The following is cross-posted from the Knight Digital Media Center’s blog.

The Lens, an investigative news organization serving New Orleans, has been granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax status by the IRS after a 26-month wait.

“This IRS  declaration marks a new chapter in the life of The Lens,” Karen Gadbois, co-founder, said. The organization will celebrate its third anniversary on Jan. 18.

The designation makes it easier for The Lens to raise money from foundations and tax-deductible donations.

The Lens was one of a number of nonprofit news start ups undergoing lengthy reviews by the IRS, and this prompted a review by the Council on Foundations since more and more foundations are interested in supporting local news start ups. Earlier this year, the San Francisco Public Press received its designation after a 32-month wait.

The Lens has received significant support from the Greater New Orleans Foundation. With matching support from the local foundation, The Lens was a two-time winner of the Knight Community Information Challenge.

By Michele McLellan, Knight Community Information Challenge Circuit Rider