Deadline: 08-Jan-2026
The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is offering reporting fellowships for journalists and communicators in India to produce in-depth stories on the private sector’s role in climate change.
Up to 10 fellowships will be awarded, each with funding of approximately EUR 1,800, to support high-quality climate journalism throughout 2026.
Programme Overview
The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) has launched a dedicated reporting fellowship programme to support communicators in India covering the intersection of the private sector and climate change.
The initiative is designed to strengthen public understanding of how corporate activities influence climate outcomes, environmental responsibility, and sustainability pathways.
By supporting in-depth, evidence-based reporting, the programme aims to improve transparency and accountability in climate-related business practices.
Core Objectives of the Fellowship
The fellowship focuses on advancing high-impact climate journalism that explains complex environmental and economic dynamics.
Key objectives include:
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Strengthening public awareness of corporate influence on climate change
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Encouraging investigative and analytical reporting on business and sustainability
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Supporting original, well-researched climate stories
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Promoting editorial independence and ethical journalism
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Enhancing the quality and depth of climate reporting in India
The programme prioritizes journalism that clearly explains how private enterprises both contribute to and help address climate challenges.
Key Reporting Themes and Focus Areas
Fellows are encouraged to explore a wide range of topics related to climate change and the private sector.
Eligible Reporting Themes Include
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Climate finance and corporate investment
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Carbon markets and emissions trading
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Greenwashing and corporate climate claims
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Renewable energy development
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Clean mobility and sustainable transport
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Rare earth materials and supply chains
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Climate-related innovation and technology
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Locally driven and community-based climate solutions
Projects should provide clear insights into corporate decision-making, impacts, and accountability.
Fellowship Support and Funding
The programme offers both financial and professional support to selected fellows.
Funding Details
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Number of fellowships: Up to 10
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Funding per project: Approximately EUR 1,800
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Fellowship period: 2026
The funding is intended to help journalists dedicate sufficient time and resources to producing high-quality, in-depth reporting.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The fellowship is open to communicators based in India who are capable of producing strong climate journalism.
Eligible Applicants
Applicants should demonstrate:
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Experience in journalism, reporting, or environmental communication
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Strong storytelling and research skills
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Editorial independence and ethical reporting standards
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A clear interest in climate change and sustainability issues
Both freelance and staff journalists may apply, provided they can commit to producing original work under the fellowship.
What Kind of Stories Are Expected?
EJN seeks stories that go beyond surface-level coverage and offer depth, context, and analysis.
Priority Is Given To Stories That:
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Investigate corporate roles in climate mitigation or harm
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Examine accountability, transparency, and policy implications
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Connect business activity to real-world environmental and social impacts
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Translate complex data into accessible narratives for the public
Stories should be grounded in evidence and contribute meaningfully to climate discourse in India.
How the Fellowship Works
Selected fellows receive financial support and are integrated into the Earth Journalism Network’s professional ecosystem.
Fellowship Benefits
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Financial support for reporting expenses and time
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Editorial guidance and professional feedback
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Access to a global network of environmental journalists
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Opportunities for collaboration and skill development
This holistic approach supports both story production and long-term professional growth.
How to Apply: What to Do
Applicants should prepare a clear and compelling proposal aligned with the fellowship’s goals.
Key Application Steps
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Identify a reporting idea focused on the private sector and climate change
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Clearly define the research angle, relevance, and expected impact
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Demonstrate reporting experience and storytelling capability
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Outline a realistic reporting plan and timeline for 2026
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Submit the application according to Earth Journalism Network guidelines
Strong proposals clearly explain why the story matters and how it will inform public understanding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid common issues that weaken fellowship applications.
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Submitting broad or unfocused story ideas
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Failing to clearly link corporate activity to climate outcomes
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Weak evidence of reporting experience or independence
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Overly promotional or advocacy-driven story proposals
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Lack of a clear reporting plan or timeline
Clear, investigative, and well-structured proposals are more competitive.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The private sector plays a major role in shaping India’s climate future, from energy transition to resource use.
By supporting rigorous journalism, the Earth Journalism Network fellowship helps ensure that corporate climate actions are scrutinized, understood, and communicated to the public.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main goal of the EJN reporting fellowship?
The fellowship aims to support in-depth journalism on how private sector activities influence climate change and sustainability in India.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Journalists and communicators based in India with experience in reporting and a strong interest in climate issues can apply.
How much funding does each fellowship provide?
Each selected project receives approximately EUR 1,800 in financial support.
How many fellowships will be awarded?
Up to 10 fellowships are expected to be awarded under this programme.
What topics can fellows report on?
Eligible topics include climate finance, carbon markets, greenwashing, renewable energy, clean mobility, rare earths, innovation, and local climate solutions.
Does the fellowship provide editorial support?
Yes, fellows receive editorial guidance and benefit from being part of EJN’s global journalism network.
When will the reporting take place?
The fellowship supports reporting activities throughout the year 2026.
Conclusion
The Earth Journalism Network reporting fellowships offer an important opportunity for journalists in India to produce impactful stories on the private sector and climate change. Through financial support, editorial guidance, and professional networking, the programme strengthens climate journalism and contributes to informed public debate on sustainability and corporate responsibility.
For more information, visit Earth Journalism Network.
