Local Cross-Border Journalism

This grant programme supports local cross-border investigative teams of professional journalists and/or news outlets to bring the locals to the European level as well as to local citizens all over Europe.

Compelling stories can be found everywhere, even at the local level. Unlike other parts of the world, local journalists in some European countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands do not engage in in-depth research or investigative journalism. We're looking for any topics. You may compare or contrast issues from 2 different local communities or regions. For example, why is the education in Copenhagen much more robust than in another European city? Or what does one city do to make it a sustainable city compared to other European city?

There are many reasons why the lack of interest among these local journalists to pursue comprehensive projects exist, for example, a lack of funding. This grant programme aims to address the shortage of local journalists and award grants to local investigative and in-depth journalistic projects. The key aspect of this programme is the cross-border collaboration, which will allow interested local journalists and/or media outlets to explore possible solutions using expansive resources. This project also aims to spur more critical thinking about society’s pressing problems, increase the level of debate, and foster civic engagement. The grant can also offer support to preliminary work in the development of new investigative and in-depth projects.

  • Pre-application meeting: Talk to our project coordinator

  • Click here to view the calendar: n/a

Along with promoting investigative journalism among local cities and/or regions, this project also plans to develop a training programme in various aspects of investigative journalism, local audience engagement, and security as most local journalists lack or have few resources available at their disposal. They may also lack experience with cross-border investigative journalism. The training programmes will include experienced partners with a reputable background and extensive experience in their fields.

The grant can cover working time and expenses such as logistics, travel, insurance, access to legal support, translations, access to technology and data sets, etc.

Along with financial support, teams can also apply for mentorship from an experienced professional with either focus on the investigation or the need for competencies in a specific skill.

Still unsure about local cross-border topic?

When thinking about a local topic, don't look too far and don't make it too complex. Check out this supported project from our partner, Journalismfund Europe's grant programme, entitled "Can depopulation in Europe's islands be reversed?" and learn how two local journalists from two different countries collaborated together for a local cross-border story.

Still have questions?

Visit our FAQ page or Grant Details page for more information.

Join our Facebook Group

Do you want to meet other investigative journalists from all over Europe? Interact with them and maybe collaborate with a partner for your next cross-border investigation? Join this growing Facebook community of young and expert investigative journalists. Click here!

Upcoming call deadlines:

  • 1st Deadline = 07 July 2022 (Closed)
  • 2nd Deadline = 08 September 2022 (Closed)
  • 3rd Deadline = 10 November 2022 (Closed)
  • 4th Deadline = 12 January 2023 (Closed)
  • 5th Deadline = 16 March 2023 (Closed)
  • 6th Deadline = 25 May 2023 (Closed)

To apply or to learn more about the eligibility and assessment criteria, timing, jury and grant conditions, visit our application portal. In-house assistance to better prepare your application. Set up a pre-application meeting here.

Partners

Funders