Chicago Public Media, which operates WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, has announced a six-month pilot partnership with the Chicago Reader. The initiative aims to explore new ways of collaborating on advertising and sponsorships to support local media.
The two organizations will work together to create joint advertising and sponsorship packages that offer placements across the Chicago Reader, WBEZ, and the Chicago Sun-Times. Revenue from these efforts will be shared between both groups. This approach is intended to help both organizations increase sales and better understand effective strategies for local media sales.
Amber Nettles, director of advertising and revenue products at the Chicago Reader, said: “This collaboration represents a forward-thinking approach to sustaining local media. Independent outlets like the Reader and Chicago Public Media each bring distinct strengths, and by aligning our efforts, we can create more value for advertisers, deepen audience engagement, and build a more resilient foundation for community-focused journalism in Chicago.”
Will Weibert, senior director of advertising at the Chicago Sun-Times, added: “This is about building something together. Advertisers are looking for authentic ways to show up for Chicago, and by teaming up, we can make that easier and more effective.”
The pilot will also assess whether a longer-term partnership could be beneficial while maintaining editorial independence for both organizations.
Tracy Brown, chief partnership officer at Chicago Public Media stated: “The moment is now for local journalism to forge a path of collaboration over competition. The Reader and Chicago Public Media are joining forces to benefit Chicago as a whole. We’re building on the momentum of previous editorial collaborations and bringing the business side of media to the forefront.”
According to information provided by both organizations, this effort marks an important step toward ensuring financial sustainability for independent news outlets in Chicago through collaboration rather than competition.
Chicago Public Media serves over 4 million people weekly through its radio station WBEZ 91.5 FM, print publication the Sun-Times, digital platforms including Vocalo. The organization focuses on providing accessible news coverage across broadcast, print, and digital channels.
The Chicago Reader has covered arts and culture in the city for more than five decades as an independent voice with weekly print editions and daily online updates.
