South Africa’s independent media scene just got a major injection of firepower. The Digital News Transformation Fund is officially off the ground, backed by a cool R114 million, and it’s aiming straight at the heart of one of the country’s biggest media challenges: helping small, independent publishers not only survive but level up.
This isn’t charity. It’s a strategic move to modernise community media, support local-language journalism, and give under-resourced newsrooms a fighting chance in an industry that’s being redefined by digital.
So What Is This Fund All About?
The Digital News Transformation Fund (DNTF) is a collaboration between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), with independent administration handled by Tshikululu Social Investments. Its mission is clear: support small to medium-sized independent publishers with digital tools, training, and funding to help them stay relevant, grow audiences, and find sustainable revenue.
Think of it as a startup incubator for the underdogs of journalism, like community newspapers, the local-language platforms, the people doing the work on the ground while most media attention stays in the cities.
The Board: Who’s Steering This Ship?
The Fund’s inaugural Board is stacked with big names and serious credibility. At the helm are Co-Chairs Vincent Maher(CEO, Broadbrand) and Anetta Mangxaba (AIP Chair and CEO of Dizindaba Media). They’re joined by:
- Styli Charalambous, Co-Founder and CEO, Daily Maverick
- Marietta Lombard, Editor-in-Chief, Caxton Greater Johannesburg Metro
- Mbali Dhlomo, Founder, Intuthuko Newspaper
- Sebenzile Nkambule, Regional Director, MDIF
Media heavyweights Dr Kate Skinner and Izak Minnaar will serve as advisors, bringing deep sector experience. A government rep is expected to join soon.
Their job is to ensure transparency, uphold the Fund’s public interest goals, and make sure real transformation happens where it’s needed most.
Beyond the Money
Here’s where the Fund gets interesting. Grants alone aren’t going to save independent media. That’s why every successful applicant will also get hands-on training, mentoring, and support to embed long-term changes in how they work.
Leanne Kunz, an experienced digital strategist and former newsroom innovator, has been named Head of Fund. She’ll oversee day-to-day operations, helping publishers not just apply for money but actually implement lasting change.
“We’re backing ideas that modernise operations and unlock new income streams,” said Kunz. “That could mean revamping CMS systems, experimenting with new content products, or launching membership models. But it’s always paired with support so publishers build the skills to sustain it.”
Timeline: What’s Coming Next?
The rollout is happening fast. Here’s what to expect:
- 25 August 2025: Official call for proposals
- 21 September 2025: Deadline for applications
- 22 Sept – 27 Oct: Review and due diligence
- 10 November – 7 December: Funding disbursement
- 12 January 2026: Training kicks off
That gives independent publishers just a few weeks to get their proposals in and make a case for support.
Why This Actually Matters
South Africa’s media landscape is still dominated by legacy outlets and centralised voices. But the real storytelling — the kind that matters to people on the ground — often starts in small newsrooms with limited resources.
“Independent publishers are the backbone of local democracy,” said Mangxaba. “We’re the first to show up for our communities and often the last to leave. This Fund is about giving us the tools to keep doing that better, longer, and more sustainably.”
In other words, it’s not just about saving jobs or propping up fading publications. It’s about building a new media ecosystem that actually reflects South Africa’s diversity — linguistically, culturally, and economically.
And that’s the kind of digital transformation we can get behind.
Learn more or apply at www.dntfund.org.za
