Trusted messengers fighting for our communities
Founded in 2024, Beacon Media is working to fight for a more fair, inclusive and just democracy across North Carolina by serving and galvanizing marginalized audiences who are too often left out of the conversation. We believe that in an age of misinformation, we must work with talented grassroots leaders and build “surround sound” around them — by distributing our free, syndicated content to existing community publications (newspapers and digital outlets) and building the new community media that serves our collective democracy.
Building Relationships
We build relationships with existing and emerging community leaders across the state who are working on the issues that will make North Carolina thrive.
Building New Media
We produce and distribute commentary and news in English and Spanish that unites our communities around common values and shows what a vision for the future could look like if we work together. We are not afraid to cut through the noise with rigorously fact-checked reporting and commentary that connects the dots on who is seeking to drive us apart.
Syndicate & Distribute
We distribute all of our work for free to print and digital publications, nonprofit institutions, community thought leaders and through community radio in English and Spanish. That also includes our own distribution channels through our Radio + Digital initiative and County Beacon hyperlocal news initiative.
Who we are
Most media is built around their business model — attracting readers and then charging them a subscription. However, news and information habits in the U.S. have changed considerably, meaning large swaths of the population — particularly marginalized communities — are left out. In addition, Beacon Media understands that we must offer a positive vision of a better collective future.
We believe we have a particular role in serving rural North Carolina; the Tar Heel state has the second largest rural population outside of Texas. We are building around thought leaders and advocates who understand the complexity of our state and who care deeply about policies that will make North Carolina a better place to live for all North Carolinians.
Beacon voices
At Beacon Media, our stories are shaped by a dynamic group of contributors whose roots run deep in North Carolina. From lifelong residents to recent arrivals, our Beacon Voices bring unique perspectives that truly reflect the diversity of our state. They delve into overlooked stories with dedication, aiming to spark meaningful conversations and affect real change. These contributors are more than just journalists; they are engaged citizens and passionate advocates for their communities.
