent Adjudication Committee during the week of 9 March. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit full proposals in Phase 2, which will run from 16 March to 5 April. Phase 2 applications will undergo full adjudication, with final recommendations completed in April.
The Board will ratify funding decisions following adjudication. Contracting will begin once ratification is complete.
‘Independent news publishers are essential to a healthy democracy. This funding call is structured to make the process more accessible while preserving independent, rigorous decision-making, ensuring support reaches publishers who are committed to sustainability, innovation and public-interest journalism,’ said Marietta Lombard, DNTF Board member.
The DNTF recently announced the launch of Ignite, a new grant programme designed to support early-stage publishers on their digital transformation journey
Recognising the unique sustainability challenges facing smaller publishers and the critical importance of establishing a strong digital presence, Ignite provides targeted funding to help these vital newsrooms take their first steps into the digital landscape.
Ignite provides R100 000 grants to address a variety of urgent sustainability and digital challenges. These grants support early entry into digital transformation, helping publishers establish essential digital functions such as domain registration, basic content management systems, analytics setup, digital content creator and journalist stipends, and foundational training.
Each funding window awards up to seven Ignite grants, with streamlined timelines and simplified reporting requirements.
The funding call is open to new and returning applicants. All applicants must be legally registered entities, be tax compliant, and hold Press Council membership at the time of application
Funding decisions will continue to be made through an independent adjudication process, with oversight by the DNTF Board.
The DNTF is a partnership between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), administered by Tshikululu Social Investments.
The Fund is governed by an independent Oversight and Advisory Board. Neither Google nor AIP participates in funding decisions.
Google is a global technology leader committed to advancing access to information. AIP represents South Africa’s independent publishers, advocating for media diversity and sustainability.
Founded in 1998, Tshikululu Social Investments is South Africa’s leading social investment manager and advisor. Tshikululu independently manages the DNT Fund’s operations, due diligence, and impact reporting.
- Further information on eligibility, application guidelines and key dates is available here.
- Media enquiries made be made to Shaheer Lala at shaheer@prpowerhouse.co.za or +27 076 157 3466
