Tapinto

TAPinto.net is a franchise network of more than 95 independently owned local news and digital marketing platforms serving communities in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Founded in 2008 by Michael and Lauryn Shapiro in New Providence, New Jersey, TAPinto delivers original, objective, and daily local news to communities where traditional newspapers are disappearing or being acquired by national operations. Each TAPinto site is independently owned and operated, with franchisees following strict ethical guidelines, including adherence to the SPJ Code of Ethics, clear disclosure of ownership and advertising, fact-checking, and a prohibition on editorializing or political endorsements. TAPinto’s award-winning journalists consistently break exclusive stories that impact their communities. The network celebrates accessibility by providing free, paywall-free news and actively supporting charitable causes such as the American Heart Association. In addition to journalism, TAPinto offers content marketing, social media promotion, email marketing, branded content, and sponsorship opportunities for local businesses. In 2025, Franchise Business Review recognized TAPinto for innovation, culture, and as a top franchise opportunity.