Local News in a Digital World: Navigating the New Information Era

Join us at #NMLNFSummit—where journalists, students, funders & community unite to reimagine how local news works & how it can work better.

We want this summit to be accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, or if you need assistance with ticket purchase options, please reach out to us. We are happy to work with you to find a solution. summit@nmlocalnews.org.

The New Mexico Local News Fund invites you to join us for the 2026 NMLNF Summit, a two-day national gathering focused on the future of local news and information. While rooted in New Mexico’s unique communities, this summit is designed to welcome participants from across the United States who care about how local news works—and how it can work better.

Download the Whova app to access session times, speakers, attendees, and more event information.

In today’s rapidly shifting information landscape, the stakes have never been higher. Local news is under pressure from shrinking resources, misinformation, and the challenges of digital transformation. At the same time, communities everywhere are innovating, creating new pathways for truth, trust, and civic connection. This summit is about bringing those efforts together—across states, sectors, and experiences—to build a stronger information ecosystem for us all.

Topics we’ll explore include:

• AI + Cybersecurity in journalism and nonprofit communications
• Funding Models + Sustainability for local and rural news
• Civic Engagement through community-led storytelling
• Bilingual/Multilingual Media and expanding access to information
• Student Media + Emerging Voices shaping the next generation
• Philanthropy’s Role in building equitable information systems
• Tech + Storytelling Tools that are practical and people-centered
• Creative and Nontraditional Formats—from performance art to zines and beyond

Whether you are reporting from a rural town, experimenting with bilingual coverage, researching technology’s impact, or funding media innovation, this summit is designed to create space for collaboration and action.

Why Attend?

• Connect with peers and partners across journalism, philanthropy, education, and technology.
• Learn practical tools and strategies for strengthening local information systems.
• Contribute to building a more sustainable, equitable, and community-centered news ecosystem.
• Be part of shaping the conversation about what comes next for local news in New Mexico.

Together, we will imagine, collaborate, and take action toward a stronger, more connected local news ecosystem.

Accommodations & More Information

We’ve secured a room block at Hotel Parq Central with special summit rates available to attendees. For details on accommodations, travel, and ongoing summit updates, please visit our website.

We believe access to conversations about local news, technology, and community should not be limited by cost. A limited number of summit stipends (up to $250) are available for those who need support with registration or participation expenses.

If you are requesting an attendance stipend, please let us know which ticket you are seeking (one-day or two-day) and whether you need support for registration only or also for travel-related costs. No additional documentation is required. Submit via email to: summit@nmlocalnews.org.

* Please purchase tickets seperatly for each attendee so we can ensure proper registration and name badges are generated. *

Download the Whova app to access session times, speakers, attendees, and more event information.