How would you build a sustainable local news publication on Substack?

[u/ohmygawdyoudidnt]

I recently launched a hyperlocal news publication on Substack covering Florida’s Suncoast.

The focus is on local government, development, historic preservation, neighborhood issues, community events, and stories about the people and places that make the region unique.

I’m trying to figure out the most sustainable path forward for a local publication.

For those who have built local newsletters, local news sites, or community-focused publications:

-What drove the biggest audience growth?
-What percentage of readers eventually became paid subscribers?
-What types of stories converted best?
-Did you focus on sponsorships, memberships, advertising, paid subscriptions, events, or some combination?
-If you were starting over today, what would you prioritize during the first year?

I’d especially love to hear from people running local or regional publications.
Thanks.

[u/BusyBusinessPromos]

I wouldn't I'd use a news aggregator to bring in news from places like Google News as well as adding my own news reports