Pay-to-play only works when the value for money is airtight

Local and/or niche news publishers show that people are willing to pay for journalism that aligns with their values and principles, and stories in which they can see themselves represented.

While many decry the expectation of free news, a model whereby the financing of journalism was downloaded from advertising dollars to consumer dollars was unsustainable, writes Erica Ifill. Unsplash photograph by Priscilla Du Preez

Opinion

BY ERICA IFILL

February 21, 2024

CALGARY—Once hailed as the antidote to dwindling revenues, particularly for the now-tattered newspaper business, the subscription model is also failing in its promise.

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