Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Public Media exploring merger as nonprofit

The Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Public Media are exploring the possibility of a merger to form one massive media company, according to multiple reports. 

Ownership of the two companies signed a nonbinding letter of intent, according to an announcement on Wednesday evening, with the stated goal of completing a potential merger by the end of 2021 and making the Sun-Times a subsidiary of Chicago Public Media, the newspaper reported. 

“I can confirm that we are currently exploring partnerships and opportunities with the Chicago Sun-Times to strengthen local journalism in the city and our region,” Chicago Public Media interim CEO Matt Moog wrote Wednesday morning. “These conversations are an important part of our commitment to serving Chicago and ensuring local news continues to thrive.”