WASHINGTON — The Fund for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) seeks grant proposals for independent investigative projects from journalists who need support for travel and other reporting expenses.
The deadline for proposals is 5 p.m. EDT, Friday, September 28.
FIJ is interested in proposals that break new ground and expose wrongdoing. Projects relating to government accountability and environmental issues in the United States, local or regional stories with national implications, and applications from ethnic media are strongly encouraged.
This year, the Fund for Investigative Journalism is also putting out a special call for investigative proposals on issues of economic inequities in America. It also invites investigations of climate change issues. Proposed projects must be journalistic in nature; FIJ does not fund analysis or commentary that does not break news.
FIJ’s grants are made possible through generous funding from the Morton K. and Jane Blaustein Foundation, the Park Foundation, the Green Park Foundation, the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation, the Gannett Foundation, The Nara Fund, private family foundations, and the public.
Pro bono legal services are provided by Dykema. FIJ is also supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Chair in Investigative and Enterprise Reporting at the Journalism Department in the College of Media at the University of Illinois.
For more than forty years, the Fund for Investigative Journalism has supported work by independent and freelance reporters who do not have the resources to do their investigations. Grants average $5,000. The awards support the costs of reporting, such as travel and document production expenses. Small stipends will be considered as part of the overall award.
If the proposed project addresses an issue that has already been in the news, the applicant must acknowledge the work previously done, and explain how the project would break new ground.
FIJ accepts applications through its website, www.fij.org. Click on “Apply for a Grant” for instructions. Applicants are encouraged to contact executive director Sandy Bergo with questions about the process.
In partnership with Investigative Reporters and Editors, FIJ also matches grant recipients with veteran journalists who serve as mentors, at the recipient’s request. Interested grantees are also considered for fellowships with the Schuster Institute for Investigative Journalism at Brandeis University.
FIJ depends on donations from foundations and individuals. Donations can be made online or by mail to The Fund for Investigative Journalism, 529 14th Street NW – 13th floor, Washington DC 20045.
For further information contact:
Sandy Bergo
202-662-7564