The A-Mark Foundation has announced a $10 million gift from its founder and board member, Steven C. Markoff, that will significantly expand the organization's capacity to support investigative journalism. This substantial donation comes at a critical time for journalism, as news organizations face increasing financial pressures that often force cuts to investigative reporting teams. The foundation's mission focuses specifically on supporting and promoting investigative journalism through grants and recognition programs.
This $10 million gift positions the A-Mark Foundation to dramatically increase its funding for investigative journalism in 2026. In 2025, the foundation distributed nearly $1 million in grants to support investigative reporting, making this new donation ten times larger than their previous annual funding level. The foundation's work recognizes excellence in reporting while investing in the next generation of investigative journalists, addressing both immediate needs and long-term sustainability for the field.
The importance of this funding cannot be overstated in today's media landscape. Investigative journalism serves as a crucial check on power, uncovering corruption, holding institutions accountable, and revealing information that would otherwise remain hidden from public view. Without adequate funding, many important stories go unreported, and the public's right to know is compromised. The A-Mark Foundation's expanded capacity comes as many traditional news organizations struggle to maintain investigative teams due to financial constraints.
For readers, this development means more thorough reporting on issues that affect their communities, governments, and daily lives. Investigative journalism has historically exposed environmental hazards, financial misconduct, public health threats, and governmental abuses that directly impact citizens' wellbeing. By strengthening the infrastructure that supports such reporting, the A-Mark Foundation helps ensure that vital information reaches the public. The foundation's focus on both recognizing excellence and investing in future journalists creates a comprehensive approach to sustaining this essential aspect of democracy.
The broader implications extend beyond individual news stories to the health of democratic institutions worldwide. Investigative journalism plays a fundamental role in maintaining transparent governance and informed citizenry. As the A-Mark Foundation expands its support through this $10 million gift, it contributes to preserving this critical function in society. More information about the foundation's work can be found at https://www.amarkfoundation.org.
