First announced at the Society of Editors' conference in March as part of the government's Local Media Action Plan, the fund has been set-up to support the long-term sustainability of the local news sector as well as addressing "news deserts".
The majority of funding has been awarded to local print and online news outlets and independent local TV and radio stations with grants received of up to £125,000. Seven organisations, including software developers, have been given up to £275,000 to develop infrastructure that can benefit the sector as a whole.
Media Minister Ian Murray said: "For decades our local media has remained among the most trusted sources of news. But as the media landscape has become more complex, many outlets have been forced to reduce their numbers or even close. I am determined not to leave local journalism to collapse. This government knows it is critical to communities and fosters a self-confident nation that everyone feels part of.
"Through the Local News Fund we are taking action to help newsrooms innovate and adapt their business models for the online world, while incentivising and encouraging the production of high-quality, trustworthy news that Britain’s towns and villages deserve and rely on."
A full list of recipients can be seen here.
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