FOX 21 News, KQDS-TV

General Information
Industries
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Funding Stage
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Product Stage
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Business Model
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Company Overview
Founded
1999
Employees
42
Location
Duluth, United States
Website
FOX 21 News, KQDS-TV - Company Details
FOX 21 News, KQDS-TV

FOX 21 KQDS-DT serves as the FOX Broadcast Network affiliate for the Duluth-Superior market, encompassing northeastern Minnesota, northwestern Wisconsin, and the western part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It operates under the ownership of Red River Broadcast Co. of Fargo, North Dakota.

Market Area: The Duluth-Superior market covers an expansive area, equivalent to the size of West Virginia. It includes several counties in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, as well as key cities such as Duluth, Cloquet, Hibbing, Virginia, Grand Rapids, International Falls, Ashland, Hayward, Superior, and Ironwood.

History: Originally established as KNLD in 1994 and later acquired by Red River Broadcast Co. in 1999, the station underwent significant changes, including power enhancements and rebranding as KQDS-TV, the region's initial primary FOX affiliate. It transitioned to digital broadcasting, with FOX 21 News at 9 launching in 2007, followed by additional newscasts and the establishment of fox21online.com.

News Philosophy: FOX 21 prioritizes delivering comprehensive local coverage with a blend of quality and depth, aiming for a sophisticated presentation reminiscent of larger markets while maintaining a local, community-oriented approach. The network emphasizes its role as the voice of the people in northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, northern Michigan, and the Twin Ports, distinct from national news outlets.

Overall, FOX 21 KQDS-DT has carved a niche in the regional media landscape, demonstrating a commitment to localized reporting and a deep understanding of the communities it serves.