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, Monday, March 11.
FIJ is interested in proposals for stories that break new ground and expose wrongdoing.
Projects relating to government accountability, economic inequities, and environmental issues in the United States, local or regional stories with national implications, and applications from ethnic media are strongly encouraged.
FIJ grants are made possible through generous support from: the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation, the Park Foundation, the Morton K. and Jane Blaustein Foundation, the Green Park Foundation, the Gannett Foundation, the Herb Block Foundation, The Nara Fund, the Otto-Whalley Family Foundation, and from 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 have tips, ideas, and sources but lack 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.
Grantees are also eligible for mentors recruited through partnerships with Investigative Reporters and Editors and the Society of Environmental Journalists.
Grants are awarded three to four times a year. For the year 2013, proposals are due March 11, with additional deadlines planned for June, September, and December to be announced later in the year.
Detailed application requirements can be found on the FIJ website: www.fij.org. FIJ also welcomes informal inquires about its application process. Call or email executive director Sandy Bergo, 202-662-7564, [email protected].
The Fund for Investigative Journalism 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.
To receive regular notices of grant deadlines, send an email to [email protected].