Teaming up is one sustainability option for community or niche news. Recently, the I-News Network (a Colorado-based nonprofit news service focused on in-depth state reporting) merged with two Denver public broadcasting affiliates -- one TV, and one radio.

According to Westword (a Denver alt weekly paper), in addition to I-News, the deal involves Denver public radio station KUVO-FM, and Rocky Mountain PBS. The boards of both broadcasting organizations have approved the merger. The FCC is reported "likely to approve the move within the next several months."

The deal will allow the two stations to combine some broadcasting resources, such as tower locations. It will also provide I-News with expanded and more consistent access to a statewide audience. Currently the stations are carrying a major I-News series Losing Ground -- a data-driven examination of growing inequality for minorities in the state.

Might such mergers be an option for news startups elsewhere? Perhaps.

KUVO acting CEO and program director Carlos Lando told Westword that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has been encouraging public broadcasting stations across the nation to explore new partnerships. "They're actually putting up funds to look at how we can have a greater impact on the community by combining resources," said Lando.