Deadline: 17-Apr-2026
Internews has launched Request for Applications #01 to provide content production grants for independent media organizations in Ukraine. Grants support credible, innovative reporting to counter disinformation, enhance audience engagement, and strengthen media sustainability. Each grant offers up to USD 50,000 for projects lasting 3–6 months, concluding by 31 October 2026.
Overview
Internews seeks to support independent media organizations in Ukraine to enhance access to trusted and timely information. The initiative aims to:
- Strengthen independent media’s ability to counter disinformation.
- Support survival and stabilization of local media outlets.
- Improve reporting quality and delivery of evidence-based news.
- Encourage innovation in content formats, audience engagement, and digital adaptation.
The program is part of broader efforts to reinforce Ukraine’s independent media ecosystem through financial support, technical expertise, and strategic technology investments.
Why It Matters
Changes in digital technology and audience habits have reshaped how information is consumed and trusted, creating opportunities for misinformation and polarization. These grants help independent media remain credible, visible, and relevant while experimenting with new formats and channels to reach diverse audiences.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Locally registered independent organizations in Ukraine.
- Compliance with legal and organizational standards.
- Demonstrated performance in past media initiatives, if applicable.
- Independence from political affiliations.
Restrictions:
- Only one application per organization.
- Organizations must operate within Ukraine.
Grant Details
- Number of grants: At least 10 subgrants.
- Grant value: Up to USD 50,000 each.
- Duration: 3–6 months.
- Project completion deadline: 31 October 2026.
Key Focus Areas for Reporting
- Countering misinformation and disinformation.
- Delivering evidence-based, trusted news.
- Innovating content formats and distribution channels.
- Engaging audiences through underrepresented platforms.
- Reaching underserved or diverse audience groups.
- Supporting media sustainability and operational efficiency.
How to Apply / How It Works
- Prepare your project proposal: Align with Internews’ goals and demonstrate civic value.
- Submit your application: Only one submission per organization is allowed.
- Proposal evaluation: Applications assessed on alignment with objectives, clarity, feasibility, and cost reasonableness.
- Complementary projects: Consideration given to initiatives that fill gaps in audience reach or platform use.
- Grant implementation: Successful projects receive funding and conclude within 3–6 months, by 31 October 2026.
Best Practices & Tips
- Focus on projects with clear civic value that resonate with Ukrainian audiences.
- Demonstrate how the content counters disinformation or enhances media credibility.
- Include innovative formats and distribution strategies to maximize audience engagement.
- Ensure budgets are reasonable and primarily cover content production costs.
- Consider partnerships or approaches that complement existing media initiatives.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for these grants?
Locally registered independent media organizations in Ukraine that meet compliance and independence requirements.
2. What is the maximum grant amount?
USD 50,000 per project.
3. How long can projects run?
Between 3 and 6 months, concluding by 31 October 2026.
4. Can multiple applications be submitted by one organization?
No, only one application per organization is allowed.
5. What types of content are eligible?
Content that counters disinformation, delivers trusted information, and holds civic value. It is not limited to news and current affairs.
6. How are applications evaluated?
Based on alignment with project goals, clarity, feasibility, cost reasonableness, and complementarity with existing initiatives.
7. Are partnerships encouraged?
Yes, projects that reach underserved audiences or use underrepresented platforms are given additional consideration.
Conclusion
Internews’ content production grants empower independent media in Ukraine to produce credible, innovative, and audience-focused content. By funding projects that counter disinformation, enhance engagement, and strengthen media sustainability, the initiative supports a resilient, independent media ecosystem essential for informed public discourse.
For more information, visit Internews.
