The Fort Collins Report has been awarded a $1,000 Emergency Mode for News (EMFN) Scholarship, as part of a national initiative designed to strengthen local journalism during times of crisis.
The scholarship program, a collaboration between OpenNews, Newspack, and NC Local and funded by Press Forward, supports journalists and newsrooms preparing to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies. The competitive program equips participants with funding, tools, and training to improve disaster coverage and community communication.
Fort Collins Report was selected for its proposal to build a ready-to-deploy emergency reporting kit aimed at improving coverage of wildfires, severe weather, and public safety incidents.
“This funding allows us to take a major step forward in both the safety of our reporters and the accuracy and speed of our reporting when it matters most,” said the newsroom in its application.
The proposed kit includes a DJI Mini 4K drone to capture aerial visuals during active incidents, helping provide the public with clearer situational awareness. Additional investments include press identification to ensure reporters are visible in chaotic environments, as well as CB radios, power banks, and essential “go-bag” supplies to maintain operations during power outages or network disruptions.
As a small but growing nonprofit newsroom, Fort Collins Report currently lacks dedicated field equipment for high-risk scenarios. The EMFN funding will enable the organization to build a durable, reusable system that enhances both preparedness and response.
Emergency Mode for News is designed for newsroom “planners and activators”, the journalists tasked with mobilizing coverage when unexpected events strike. Through both financial support and collaborative peer learning, the program aims to ensure local communities receive timely, reliable information during crises.
With wildfire seasons intensifying and extreme weather events becoming more frequent, investments like these are becoming critical for local news organizations.
“This is about being ready before the emergency happens,” the newsroom noted. “It ensures our community has access to reliable, real-time information when it needs it most.”
The Fort Collins Report plans to begin assembling its emergency reporting kit immediately, with the goal of having systems in place ahead of peak wildfire season.
Those interested in learning more about the scholarship fund and sponsor can follow this link here: https://emfn.opennews.org/
Fort Collins Report is a nonprofit local news organization focused on public-service and accountability journalism in Fort Collins. Its reporting centers community impact, civic transparency, and accessible coverage of the institutions and decisions that shape local life. If you value this reporting, consider donating to us at fcreport.org/donate.