EmpowerLocal And Search.com Expand Partnership to Bring Gen AI Revenue Tools to More Than 1,000 Local News Publishers

EmpowerLocal, the nation’s first nationwide network of independent, community news, sports, and lifestyle media, announced an expanded partnership with Search.com, the new GenAI platform of Public Good. The collaboration will bring a GenAI-powered search widget to more than 1,000 community publishers nationwide, offering a powerful way to engage readers and consumers.

Across the country, local news outlets face mounting challenges in sustaining operations due to declining revenue. EmpowerLocal addresses this issue by offering smaller and mid-sized publishers the ability to connect with premium brands.

“Since 2021, Public Good has been a key part of our solution for local publications, and we are excited to extend that partnership with their new division Search.com,” said Steven Burnham, CEO, EmpowerLocal. “This innovation will drive reader engagement and potential new revenue streams to support local publishers, which is our mission.”

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Search.com allows advertisers to connect with consumers directly within generative AI-powered chat experiences when people are actively researching products, services, and recommendations. At the heart of this innovation is the Search.com widget, which can be embedded into publisher websites to provide readers with an interactive AI-driven chat experience.

“EmpowerLocal and Public Good share the belief that access to trusted local news and information is fundamental to our way of life,” said Melissa Anderson, President, Public Good. “Together, we are committed to delivering tools and solutions that help local publishers thrive—not just survive.”

Through this expanded partnership, EmpowerLocal publishers nationwide can now o***** to host the Search.com widget, enhancing reader engagement while capturing new, sustainable revenue opportunities.

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