Microsoft and OpenAI Launch $10M Program to Bring AI Tools to Local Newsrooms

Microsoft and OpenAI Launch $10M Program to Bring AI Tools to Local Newsrooms

Microsoft and OpenAI are investing up to $10 million to help local news organizations implement artificial intelligence in their operations. The initiative, announced Tuesday in partnership with the Lenfest Institute for Journalism, will provide funding and resources to five major metropolitan newsrooms, with three more to be selected later.

Each selected outlet will receive funding to hire a two-year AI fellow, along with $5 million worth of combined cash and technology credits split between Microsoft Azure and OpenAI services. The program aims to help local news organizations develop new revenue streams and improve their operations using AI tools.

The first round of recipients includes Chicago Public Media, The Minnesota Star Tribune, Newsday, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and The Seattle Times. These newsrooms will explore various AI applications, from creating automated transcription services to developing conversational search tools for their archives.

"We need local journalism to inform and educate citizens, expose wrongdoing, and encourage civic engagement," says Teresa Hutson, Microsoft's corporate vice president of technology for fundamental rights. "We hope these news organizations will be lighthouses for the industry."

The selected newsrooms will share their findings with the broader journalism community, creating a collaborative framework for AI adoption in local news. For example, The Philadelphia Inquirer plans to build an AI-powered interface to search its archives, while Chicago Public Media will focus on using AI for content translation and summarization to reach new audiences.

The program is part of the Lenfest Institute's Local Independent News Coalition, which includes eight of the largest independently owned metropolitan news organizations in the United States. These outlets will work together to develop AI solutions that uphold journalistic standards while strengthening their business models.

Tom Rubin, OpenAI's chief of intellectual property and content, emphasizes that while AI won't replace reporters, it can enhance their work: "AI technology can help in the research, investigation, distribution, and monetization of important journalism."

The remaining three fellowship positions will be awarded in a second round of grants, with dates to be announced.

Chris McKay is the founder and chief editor of Maginative. His thought leadership in AI literacy and strategic AI adoption has been recognized by top academic institutions, media, and global brands.

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