September 26, 2024 | Stories
In a move set to reshape Wichita’s local news landscape, four Wichita-based publications – The Community Voice, The (Kansas Leadership Center) Journal, Wichita by E.B., and Wichita Life ICT – are leading the charge toward building a sustainable news organization. These information outlets have been selected for a Sustainability Audit performed by LION Publishers (LION) and powered by the Wichita Foundation’s (WF) Press Forward Wichita Fund.
The pilot program will examine these four news outlets and equip them with the tools and insights needed to build a lasting, thriving presence in Wichita’s media scene. WF is also funding a one-year LION membership for the cohort.
“The LION Sustainability Audit seemed like a great opportunity for me to talk with people that have experience building a news business,” said Wichita Life ICT Founder Landon Huslig. “As someone from outside of the industry, I don’t know what I don’t know and this will allow me to save time, prevent headaches and ultimately create a truly sustainable business.”
The Sustainability Audit, launched by LION in 2021, has already helped more than 300 publications across the country. The process is thorough: from a comprehensive questionnaire to an expert analysis and a final audit report loaded with actionable advice.
“We’re investing in the future of Wichita’s storytellers,” said WF Chief Strategy Officer Courtney Bengtson. “By supporting these audits, we’re ensuring that our community stays connected with the essential information that helps people thrive.”
As these four publications undergo the audit in 2024, they’re not just participants—they’re pioneers in a movement towards a sustainable and vibrant local news ecosystem.
