A new community news company has launched in our own backyard.
Main Street Connect, which is based in Norwalk, is a national community news company started by Carll Tucker, the former editor and publisher of Trader Publications, a community news company which formerly published The Patent Trader. Main Street specializes in hyperlocal news sites, but rather than the approach of companies like Patch.com, Main Street is set up for local entrepreneurs to become affiliates of the company. With an initial investment (and after qualifying), Main Street will help affiliates set up their sites and work with them to launch profitable, hyperlocal news outlets that can attract local advertisers. Rather than use a “one size fits all” model, these sites grow organically from people who actually live there. The Daily Norwalk has already launched via Main Street Connect.
It is an interesting business model and we will be sure to keep an eye on Main Street Connect.
