Donor Transparency Policy
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure transparency, integrity, and public trust in the financial support that sustains What’s Up Worcester News, Inc. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public media organization, we are committed to full openness about our funding sources while protecting the editorial independence of our newsroom.
Commitment to Transparency
What’s Up Worcester News, Inc. publicly discloses all donors and institutional funders who contribute $5,000 or more per year.
We believe that our readers and community members have a right to know who supports our work and to trust that no donation influences our editorial coverage.
Donor Influence
- Acceptance of financial support does not mean endorsement of donors or their products, services, or opinions.
- Donors, sponsors, or grantmakers have no influence over What’s Up Worcester’s editorial decisions, story selection, or content.
- Our Editor-in-Chief and editorial staff maintain full control over all published materials and uphold the principles outlined in our Editorial Independence Policy.
Disclosure Practices
- We maintain an updated list of major donors on our website and in our annual report.
- Donor names and contribution ranges will be disclosed unless a donor specifically requests anonymity and their support does not present a potential conflict of interest.
- Anonymous gifts will be accepted only if they do not compromise transparency or raise questions about our independence or integrity.
Grant Funding and Institutional Support
What’s Up Worcester may receive funding from foundations, government agencies, or corporate sponsors to support general operations or specific projects.
Such support will always be publicly acknowledged and will not determine or influence editorial content. Any funded projects will clearly disclose the nature of that support when relevant to coverage.
Conflict of Interest
We will decline any contribution that could compromise, or appear to compromise, our editorial neutrality or public trust. All staff and board members are required to disclose potential conflicts of interest related to donors or sponsors.
Public Accountability
We welcome public feedback about our funding practices and strive to remain accountable to the Worcester community we serve.
Questions or concerns about donor transparency can be directed to jfilmore@whatsupworcester.com
Approved by: Board of Directors, What’s Up Worcester News, Inc.
Effective Date: October 2025
Contact: jfilmore@whatsupworcester.com