Dealflow | November 30, 2021

Media Development Investment Fund backs Pluralis to invest in independent media in Europe

Roodgally Senatus
ImpactAlpha Editor

Roodgally Senatus

ImpactAlpha, November 30 — The decline of independent global news outlets has accelerated with rising news censorship and danger for journalists. MDFI’s Emerging Media Opportunity Fund has backed nearly a dozen media companies in emerging markets.

In Europe, MDFI backed Amsterdam-based Pluralis to invest in independent media organizations providing quality reporting in Europe.

Other investors include King Baudouin Foundation, Soros Economic Development Fund, Tinius Trust and Mediahuis, “all of whom value the importance of media pluralism and independence,” said MDIF’s Harlan Mandel.

Independent media

Pluralis acquired a 40% stake in Gremi Media, a Polish business and law media company, after taking a 34% stake in Slovakia’s Petit Press.

Gremi and Petit Press are “leading sources of reliable and diverse opinion in their countries and our investments can help them deliver on their growth strategies,” said Pluralis’ Thomas Leysen.