New fund to support EU investigative journalism launched

Cross-border teams of journalists and media outlets can apply by May 3 for up to €50,000 grants to investigate issues such as corruption, financial crime, human rights abuses and environmental damage.

The Investigative Journalism for Europe (#IJ4EU) fund is intended to foster and strengthen collaboration among journalists and newsrooms based in the European Union on revelations in the public interest and of cross-border significance. The fund aims to support investigations that reflect the media’s watchdog role and that assist the public in holding those in power accountable for their actions and to their obligations.

The fund will be managed by the International Press Institute (IPI), a global network of editors, media executives and leading journalists defending press freedom.

"Investigative journalism, which performs an essential service in any functioning democracy, is under pressure across the EU", IPI Executive Director Barbara Trionfi said. "Providing financial support to investigative projects is a way of helping ensure that information on issues such as corruption, financial crime, human rights abuses and environmental damage reaches the public. As such investigations are nowadays rarely confined to a single state, it is critical for teams of journalists to work across borders on issues. We are proud that #IJ4EU will provide an opportunity do so."

Cross-border teams of investigative reporters and/or media outlets based in at least two EU countries can apply for grants allocated by IJ4EU fund up to a maximum of €50,000 to produce investigations on a topic of cross-border relevance and of public interest. The programme will consider funding all platforms, including print, broadcast, online media, documentary film-making and multi-platform story-telling.

The deadline for applications is May 3, 2018, which also marks World Press Freedom Day. Applications must be submitted in English. Applicants will need to provide a detailed project description, information on the investigative team, a research and publication plan, a budget, and a risk assessment. Proposed projects must aim to be published by December 31, 2018.

To apply and to read full information about eligibility, applications and the selection process, please visit the fund's website: http://www.ij4eu.net/