Why We’ve Refreshed Our Brand

The Pivot Fund is proud to unveil a refreshed brand—a new visual identity that reflects the bold, community-centered journalism we support and the ambitious vision we’re working toward: directing $500 million to grassroots news outlets serving historically marginalized communities.

This brand update is about more than aesthetics. It’s about clarity of purpose, and aligning how we present ourselves with the urgency and creativity of the work happening on the ground.

Redefining Local News from the Ground Up

The newsrooms we support are doing far more than chasing headlines. They are deeply rooted in their communities—often led by people who have lived the issues they’re covering, and who have earned the trust of their audiences through years of service and presence.

From WhatsApp newsletters to pop-up newsrooms and community collaboratives, our grantees are redefining what local news looks like, sounds like, and feels like. Some are reporting from smartphones. Others are organizing community events, creating cultural archives, or launching partnerships that fuel both revenue and impact.

Take Baltimore Beat, for example. They recently partnered with a local brewery to create “The Beat Goes On”—a co-branded beer that supports their reporting. That’s journalism as a cultural force. That’s sustainability powered by creativity.

Raising the Bar to Match the Moment

The creativity and innovation of our grantees challenge us to raise the bar too. That’s why we’ve refreshed our brand—to better reflect the energy, resilience, and vision that define this movement.

We want funders, civic leaders, organizers, and community members alike to see local news for what it is: nontraditional, community-driven, and built on trust—not legacy.

We know that transformative journalism doesn’t always look like it used to. But we believe that’s a good thing. Because what’s emerging is powerful. It’s healing. And it’s necessary.

A New Website Is Coming Soon

Our new website (coming soon) will bring these stories to life—showcasing the powerful impact our grantees are making and the ecosystem of support that makes it possible. It will serve as both a hub for community-rooted news innovation and a record of what’s possible when philanthropy meets purpose.

We’ll share case studies, revenue experiments, audience engagement wins, and deep insight into what it takes to build trust and sustainability in communities that have been historically excluded or misrepresented by traditional media.

The Future of Local News Doesn’t Look Like Its Past

We’re here to help funders and builders meet in that future—because it’s already taking shape.

Whether funding flows through The Pivot Fund or through other aligned efforts, we’re committed to ensuring that the next chapter of local journalism is written by those who know their communities best.

This brand refresh is just one way we’re showing up with intention. We’re grateful to be on this path with all of you—newsroom leaders, partners, and believers in the power of community-rooted media.

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