Long-standing Cincinnati arts and culture publication CityBeat has been acquired by Northern Kentucky-based LINK Media.
CityBeat, founded in 1994, was most recently owned by St. Louis-based Big Lou Holdings. It is now the second independent news publication under the LINK Media umbrella, joining LINK nky, which launched in 2021.
The deal was finalized Dec. 5. All CityBeat operations, including advertising sales, design and print production, will move under LINK Media. This will allow for a local streamlining of backend functions that were managed outside the region in recent years.
Big Lou Holdings’ CEO Chris Keating will remain available for 90 days to support the transition. The publication’s three full-time employees will join LINK Media, reinforcing a commitment to expanding capacity rather than reducing it. The publication will continue printing on its bi-weekly schedule.
“CityBeat’s identity has always centered on independent journalism that highlights the innovations in the arts, culture and unique voices of Cincinnati’s urban core,” Keating said. “To carry that legacy forward, it was crucial to find a partner that values local storytelling. LINK Media brings dedication and support needed to help this publication continue to grow and succeed.”
LINK Media CEO Lacy Starling, who had announced her departure earlier this year, will remain with the organization.
“This acquisition represents a pivotal moment for LINK Media,” Starling said. “My skill set has always been focused on scaling organizations to strengthen their mission and increase impact.”
LINK nky will remain dedicated to local storytelling in Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties; the acquisition does not represent a shift in editorial direction for either publication.
LINK Media plans to actively engage readers throughout the transition, including polling newsletter subscribers and soliciting community feedback to help guide future coverage and distribution decisions.
“This comes as no surprise, but the data clearly shows that CityBeat readers are actively seeking information about upcoming concerts, art exhibits and the best places to drink and dine,” Starling said. “This transition gives us a renewed opportunity to gather direct input from audiences. Understanding what readers value most will help guide our editorial priorities and strengthen CityBeat’s ability to inform, inspire and connect our community.”