In order to strengthen investigative reporting in Florida, Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice, the Community Foundation of Central Florida and the Center for Independent Media will create a nonprofit, statewide online news network. The Florida Independent will provide original investigative reports on subjects currently under-covered at the state level and link communities’ issues with reporting in the state capital. Experienced Florida journalists will lead coverage of topics such as aging, health care, housing and social services and use online tools to engage with and connect interested residents. An advisory board will ensure fairness. The site will strive to safeguard the public’s interest by providing critical information on issues that affect Floridians.