Investing in independent media

MDIF invests in independent media around the world providing the news, information and debate that people need to build free, thriving societies. We provide affordable debt and equity financing, supported by tailored technical assistance and advisory services, to help independent media thrive and safeguard their editorial independence. Our clients are companies who continue to hold the powerful to account, protect the rights of the individual and provide a platform for debate.

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Investing for impact

MDIF provides affordable debt and equity financing to independent media in a range of countries where access to free and independent news and information is under threat. For more than 20 years, our financing and technical assistance have helped scores of media organizations build robust businesses, strong enough to hold governments to account, expose corruption and provide a platform for debate.

$227.5m
total financing

363 projects
for 117 clients
in 41 countries

$107.6m current assets under management

Full track record

Our clients

From digital startups to national multi-platform broadcasters, whether in South America or Southeast Asia, MDIF clients are vital institutions that underpin open, vibrant societies. Many are leaders in their market, renowned for their fact-based reporting and informed opinion. MDIF investment helps each one of them to realize their full economic potential.

Our impact

MDIF has measurable impact on the financial viability of media businesses. By working with us, media grow audiences and sales, strengthening their economic independence and enabling them to deepen the social impact of their work.

Impact on clients

Our work helps clients grow stronger businesses

After five years of working with MDIF, client reach increased on average by 191%

After five years of working with MDIF, client sales increased on average by 218%

Impact on society

Our clients impact their societies in areas including

Social issues

Corruption and accountability

Elections

What’s new

Updates and resources from MDIF, our clients and the world of media investing.

Chin media outlets, Myanmar

Produced by the Myanmar Media Program (MMP), MDIF’s development program for independent media in Myanmar, the interactive map provides insight into the current Chin media landscape. The resource offers a…

30 December 2019

Resources

MMP releases report analysing Chin media

MDIF’s Myanmar Media Program has published a report analysing the Chin media sector. The report finds that there are currently 25 Chin media outlets operating in Myanmar, an anomalously high…

30 December 2019

Resources

MDIF seeking evaluation consultants

Media development project evaluation Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) is seeking a team of two consultants to carry out an evaluation of the set up and implementation of a…

18 November 2019

News

MAS provides specialist advice on launching membership models

With digital advertising failing to provide the revenues many media companies need to sustain their news operations, outlets around the world are looking for additional or alternative sources of income…

12 November 2019

News

See all updates

Funders and investors

MDIF funders and investors include a wide range of organizations and individuals who share our commitment to independent media. Their financing helps media companies in challenging environments build strong businesses that hold the powerful to account and foster economic, social and political development.