And all those sites are struggling and barely making money. It's a tough, tough scene. That's why Gawker pivoted into national news and celeb gossip a few years back. The only way to make lots of money from blog advertising (i.e. enough to support a full-time staff) is to snag national brand dollars. Indi hyperlocals are beloved and do great stuff, but they're replacing companies that used to make millions providing similar services.
Agree completely. The hyperlocals seem like they'll be cost-covering only operations run by what amount to dedicated, self-motivated volunteers. Big wads of cash do not seem to be in their futures anytime soon.
I agree the money isn't flowing in yet, but I have no doubt it will. That's where my last line about demographics comes into play. It's hilarious/depressing that a generation with the demand for more information than ever before, and the technology to make it happen, is written off.
"That group doesn't read news." Sure they do. Just on Twitter or Facebook, or in texts.
Also, I wonder if a tv station will ever attempt to contract these sites directly as bureaus. Pay them as a reporter, but let them work for themselves as well. Just demand copyright save a non-transferable license to the reporter. That would give more money, and thus more resources, to a reporter.
