Tucson Spotlight has been named a finalist for the New Business of the Year award by Local Independent Online News Publishers, a national organization that supports independent online news outlets.

The award recognizes newsrooms founded after Jan. 1 of the previous year that show a strong early commitment to sustainability through operational resilience, financial health and journalistic impact.

Tucson Spotlight, one of three finalists selected from more than 250 submissions, was chosen for its community-driven approach and rapid growth since launching in September 2024.

Founded to fill critical gaps in coverage across Southern Arizona, Tucson Spotlight produces bilingual, community-focused reporting led by local and emerging journalists.

“This recognition affirms that we’re building something meaningful and lasting. We’ve created a newsroom that produces impactful, bilingual journalism while investing in local talent and community partnerships,” said Tucson Spotlight co-founder Caitlin Schmidt. “Being named a finalist reinforces our belief that sustainable, community-centered news is not only possible, it’s essential, and deeply valued by the people we serve.”

In less than a year, the newsroom has published hundreds of stories in English and Spanish, built a strong social media presence and created paid opportunities for student and early-career reporters.

Its mission centers on improving access to civic information in historically underserved communities.

The New Business of the Year award is part of LION’s broader Sustainability Awards program, which honors excellence and innovation in independent digital journalism.

Winners will be announced live during the LION Sustainability Awards Ceremony and Dinner, held Sept. 3, as part of the Independent News Sustainability Summit in St. Louis.

Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation.