Deadline: 18-Sep-2025
The Innovation. Media. Minds. Program, funded by the European Union (EU), is excited to announce the second call for Independent Media Grants aiming to support independent media/media organisations in the Western Balkans region to increase pluralism of expression, strengthen their cooperation with public service media and improve audience relevant reporting.
Independent media outlets across the Western Balkans have a fresh chance to shape and enrich regional public discourse. The Goethe‑Institut, as the donor, on behalf of the European Union and in partnership with DW Akademie, has launched the second call for Production Grants aimed at supporting independent media organizations to enhance pluralism of expression, deepen collaboration with public service broadcasters, and produce reporting that genuinely resonates with diverse audiences.
With grants of up to €30,000 available and project timelines capped at eight months, this opportunity empowers media creators to produce meaningful content spanning cultural exchange, education, the rule of law, social justice, gender issues, environmental investigations, and the Western Balkans’ journey toward EU integration. The initiative invites media innovators to explore stories that matter and strengthen the voice of independent journalism across the region.
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to participate in this programme. They must operate as independent media outlets or media organisations with legal entities established in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia. Eligible entities include independent private sector media companies or non‑profit media organisations, while state-controlled media are excluded. A transparent ownership structure is essential, with no involvement from state or state-affiliated entities, senior political actors, or their close relatives.
Candidates must also demonstrate a strong commitment to professional and ethical journalism standards, often through membership in press councils or adherence to recognised mechanisms that uphold these principles. Only media outlets registered as independent organisations for at least three years qualify for this grant. Furthermore, applicants need to have a signed official agreement with at least one Western Balkan public service broadcaster that has signed a memorandum of understanding to broadcast the media content developed within the grant. The produced content must be broadcast for a minimum of one month and shared across multiple media platforms, such as TV, social media, websites, or YouTube channels of both the broadcaster and the beneficiary.
These opportunities are designed to demystify the application process and help organisations submit compelling and impactful proposals. Those who step up now can amplify audience engagement, innovate public service broadcasting, and contribute to vibrant, pluralistic media ecosystems across the Western Balkans.
For more information, visit Goethe‑Institut.
