Broad + Liberty unites with Access Network in strategic acquisition, creating one of PA’s largest native digital media audiences

Two of the region’s fastest-growing media companies, Broad + Liberty and Access Network, have officially joined forces, with Broad + Liberty acquiring Access Network to form a united, cutting-edge state and local multimedia company serving Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The new company, Fideri News Network, combines award-winning journalism, balanced political coverage, local news, sports, podcasts, digital content, radio, e-commerce, and event ticketing under one mission. By pairing editorial excellence with business innovation and scalable infrastructure, Fideri aims to build a sustainable model for revitalized local media in one of the nation’s most historically significant—and fiercely contested—media landscapes.

At a time when local journalism is vanishing nationwide, and PA and NJ markets are left behind by legacy newsrooms, the need for community-rooted media has never been greater. A free and open society depends not just on national headlines, but on local voices—those who understand the stakes of a school board vote, a county budget, or a contested judicial race.

That’s why Fideri will deliver more than headlines. Through WBCB Sports and OnPattison.com, we’ll grow the coverage fans already rely on—from Friday night high school matchups to smart, engaging commentary on the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers that cuts through the noise and speaks directly to Philly sports fans. With podcasts, short-form video, broadcast radio, and more across sports, culture, local news, and politics, Fideri is building a dynamic multimedia ecosystem that meets people where they are.

    The Fideri News Network brand
  

Principled local journalism serves as both a mirror and a compass. It reflects the lived experiences of our communities while guiding public discourse with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to truth over narrative. This new initiative aims to revive the civic fabric of our region by giving readers the context, facts, and voices they need to participate fully and faithfully in our shared public life.

“Broad + Liberty was founded with the belief that local media must do more than simply report — it must inform with clarity, challenge with civility, and hold power to account without fear or favor.” said Terry Tracy, founder and CEO of Broad + Liberty.

James McDonald, founder and CEO of Access Network, added, “We believe we have a strong model and strategy to be the leader in the local digital news marketplace and have combined assets to position the company as such right from the start. I'm excited about helping to scale the company rapidly.”

Tracy continued, “In an age of polarization and information overload, restoring trust by telling stories other outlets won’t is central to the company’s mission. Hence, the choice of the name Fideri—drawn from the Latin root meaning ‘to trust’ or ‘to be faithful.’ It is a reminder that trust is not given—it is earned, story by story, through diligence, fairness, and the courage to speak when silence is more convenient.”

In bearing that name, Fideri affirms its role not only as a reporter of news, but as a steward of the public good.

Fideri represents commitment to the facts, to the communities served, and to the timeless principles that uphold our institutions and bind us together.

Leadership & Governance 

The combined company will operate with a unified leadership structure:

● Terry Tracy, CEO of Broad + Liberty, will lead the content strategy and oversee all day-to-day operations as Publisher and Chief Executive Officer.

● James McDonald, founder and CEO of Access Network, will continue as Chairman and board member, overseeing governance and corporate development.

This structure supports ambitious multi-market growth while preserving the editorial integrity and mission of each brand.

Additionally, the company is poised to announce the acquisition of 10 more clustered sites within the next 30 days. This will bring the number of sites to 29, creating one of the largest native digital media audiences in Pennsylvania, including the Philadelphia metropolitan area and Jersey Shore.

Commerce, Events & Multimedia 

Beyond journalism, the company offers integrated services that generate revenue and deepen community ties:

● Event Ticketing & Registration for festivals, attractions, and fundraisers

● E-Commerce for local products and small business affiliates

● Advertising & Sponsorships, newsletters, native content, programmatic display and paid content programs

 A New Model for Local Media 

This merger is not just about growth; it’s a blueprint. The network model demonstrates that local news can be both principled and self-sufficient through smart governance, market alignment, and community-centered innovation.

The company plans continued expansion into underserved markets, with a focus on restoring vital local coverage, supporting economic development, and connecting communities through journalism and commerce.

Media Contacts: Olivia DeMarco [email protected] | Taylor Tappen [email protected]