Who is making the Challenge?

A consortium of four foundations, together called The Challenge Fund for Journalism (CFJ). They are the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation, Ford Foundation, James L. and John S. Knight Foundation and McCormick-Tribune Foundation.

What is the purpose of the Challenge?

To help journalism organizations improve their long-term financial health and sustainability by cultivating support from more individual donors.

How was IJNR selected for this Challenge?

IJNR was invited to apply for the grant. A rigorous, competitive screening reduced the initial field from 23 candidates to 12 winners. IJNR was awarded one of the largest grants.

How much money must IJNR raise?

In order to receive the $75,000 matching grant from the CFJ, IJNR must raise $113,000.

What is the time frame of the Challenge?

Exactly one year:
From August 9, 2007 to August 8, 2008

What kinds of donations will qualify toward fulfillment of the Challenge?

• Contributions from NEW individual donors, including spouses and significant others of past donors

• New contributions from past donors will count, at least in part.

  For donors who have not contributed more recently than August 8, 2004, the entire amount of the any new gift will count.

  For past donors who have contributed since August 9, 2004, only the amount of increase over the highest, single prior donation since August 9, 2004, will count toward the Challenge.

  To refresh your memory about your past giving history, call Maggie Allen at 406-273-3523.

• Some Family Foundations (contact Maggie Allen for details)