Although there are several hundred NGOs working to support independent print, broadcast, and internet media in the developing world, there had never been a substantive opportunity to share information and resources, either informally or through a cooperative association. The Lodestar Foundation provided initial seed implementation grants of $150,000 (which led to approximately $1,500,000 more in grants from other foundations) for the first collaborative conference of independent media support NGOs from around the world, the first Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD). The conference, which was held in Amman, Jordan, brought together approximately 500 participants representing 180 media support organizations from 104 countries. Since then, GFMD has become a permanent ongoing collaborative organization, with a secretariat office in Brussels and five regional operations around the world and The Lodestar Foundation has provided additional conference support.
Grant Information
Grant Amount: $250,000
Year Granted: 2004+
Grantee: Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)
Location: International
Grantee Website: Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)