Our Big Wins in 2024

Having just celebrated 16 years of TAPinto, I’m going into December reflecting on the incredible milestones with immense gratitude for all we’ve accomplished in 2024. I can say it’s been a year of growth, innovation and impactful journalism, powered by a shared mission and an incredible team.?

Technology Investments?

This year marked a significant leap forward with the launch of the Hyperlocal News Network. HNN combines a licensed CMS platform with a suite of à la carte tools and services designed to help publishers run sustainable media businesses. With partners like David Arkin Consulting providing content consulting and HR Kickstart offering essential HR services, we’ve built HNN into a leading all-in-one solution for publishers — in just over 8 months.?

We’ve also made several key investments enhancing the TAPinto experience this year, including the launch of the TAPinto app, a new audio feature for listening to stories, six fresh article layouts, a new games section, video upload capabilities and AccuWeather forecast integration. These investments are about empowering local publishers while delivering a better user experience for the almost 2 million monthly readers across our network.?

Making an Impact ??

All over the TAPinto network, there are signs our local journalism is making a difference.?

TAPinto Sparta publisher Jennifer Dericks brought critical issues to light when no one else was in the room. Her coverage of a proposed 880,000-square-foot warehouse in Sparta since 2021 not only informed her community but mobilized them to take action.?

In a legal victory for transparency, TAPinto Newark won a significant lawsuit against the Newark School Board, holding local leaders accountable and ensuring public access to vital information.

TAPinto journalists were honored this year by the New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists with multiple Excellence in Journalism Awards, including Best Sports Feature, Best Coverage of Municipal Government and Best Breaking News. And earlier this year, the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University recognized four TAPinto journalists with Excellence in NJ Local News awards for their local reporting.?

These honors underscore how the TAPinto Network empowers journalists to deliver impactful, community-focused reporting every day.?

Sustainability?

But our achievements don’t stop at the newsroom — TAPinto's innovative business model earned recognition for its scalability and sustainability. TAPinto.net - Local News and Digital Marketing won of Best Reader Revenue Strategy in the Local Media Association Digital Innovation Awards for our DIY Marketing Platform, and Franchise Business Review in 2024 named TAPinto a Top 50 Most Innovative Franchise, a Top Low-Cost Franchise and a Top Franchise for Women.?

Our sustainable business model has scaled, and we’re near a new benchmark: 100 individually owned TAPinto sites. In 2024, TAPinto welcomed three new franchises, including TAPinto North Hunterdon, TAPinto Gold Coast and TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City. Two new publishers took over as well at TAPinto Clark and TAPinto Summit. It’s been exciting to see these passionate entrepreneurs bring fresh energy, high-quality news and a marketplace for ideas to their communities.?

When I look back, I’m so proud of each milestone we’ve achieved this year. Through innovation, collaboration and investing in community journalism, we’re in a stronger position than ever to bring vital local news to areas that need it most. I’m incredibly thankful for every person who is part of this journey.?

News and Insights from the News Industry

• This E&P article shares how local media companies are adapting to thrive in the digital ad space. Outlets can strengthen relationships and compete effectively in today’s market by leveraging first-party data and educating advertisers in the process.?
• I also appreciated this article from Apryl Pilolli, who wrote for LMA about how to stay relevant, publishers must embrace immersive storytelling and direct audience engagement while reimagining how news is delivered.?

That Was Fun ?

This year’s New Jersey State League of Municipalities Conference in Atlantic City was a whirlwind of insights, learning and connecting with local leaders. I also got to schedule a catch-up with some old friends from college. It was great to spend time with everyone!?

See You Soon

• If you’ve dreamed of owning your own local news site but want the backing of powerful revenue and distribution, TAPinto could be the perfect solution. Join me on Wednesday, Dec. 11, to learn how TAPinto equips franchisees with a collaborative network, innovative tools and the resources to deliver impactful journalism while running a profitable business. RSVP here.
• On Wednesday, Dec. 18, join me for our Hyperlocal News Network webinar to explore how our platform combines cutting-edge CMS technology with essential tools and consulting services. Whether you want to optimize operations or grow your revenue, HNN provides the tailored solutions you need. RSVP here.

Cheers to finishing strong in December, a happy holiday and a bold year ahead! ??