Announcement

The Fourth Estate Public Benefit Corp formally concluded operations in 2025.

As a Public Benefit Corporation, we have held paramount the best interests of society—especially those directly impacted by our benefit purpose. We were founded on the belief that journalism in the public interest has the power to transform lives and leave an enduring impact on the communities it serves. That conviction endures.

Our vision has been a world in which people are equipped with the news and information they need to make wise decisions about their lives, their communities, their societies, and their governments. Our mission has been to contribute to a healthy society by fostering, supporting, and incubating a sustainable and vibrant free press.

Throughout our work, we have been guided by our core values of Truth, Transparency, and Community. These principles shaped our standards, informed our stewardship, and anchored our commitment to the public trust. We have maintained that an independent and sustainable free press is strengthened by established and equitable free-market principles—and we believe firmly in the business of news and journalism.

While the organization has concluded its operations, its Journalism Code of Practice remains publicly available and continues to stand as a statement of principles for ethical, independent journalism. It may be accessed here:

The need for principled, independent journalism endures. We remain confident in those who continue the work.

Thank you for being part of this chapter in service of the public interest.

W. Jeffrey Brown

Founder & Executive Director
Fourth Estate Public Benefit Corp.

---