Park Center for Independent Media

Launched in 2008, the Park Center for Independent Media is a national center for the study of media outlets that create and distribute content outside traditional corporate systems and news organizations. Throughout history, technological and social upheaval have given rise to independent media voices. Today, independent media are growing amidst crisis and conglomeration inside mainstream journalism, and the rise of the Internet and new forms of media production and distribution. 

The center's mission is to engage media makers and students in conversation about career paths in independent media, and financially viable ways to create news and information for various kinds of geographic or issue-based communities. The center examines the impact of independent media institutions on journalism, democracy and a participatory culture.