Guide

Lenfest Institute publishes Richard J. Tofel’s “Elements of Nonprofit News Management"

October 4, 2022

More than 135 nonprofit news organizations have launched across the United States over the past five years — about double the number of startup nonprofit newsrooms that were created in the previous five-year period. But starting a nonprofit news organization requires more than great journalism, it necessitates a solid revenue strategy, operational infrastructure, legal representation, and much more. 

To help nonprofit newsrooms and news entrepreneurs build sustainable organizations, The Lenfest Institute for Journalism is proud to publish “Elements of Nonprofit News Management,” a new book by Richard J. Tofel, the former president and founding general manager of ProPublica. 

“Elements of Nonprofit News Management” draws on Tofel’s years of experience in managing and running a nonprofit newsroom. From drafting a strong mission statement to connecting with potential donors, the book covers a range of vital topics media professionals should consider for the future of their companies. It’s a must-read for anyone starting, running, or working at a nonprofit news organization.

To celebrate the publication, we hosted a free virtual event highlighting key lessons from Tofel’s new book. Tofel was in conversation with Lenfest Institute Executive Director & CEO Jim Friedlich to discuss key recommendations from the book and answer questions. You can check out a recording of the conversation here.