[Johannesburg, South Africa – 22 September 2025] – The Digital News Transformation Fund (DNTF) has received 164 applications during Phase 1 of its inaugural funding call, which opened on 25 August 2025 and closed on 14 September 2025.
This strong response reflects the high level of interest from small, local, and independent news publishers across South Africa in strengthening their sustainability and advancing digital transformation. The total value of funding requested was just under R163 million, against an available pool of R10.7 million in the first of six funding rounds over three years, underscoring the high demand for support.
“We are inspired by the overwhelming response to the Fund’s first call for proposals, a clear sign of the dedication of small and independent publishers to shaping sustainable digital futures. Although demand has exceeded available funding and not all applications can be supported this time, we urge those who are not successful to remain engaged and reapply when the next funding call opens early next year,” said Anetta Mangxaba, Co-Chair of the DNTF Board.
The R114-million Fund is a partnership between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), administered by Tshikululu Social Investments. It is designed to help South African publishers build digital capacity, diversify revenue streams, and future-proof their operations.
Although applications were intended to be submitted exclusively through the Fund’s online portal, some applicants encountered technical issues early in the process. To ensure fair access, the Fund accepted proposals via email as an alternative.
“We responded promptly to some early portal challenges by opening up an email submission channel, ensuring all applicants had a fair opportunity to participate. We regret any inconvenience and remain committed to transparency and inclusivity at every stage,” said Leanne Kunz, Head of Fund.
Applicants that met the Phase 1 criteria have been shortlisted and invited to submit Phase 2 applications, open until 28 September 2025. All Phase 1 applicants have been notified of their status. Adjudication will take place from 29 September to 26 October, led by an independent committee of sector experts. Contracting is scheduled to begin in early November, with disbursements to follow upon receipt of signed agreements.
For more information about the Fund and its application process, please visit www.dntfund.org.za.
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About the Digital News Transformation Fund (DNT Fund)
The DNT Fund is a partnership between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) to support the digital transformation and sustainability of South Africa’s smalltomedium independent news publishers. The Fund provides project-based grants and capacity building to strengthen digital operations, audience development, and revenue diversification in public-interest journalism. It is governed by an independent board of diverse industry stakeholders and experts; neither AIP nor Google has decision-making authority.
About Tshikululu Social Investments (Fund Manager)
Founded in 1998, Tshikululu Social Investments is South Africa’s leading social investment manager and advisor. Tshikululu independently manages the DNT Fund’s operations, due diligence and impact reporting.
Media enquiries
PR Powerhouse | Yethu Dlamini | yethu@prpowerhouse.co.za | +27 065 998 0097
DNT Fund Communications | dntf@tshikululu.org.za | +27 11 544 0300
Googleis a global technology leader committed to advancing access to information. The Association of Independent Publishers (AIP)represents South Africa’s independent publishers, advocating for media diversity and sustainability.
