News
How The Courier Eco Latino is Transforming Revenue with Community
October 30, 2024
The Courier Eco Latino, a Georgia-based publication serving BIPOC communities, is redefining sustainability in local journalism with an innovative approach to revenue generation. With support from The Pivot Fund, the outlet has launched a new online obituary platform that not only serves grieving families but also creates a sustainable, long-term revenue stream.
A Revenue Model Rooted in Community Service
The Courier Eco Latino’s obituary platform is designed to streamline the process for families to upload and pay for obituaries, memorials, and death notices directly through the website. With multiple pricing tiers, this service is a valuable resource for the community and a reliable source of income for the publication.
“We’ve always helped families honor their loved ones, but this platform allows us to offer a professional and meaningful service while supporting our financial sustainability,” said Wane Hailes, publisher of The Courier Eco Latino.
The platform is expected to generate approximately $90,000 annually from local funeral home submissions, and it includes additional services such as flower and memorial gift sales, further diversifying revenue opportunities. This is a clear example of how innovative, community-based models can deliver significant financial returns.
Strategic Planning and Partnerships Drive Success
The success of this platform was made possible through careful planning, research, and strategic partnerships. The Courier Eco Latino partnered with local funeral homes and leveraged guidance from The Pivot Fund’s Chief Revenue Officer, Justin Rushing, to develop the platform.
“Justin played a key role in bringing this initiative to life,” said Hailes. “The Pivot Fund didn’t just provide the financial resources—we had ongoing strategic support to ensure success.”
Replicating Success: Lessons for Funders and Publishers
For funders, The Courier Eco Latino’s success highlights the power of investing in innovative, community-centered solutions. By supporting projects that align with community needs, funders can help publications create sustainable revenue streams while deepening community ties. The obituary platform is more than a service—it’s a blueprint for how funders can work with grantees to foster innovation and financial growth.
Hailes encouraged funders to support early-stage ideas and collaborations that address both community needs and financial sustainability. “Start early, understand the community, and invest in strategic partnerships,” he advises. The Courier Eco Latino’s experience shows that sustainable, scalable solutions are possible with the right support.
The Pivot Fund’s Role in Transforming Local News
This project wouldn’t have been possible without The Pivot Fund’s financial and strategic backing. By providing not just funding but hands-on support, The Pivot Fund empowered The Courier Eco Latino to launch a platform that benefits both the community and the publication’s bottom line. Funders play a crucial role in enabling such innovative projects that can serve as models for others in the industry.
Looking forward, The Courier Eco Latino plans to expand the obituary platform to local churches and organizations, offering services in both English and Spanish to increase accessibility and impact.
Key Takeaways for Funders:
- Support Innovative Revenue Models: Investing in community-centered services can generate sustainable income for publications.
- Foster Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations between grantees and local businesses can amplify both social and financial impact.
- Provide More Than Funding: Ongoing strategic support is crucial to turning ideas into reality.
- Empower Experimentation: Encourage grantees to explore new models that can be scaled across the industry.
The Courier Eco Latino’s success demonstrates how funders can drive innovation and sustainability in local news. With the right investments, funders can help publications not only survive but thrive.