$10 million gift from Steven C. Markoff to support investigative journalism and invest in the next generation of reporters

The A-Mark Foundation announced that it has received a $10 million gift from its founder and board member, Steven C. Markoff, significantly expanding the foundation’s ability to support investigative journalism and invest in the next generation of reporters.

Foundation leaders said the gift will accelerate A-Mark’s mission to recognize excellence in investigative reporting and strengthen journalism education at multiple career stages.

Board Chair Justin Jampol called the donation a major endorsement of the foundation’s work and a catalyst for deeper impact. He said the funding will allow A-Mark to move more decisively on its priorities and expand programs that reflect its core values.

A-Mark supports investigative journalism through three programs. In 2025, the A-Mark Prizes for Investigative Reporting honored top investigative work in 30 states.

The foundation also awarded journalism master’s scholarships to 23 graduate students and launched student journalism awards at nine community colleges to support campus newsrooms.

The investigations recognized by A-Mark last year produced tangible real-world outcomes. One prize-winning series led to a district court ruling that resulted in nine people being released from jail and 10 convictions overturned.

Other award-winning reporting prompted criminal investigations at the state and federal levels, legislative and policy reforms, increased public funding, and the creation of new services for vulnerable communities.

In 2025, A-Mark awarded nearly $1 million in grants, with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $18,500. The foundation expects to substantially increase its support for investigative reporting in 2026, made possible by Markoff’s $10 million contribution.

Jampol said he is deeply grateful to Markoff for his generosity and long-standing commitment to investigative journalism, noting that the gift positions the foundation for thoughtful and sustained growth.