Deadline: 30-Jul-2025
The Second Call for Proposals is part of the regional project “SEECheck Network – Fighting Disinformation and Misinformation through a Network of Fact-checkers.” This initiative is implemented by the SEECheck network in partnership with “Faktoje” in Albania and “Open Data Kosovo,” with support from the European Commission.
The project aims to provide short-term grants that strengthen the capacity of civil society organizations (CSOs) and media outlets to combat disinformation in their local contexts. The goal is to enhance local media integrity, boost CSO capacities, and build community resilience against information disorder, with a focus on reaching local audiences.
Applicants can apply under two categories. LOT 1 supports local media outlets working to strengthen fact-checking and credible reporting. Projects should focus on producing accurate, engaging content and improving internal practices that ensure credibility. Preference will be given to media entities with a long-term commitment to fact-based reporting.
LOT 2 targets CSOs looking to enhance their ability to counter disinformation, promote media literacy, and empower communities. Projects may include advocacy, campaigns, community events, training, research, or multimedia initiatives. Preference is given to projects that show potential for sustained impact in the fight against disinformation.
Funding for each project must range between €5,000 and €12,000. Eligible activities include media content creation, awareness campaigns, public events, trainings, community initiatives, investigative journalism, and development of digital tools.
However, some activities are ineligible, such as scholarships, study visits, infrastructure-focused projects, charitable donations, and those already funded by the EU. Political party support and profit-making ventures are also excluded.
Eligible costs cover staff salaries (excluding bonuses), travel, supplies, contracts, communication, audits, translations, insurance, and specific office-related expenses. These costs must be directly tied to project execution and meet all conditions set by the contracting authority.
Ineligible costs include interest payments, provisions for debts, duplicate EU-funded expenses, currency exchange losses, credits to third parties, VAT costs, and in-kind contributions (except volunteer work).
To be eligible, applicants must be legal, non-profit entities or registered media based in Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, or Kosovo. They must also have at least one year of operational experience in civil society or media work and take full responsibility for managing the proposed project. The project scope must focus on one or more of the Western Balkan countries.
For more information, visit See Check.
