Suncoast Searchlight began with
a simple belief—every community 
deserves trusted, independent 
journalism.
In 2025, we transformed that belief into 
action, launching a nonprofit newsroom 
dedicated to investigative reporting, 
public accountability and meaningful 
community engagement across 
Sarasota, Manatee and
DeSoto counties.
In our first year, we built a talented 
newsroom, established media 
partnerships, launched our newsletter, 
hosted community conversations
and produced journalism that informed 
public dialogue and held power to 
account.
What started as an idea quickly became 
a trusted voice for our region. And this 
OUR FIRST YEAR
2025 Milestones
SUNCOASTSE ARCH LIG HT. ORG
First stories published and first 
newsletter sent on Feb. 21
FEBRUARY
Suncoast Searchlight launches
First free training for regional 
reporters focuses on public records
Journalism training begins
MARCH
Investigation with Florida Trident 
examines Sarasota County’s 
stormwater failures
First major reporting
collaboration
JUNE
Newsroom and fundraising capacity 
expand with two key hires
Growing our team
SEPTEMBER
First Searchlight Series event 
features former New York Times 
Executive Editor Dean Baquet
Community engagement
series launches
NOVEMBER
Suncoast Searchlight reporting 
is named finalist in statewide 
journalism contest
First journalism honors
announced
DECEMBER

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