Local Media Consortium Launches AI Program.

The Local Media Consortium has launched a new program aimed at helping local media companies evaluate and implement artificial intelligence strategies to improve operations, business performance and long-term sustainability.

According to a news release, the AI Accelerator will include an AI Readiness & Digital Tech Stack Assessment conducted by the LMC in partnership with Stellis AI. The assessment will evaluate participating organizations’ technology environments, AI readiness, operational priorities and potential opportunities for implementation.

The initiative comes as AI becomes a greater priority for local media organizations. In a recent LMC industry survey, 46% of respondents identified AI for operations as one of the top trends on their radar for 2026.

The assessment is based on a survey that began Aug. 25. Its findings are intended to help participating organizations identify ways to improve workflows, increase efficiency, reduce costs, strengthen audience engagement and develop new revenue opportunities.

“Artificial intelligence has quickly moved from a future consideration to an active business priority for many local media organizations,” says Fran Wills, CEO of the Local Media Consortium. “Our members are looking for practical guidance on where AI can create the greatest impact for their organizations. The AI Accelerator will help participants assess their readiness, identify opportunities and build a roadmap for implementation so they can make informed decisions with confidence.”

Participating organizations will receive individualized findings and recommendations to assist with planning and future implementation. Results will remain proprietary to the participating organizations and the LMC, while aggregated findings will be used to shape future AI education, programming, partnerships and support resources.

The AI Accelerator is part of a broader effort by the LMC and Digital On-Demand Services, or DODS, which connects local media organizations with outside experts and helps manage projects from development through execution.

The assessment is supported by funding from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation through the News Media Help Desk, an online resource created by the LMC and the Reynolds Journalism Institute to help newsrooms make strategic decisions aimed at sustaining local media.

“By helping organizations move from AI experimentation to implementation, this initiative will provide the LMC with valuable insights into the needs and priorities of its membership,” says Liz Hayes, Program Manager for DODS. “Those insights will inform future training programs, educational resources, strategic partnerships and services designed to support local media organizations as they navigate a rapidly evolving technology landscape.”