Seven Days Publisher Emphasizes People-Powered Journalism and Diverse Funding Strategies
Paula Routly, publisher, editor-in-chief, and cofounder of Seven Days, highlighted the critical role of dedicated staff and diversified funding in sustaining local journalism. Routly noted the newspaper's 31 years of operation and the unusual loyalty of its employees, many of whom have been with the publication for decades despite modest compensation. She emphasized that the staff's commitment stems from their desire to contribute to a high-quality local publication that connects and improves the community. Routly also discussed the increasing complexity and challenges of running a media business, stressing that relying on a single funding source is too risky. Seven Days is actively pursuing various revenue streams, including advertising, events, licensing, sponsorships, membership, and philanthropy, with grants and voluntary subscriptions now accounting for 15% of its revenue, up from zero before the pandemic.
