TAPinto This Month: Insights and Innovations in Local Journalism

Hi friends,?

Each month, my goal is to take time to reflect on what’s happened at TAPinto and our greater industry. This will be a place where I share thoughts on recent news and accomplishments, giving kudos and gratitude whenever possible. We’re looking forward to some exciting announcements this month, so I hope you’ll follow and read along.?

Excellence in Journalism: A Pillar of Integrity and Impact

Journalistic excellence is the backbone of any media enterprise, but at TAPinto, we take this mission seriously. It’s a promise we make to the communities we serve — both readers and advertisers.?

I want to take a moment to reflect on how our commitment to high-quality, free journalism has informed and engaged our communities and also solidified the trust that readers and advertisers place in us.?

Recently, four TAPinto journalists received 2024 NJ News Commons Excellence in Local News Awards from the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University. TAPinto was also just honored with first place for Best Reader Revenue Strategy in the Local Media Association 2023 Digital Innovation Awards.?

Can you see the connection?

Internally, we know that our TAPinto publishers consistently strive to provide journalism with integrity, at no cost to readers. We know that our community-centered, ad-supported revenue model works for hyperlocal news publishers.?

Receiving honors that recognize our journalism and business strategy is so meaningful to our organization, our readers and our advertisers.?

These recent awards show how our work both enhances community involvement and translates directly into business success. Advertisers and readers trust us because they see the tangible impacts of our work in the community. These impacts resonate deeply with their values and interests.

We’re building a business enterprise based on this invaluable trust. Trust grows loyal readership and attracts advertisers who are eager to associate with a reputable platform whose mission champions the public good. This synergy between high-quality journalism and business success is what propels TAPinto forward, with our ad-supported model keeping our news accessible to all.?

News Insights About the News Industry

• Leaders at large metro news sites shared some great advice with Nieman Lab for engaging with their audiences, with the end goal of subscriber acquisition. At TAPinto, we also focus on building direct relationships with our audience, offering high-quality news and community engagement like the metro paywalled sites, but free of charge. We get reader feedback and provide a unique platform where community members have a voice. We’ve chosen a no-paywall model because, in hyperlocal markets, relying solely on subscription revenue often isn’t viable. This approach not only fosters trust but also keeps our community informed and connected.
• The last week or two, I’ve seen this article form The Atlantic , Democracy Dies Behind Paywalls, circulated around, and it made me note the irony of this opinion article published on a paywalled site. But we’re in sync on the core idea here: open access to local news can empower communities, boost civic engagement, and foster democracy. Now is a critical time for more news organizations to explore sustainable, community-driven solutions that balance revenue needs with free public access.

ICYMI: TAPinto Highlights

• Congrats to TAPinto North Hunterdon, the latest TAPinto site bringing free, original local news to its community. This new site has quickly become a cornerstone for community news, reaching profitability faster than any other site in TAPinto’s history. I love celebrating new record-breaking TAPinto success stories.?
• Once again, TAPinto has been named a 2024 Top Low-Cost Franchise by Franchise Business Review. For the second consecutive year, we demonstrated our ability to equip our franchisees with cutting-edge technology and support, ensuring that even entrepreneurs with modest means can successfully manage their own local news and digital marketing platforms.
• If you missed my webinar with Local Media Association where I dive into key aspects of the TAPinto business model, here’s where I share seven revenue generators for publishers that aren’t using paywalls or membership.?

That Was Fun?

The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce did a wonderful job putting together this year's ReNew Jersey Summit & Expo. It was great to connect with so many old friends and marketing partners at an event that truly strengthens our business community.?

See You Soon

Join me Wednesday, May 15 at noon ET to see why nearly 100 owner/publishers have joined the TAPinto Network. We’ll share more about how our proven model supports local journalism and drives profitability. I’ll be on deck for your questions, so fire away. You can register here.?

I'm always up for a good chat about the future of local journalism or exploring opportunities within TAPinto. Feel free to pick up the conversation and drop me a message.?