For years, HARO (Help a Reporter Out) was the go-to platform for connecting journalists with expert sources. It bridged the gap between reporters hunting for insights and brands eager to share their stories. But with HARO's recent closure, PR pros and marketers are left wondering: what's next?
If you’ve relied on HARO to land media coverage, don’t worry—there are plenty of innovative alternatives stepping up to fill the gap. In this blog, we’ll explore six powerful HARO replacements that are redefining the way brands and journalists collaborate in 2025.
What Happened to HARO?
HARO’s journey from a scrappy startup to a household name in PR circles has been nothing short of impressive. Founded by Peter Shankman in 2008, HARO gained massive popularity for offering journalists an easy way to source quotes and insights from experts. The service became synonymous with PR pitching and was eventually acquired by Cision in 2010.
However, in late 2024, Cision decided to sunset HARO, citing shifting priorities and the evolving needs of the media landscape. As the PR industry moves toward more dynamic, data-driven solutions, HARO’s model of mass email queries felt increasingly outdated. The decision to close HARO has left many PR professionals scrambling for alternatives, but it has also opened the door for more innovative platforms to shine.
1. Press Hook
A Revolutionary Approach to Media Relations
Press Hook is transforming how brands and journalists connect.. This innovative platform acts as a media matchmaking service, allowing PR pros to showcase their brands while journalists browse a curated database to find stories that resonate with their beats.
Key Features:
- A searchable media marketplace connecting journalists with press-ready stories.
- Tools for organizing and streamlining media outreach.
- High-quality editorial opportunities tailored to brand niches.
Why Choose Press Hook? Press Hook stands out by focusing on proactive media relations, helping brands and journalists save time while fostering authentic connections..
2. Qwoted
For High-Quality, Real-Time Connections
Qwoted offers a robust platform for connecting PR pros with journalists in real time.. Designed to reduce noise, it focuses on quality over quantity by encouraging vetted, relevant connections.
Key Features:
- A curated network of experts and journalists.
- Real-time notifications for journalist queries.
- Profiles that highlight subject-matter expertise.
Why Choose Qwoted? The platform's commitment to quality ensures journalists receive relevant pitches, increasing your chances of being noticed..
3. SourceBottle
Tailored for International Outreach
SourceBottle is a popular HARO alternative for brands and experts looking to connect with journalists in Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.. The platform caters to various industries, making it ideal for those with niche audiences.
Key Features:
- Geographic-specific journalist queries.
- Support for industries like lifestyle, health, and business.
- Free and premium service tiers.
Why Choose SourceBottle? For PR professionals targeting international markets, SourceBottle offers a competitive edge..
4. JustReachOut
PR Outreach Simplified
JustReachOut is designed for PR pros and small businesses looking to take control of their outreach without relying heavily on intermediaries.. This DIY platform simplifies the pitching process by helping you connect directly with journalists.
Key Features:
- A searchable journalist database.
- Pitch templates to streamline outreach.
- Resources for building long-term media relationships.
Why Choose JustReachOut? The focus on direct journalist engagement makes it an excellent choice for small teams and entrepreneurs..
5. Featured
Amplify Your Brand’s Visibility
Featured connects brands with journalists in a highly targeted way, ensuring your story reaches the right audience.. This platform’s streamlined process makes it easier than ever to secure media coverage.
Key Features:
- A sophisticated matching algorithm to pair brands with relevant journalists.
- Customizable profile creation for brands and experts.
- Tools to track and manage media opportunities.
Why Choose Featured? Featured excels at cutting through the noise and getting your brand noticed by the right journalists, making it a top choice for professionals aiming for strategic media placements..
6. Source of Sources (SOS)
The Future of PR Collaboration
Source of Sources (SOS) is an emerging platform that revolutionizes how brands and media collaborate. It goes beyond simple matchmaking, offering tools to create lasting relationships with journalists.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive journalist directories with detailed profiles.
- Advanced filtering options to find the perfect media fit.
- Insights and analytics to track outreach success.
Why Choose SOS? SOS offers a forward-thinking approach to PR, combining cutting-edge technology with an emphasis on relationship-building, making it an invaluable tool for modern PR campaigns..
Final Thoughts
The closure of HARO marks the end of an era, but it also signals an exciting shift in how brands and journalists connect. Platforms like Press Hook, Qwoted, and Featured are stepping up to meet the modern demands of PR with smarter tools, real-time connections, and tailored solutions.
As you navigate the post-HARO world, consider your specific needs—whether it's international outreach, DIY pitching, or comprehensive PR software. The alternatives we’ve covered here offer a range of options to help you adapt and thrive in the ever-changing media landscape.
2025 might just be the year to rethink your PR strategy, embrace new tools, and build even stronger media relationships. After all, when one door closes, another opens—often with better features and greater opportunities.
