North Carolina Leads in Transforming Local News Landscape
North Carolina, renowned for its innovative journalism support initiatives, is transforming the way local news is accessed and consumed. The Knight Media Forum recently explored the evolving definition of journalism, highlighting the significance of nontraditional news providers. A 2025 survey revealed a shift in how residents learn about their communities, with 44% relying more on social media than traditional news sources.
The Tar Heel State boasts a diverse landscape of local news providers, with regional news outlets like ABC News local affiliates, community-focused platforms, and municipal communication channels collaborating to meet community needs. These sources emphasize inter-community cooperation and timely updates tailored to local concerns. The definition of a journalist is expanding, with influencers, independent news producers, and AI-generated content playing significant roles.
In 2025, the role and importance of nontraditional news providers are major themes in journalism. North Carolina is home to 241 local news providers and 480 civil society organizations (CSOs) serving communities. An online registry is being created to analyze and display data about these news providers, encouraging collaboration to better serve communities. A 2022 study found that nearly half of people in news deserts turn to alternative sources like Facebook groups and chambers of commerce for local news and information.
North Carolina's innovative journalism landscape reflects a broader shift in how local news is accessed and produced. The expanding definition of journalism, the rise of nontraditional news providers, and the use of alternative sources highlight the need for collaboration and adaptability in serving communities. The upcoming registry aims to facilitate this collaboration, ensuring that North Carolinians continue to have access to relevant and timely local news.
