On Thursday, Sept. 3, foundation leaders, journalists and concerned citizens gathered here at SaveTheNews.org to discuss the role of foundations in the future of journalism.

Many participants were enthusiastic about what appears to be a new era in foundation funding for local, state and national reporting projects. As more foundations turn their attention to the news and information needs of communities, participants expressed hope that this funding model could help to develop a strong and vibrant noncommercial journalism sector in America.

Participants were also cognizant, however, of the challenges this model faces. Concerns were raised about foundations’ tendency to fund new and emerging work for the short term rather than the long term, and debated the most strategic areas foundations should support. There was also significant debate over the potential for any funder – charitable or otherwise – to exert editorial influence, and participants kicked around ideas for how publications could remain independent.

Building on the week-long series of guest blogs on this topic posted here at SaveTheNews.org, the discussion was rich and productive. Panelists and guests included: Steve Katz of Mother Jones, David Westphal from USC's Annenberg School for Communication, Vince Stehle of the Surdna Foundation and Ben Shute of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.

View the entire event below and add your thoughts to the comments section: