Independent, in-depth journalism rooted in Billings.

Billings deserves serious, consistent local journalism — reporting that explains decisions, holds leaders accountable and connects the community.

Montana Free Press is ready to expand MTFP Local to Billings and Yellowstone County. With your support, we will launch dedicated reporting focused on the issues that shape daily life here.

Why Billings?

Across Montana, local newsrooms have shrunk and coverage gaps have widened. Important decisions about city government, schools, housing, health care and public safety often lack consistent, in-depth reporting.

Billings is the economic and cultural hub of eastern-central Montana; yet, residents often feel underserved by the existing local media. Our outreach revealed:

• Significant information gaps around local decision-making and public health
• Limited context in reporting due to shrinking local newsrooms
• Strong interest from community leaders and residents in collaborative, solutions-focused journalism

MTFP sees both a need and an opportunity to fill these gaps, creating reporting that is deeply rooted, accessible and sustainable.

What We Want to Build in Billings

Through MTFP Local, we are expanding our proven model of community-rooted reporting to Billings. With your support, we will:

Establish a Local Reporting Team. Hire Billings-based journalists who produce consistent, in-depth coverage of issues that shape daily life in Yellowstone County.

Build Community Trust. Host community-centered events, launch a Billings-focused newsletter and partner with civic organizations to ensure our reporting reflects local priorities.

Strengthen Accountability. Provide coverage of local government, elections, property taxes, housing, education and health care — with clear explanations of how decisions impact residents.

Reflect the Full Community. Ensure our reporting represents the people, neighborhoods, rural areas, and tribal communities that make up Billings and Yellowstone County.

Create Long-Term Sustainability. Build a long-term funding base through local philanthropy, partnerships and earned revenue — ensuring this reporting continues and grows.

MTFP Local Is Already Working

In 2023, Montana Free Press hired its first dedicated local reporter in Helena. In 2024, we expanded to Great Falls and Missoula.

Before launching these beats, we relied on freelance reporting across the state. But as local coverage gaps widened, we committed to building permanent, community-rooted reporting teams.

Now, Billings is the next community we’re ready to serve.

Ready to Help Strengthen Local News in Billings?