Story Grants to Support Reporting on Biodiversity Issues in the Western Balkans

Deadline: 19-Feb-2026

The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is offering reporting grants of up to €1,200 for journalists in the Western Balkans to produce in-depth stories on biodiversity, environmental threats, and conservation solutions. Selected applicants receive mentoring, funding for reporting costs, and the opportunity to publish work that drives awareness and policy conversation by August 2026.

The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) provides funding and mentoring for journalists in the Western Balkans to investigate and report on biodiversity, its value, threats, and conservation solutions. This initiative aims to produce impactful stories that inform communities, influence policymakers, and raise awareness of environmental challenges and successes.

Key Objectives

• Support production of in-depth, evidence-based journalism on biodiversity

• Highlight connections between biodiversity and climate, health, or policy

• Analyze national and regional compliance with EU environmental regulations

• Examine effectiveness of conservation efforts and innovative approaches

• Promote coverage of under-reported topics or fresh story angles

• Encourage cross-border collaboration among journalists

Focus Areas for Story Ideas

Eligible story topics include:

• Biodiversity values, threats, and conservation solutions

• Links between biodiversity and climate change or public health

• Alignment of national policies with EU environmental rules

• Progress on global and national biodiversity commitments

• Effectiveness of protected areas and conservation measures

• Tensions between renewable energy development and biodiversity protection

• Community-led or innovative conservation initiatives

• Sustainable use of biodiversity and impact of biodiversity credits or offsets

• Use of technologies like satellite imagery or AI to monitor biodiversity

Eligibility

• Applicants from: Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo

• Journalists working in any medium: online, print, TV, radio

• Expert media practitioners with professional reporting experience

• Group applications allowed, but one lead applicant must manage communication and funds

• Applications must be submitted in English

• Transparency regarding use of generative AI in proposal writing is required

Grant Details

• Number of grants: Up to 15 story grants

• Funding amount: Average grant €1,200 per story

• Timeline: Grants issued February 2026; all stories published by 30 August 2026

• Use of funds: Travel, accommodation, reporting costs, translation (if needed), equipment already available; reporter salaries ≤ 30% of total budget for freelancers

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Detailed proposal explaining the story idea

2. Reasonable budget using the EJN template

3. Two samples of relevant previous work

4. Signed editor letter of support confirming publication by 30 August 2026

5. Declaration of any use of generative AI tools in proposal development

Funding Conditions

• Acknowledge support with the tagline:
  “This story was produced with support from Internews’ Earth Journalism Network.”

• Grant recipients allow EJN, partners, and funders to edit, publish, broadcast, and distribute stories freely

• Unethical or improper professional conduct may result in disqualification

How to Apply

1. Review eligibility criteria and focus areas

2. Develop a story proposal aligned with the priorities above

3. Prepare a budget using the provided template

4. Collect editor letter of support and work samples

5. Submit the application online in English before the specified deadline

Tips for a Successful Application

• Focus on under-reported topics or innovative story angles

• Ensure the budget reflects actual reporting needs and equipment available

• Keep freelance salary ≤ 30% of total budget

• Demonstrate community, policy, or conservation impact

• Use clear, professional language and comply with EJN guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible for the grants?

Journalists and media practitioners in Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo with professional reporting experience.

2. What types of stories are funded?

Stories covering biodiversity values, threats, conservation solutions, and related topics such as climate, health, policy, technology, and community initiatives.

3. How much funding is available?

Grants average €1,200 per story, covering reporting costs.

4. Can multiple journalists collaborate?

Yes, cross-border or team applications are allowed, but one lead applicant manages funds and communication.

5. Are AI tools allowed in proposal development?

Yes, but applicants must disclose use of generative AI, and improper conduct may lead to disqualification.

6. What reporting costs are covered?

Travel, accommodation, translation (if needed), and essential reporting equipment; reporter salary for freelancers ≤ 30% of the budget.

7. When will stories be published?

All funded stories must be published by 30 August 2026, confirmed with a signed editor letter.

Conclusion

The EJN Biodiversity Reporting Grants provide a unique opportunity for journalists in the Western Balkans to produce impactful, under-reported stories on biodiversity. With mentorship, funding for essential reporting costs, and opportunities for wide publication, the program supports journalistic excellence while promoting awareness and actionable solutions for environmental challenges.

For more information, visit EJN.