Reputation positioning, strategic media engagement and thought leadership are being led by PR Powerhouse, says the Fund.

The DNT Fund aim to invest in the sustainability and digital future of independent and small news publishers in South Africa, supporting a diverse and representative news ecosystem as the media landscape undergoes rapid disruption. From community papers to niche digital outlets, recognising that journalism is essential to democracy but requires strategic support to thrive in a digital-first world, says the Fund.

"This partnership allows us to do what we do best, build stories, brands and communities that matter," says Nosipho Ginindza, Managing Director of SoulProviders. "We are proud to shape the voice and visibility of a fund that will change the future of independent media in South Africa."

SoulProviders leads the communications strategy, branding and digital storytelling, while PR Powerhouse will focus on thought leadership, reputation positioning and media relations. Together, they aim to support the Fund's rollout through targeted campaigns, stakeholder engagement and narrative building that speaks to both community and corporate audiences, adds the Fund.

The DNT Fund Supports Publishers at Three Levels:

  • Build — Early-stage news publishers in need of foundational digital tools (such as websites, content management systems, cameras and audio-visual equipment) and guidance to formalise operations.
  • Grow — Mid-stage news publishers with an established online presence who require strategic and technical support to grow audiences, launch new products, or diversify revenue.
  • Engage — Established publishers with fewer than one-million monthly unique website users who are ready to experiment with sector-wide innovations or new business models that can be replicated.

With shrinking newsrooms, economic pressures and the collapse of traditional news hierarchies, South Africa's independent publishers can play an increasingly vital role in informing, empowering and reflecting communities, says the Fund.

"The Fund is here to provide not just financial support, but strategic capability," says Leanne Kunz, Head of Fund of Digital News Transformation Fund. We are thrilled to have SoulProviders and PR Powerhouse helping us elevate the stories of grantees and grow public awareness around the value of independent, public interest media."

For more information, visit www.dntfund.org.za. You can also follow Digital News Transformation Fund on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor