The Virginia Center for Investigative Journalism is an independent, nonprofit newsroom. Its core mission is to produce stories that improve the lives of Virginians across the state.
Our focus
VCIJ will create hard-hitting, informative local journalism and provide opportunity and guidance to college students.
“Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.”
— James madison
The need is clear. Virginia has lost 28 newspapers and hundreds of journalists since 2004. Important issues -- education, military affairs, environmental regulations, criminal justice reform and growing inequality -- are getting less and less attention.
Community Engagement
VCIJ will widely distribute articles, create multi-platform storytelling and host public discussions around its work in colleges, libraries and municipal centers.
28
newspapers shuttered in Virginia since 2004
37%
decrease in news circulation last 15 years
6
counties in Virginia have no newspaper coverage at all
It will pair veteran journalists with advanced university students for reporting and research.
The work will help shape the next generation of journalists, who must come to understand the constitutional role of a free press and the importance of high-level, fact-based journalism.
Get Involved
Now, more than ever, citizens need strong, watchdog reporting looking out for their best interests. We vow to be transparent in our reporting, giving you access to how our stories come together and sharing relevant documents and data. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to be informed and provide you a place to be engaged. Only then will democracy flourish.