JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – When WJCT Public Media faced state and federal funding cuts, the organization didn’t just survive—it thrived. In this revealing conversation on This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, President & CEO David McGowan discusses how more than 1,000 donors contributed over $1 million to support independent local media, making WJCT 100% community-funded.
Discover how WJCT is expanding its impact through:
Digital innovation with Jacksonville Today reaching 50,000 subscribers
Early childhood education programs growing to 12 sites
New independent film series featuring 25 upcoming screenings
Record audience engagement in local news
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McGowan shares insights on building sustainable community support and how local ownership enables WJCT to respond directly to community needs.
This episode offers valuable lessons for media organizations navigating changing funding landscapes while staying true to their public service mission.
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