Financing
Starving independent media of finance is one of the most effective ways for governments to stifle criticism. News outlets that are denied capital to grow - particularly in times of dynamic technological change - will wither and die. Standing still is not an option.
A key investment, such as a printing press, new transmitters or a vigorous marketing campaign, can profoundly alter a media company's prospects - if it has the management skills to take full advantage of it. MDLF provides its clients with the financing required for such investments, while helping the company build its management capacity to fully leverage them. MDLF carefully considers the details of each project before setting the interest rate - the current average is about 6.5%.
We typically finance projects that strongly advance a news organisation's economic potential:
- printing presses
- more powerful transmitters
- upgraded audio/video production equipment
- construction of broadcast facilities and printing houses
- working capital for growth and expansion
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.
Track record
From 1996 to 31 December 2009, MDLF has provided $94.6 million in affordable financing, including:
• $82.3 million in loans and equity investments;
• $1.1 million in technical assistance grants;
• $10.7 million in other grants;
• $0.5 million through Digital Kiosk, the secure payment service for independent media.
MDLF has financed 206 projects for 72 independent media companies in 24 countries and has written off only 1.98% of the total loaned and invested.
MDLF ended December 2009 with a portfolio of approximately $38.3 million in outstanding loans and investments.
