News Publishing Startup Civil Brings In $5 Million

Civil announced the close of $5 million in financing from ConsenSys.

By using the latest technology in artificial intelligence and blockchain, Civil’s self-governing marketplace aims to solve the current “Fake News” problem by allowing citizens to directly sponsor newsrooms, and journalists to collaboratively run their own publications. The platform scores newsmakers on their adherence to Civil’s accuracy standards and journalistic ethics, and provides transparent sourcing and media literacy tips to give readers the tools needed to interpret the news. The company’s recommendation engine also breaks down “echo chambers” by showing readers diverse perspectives on the news. Initially, the platform will focus on local, policy, and investigative reporting.

Civil has dedicated one million dollars to fund the “first fleet” of journalists creating their own newsrooms and publications.