About MDLF
Media Development Loan Fund is a mission-driven investment fund for independent news outlets in countries with a history of media oppression. We provide low-cost capital and technical know-how to help journalists in challenging environments build sustainable businesses around professional, responsible, quality journalism.
Working in Africa, Asia, Latin America, Southeast Europe and the CIS, we help essential independent news providers to expand their audience, improve their news products and become financially self-sustainable.
MDLF provides leading journalists with the support they need to create lasting institutions for change.
Watch a short film in which six of our clients tell their stories and explain the effect MDLF has had on their businesses (a 2-minute version is also available).
Take a look at our stunning 15th anniversary book of photographs and essays capturing some the most important global news stories from the past decade and a half.
Founded in 1995, MDLF is a New York-registered not-for-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) public charity status.
Invest in press freedom
It's easy to invest in MDLF's work, providing independent news businesses with the financing they need to hold governments to account, expose corruption and fight for justice for all.
Impact
- In 2010, more than 38 million people in developing democracies got their news from MDLF clients.
- After five years with MDLF, clients on average increase their sales by 213%.
- For every $10,000 invested in 2010, MDLF supported access to independent news for 8,944 readers, listeners and viewers.
- After 1 year of working with MDLF, client reach grows by an average of 33% and after 5 years by 71%.
