RFAs: Freelancer Support Scheme for Journalists

Deadline: 13-Apr-2026

The IJ4EU Freelancer Support Scheme provides grants of up to €20,000 to cross-border teams of freelance journalists investigating public-interest issues in Europe. In addition to financial support, grantees receive tailored mentoring, training, and networking opportunities to strengthen independent investigative reporting across Creative Europe countries.

About the Programme

The Freelancer Support Scheme is part of IJ4EU (Investigative Journalism for Europe) and is designed specifically for freelance journalists working outside traditional newsroom structures.

The programme is managed by the European Journalism Centre and supports investigative projects with strong cross-border relevance and clear public-interest value.

Funding Details

• Maximum Grant: €20,000

• Project Duration: Six months

• Payment Structure: Three instalments

  • Upon signing the grant agreement

  • After mid-term reporting

  • After final reporting

• Reporting: Narrative reports required; detailed financial documentation not required (records must be retained for five years)

Non-Financial Support

Grantees receive tailored professional support, including:

• One-on-one mentoring

• Skills-based training sessions

• Expert “Ask Me Anything” calls

• Online cohort networking event at the start of the funding period

• Access to broader IJ4EU networking opportunities

This additional support aims to strengthen investigative skills and foster collaboration among freelancers across Europe.

Eligible Topics

Projects must investigate public-interest issues such as:

• Corruption, illicit enrichment, and financial crime

• Security

• Democracy and human rights

• Environment and climate change

• Health

Projects must reveal new information of public relevance in at least two Creative Europe participating countries or address issues affecting the broader European public sphere.

Publication Requirements

• Projects must aim for publication in respected media outlets or platforms in at least two Creative Europe countries.

• Initial publication behind a paywall is allowed, provided free access is granted after one month.

• Published work must acknowledge IJ4EU support.

Eligible formats include:

• Print

• Broadcast

• Online

• Documentary

• Multi-platform storytelling

Eligibility Criteria

Teams must:

• Include at least two freelance journalists

• Be based in at least two Creative Europe participating countries

• Meet eligibility based on residency (not nationality)

Additional notes:

• Team members from third countries may participate if core geographic requirements are met.

• Projects must demonstrate cross-border relevance, feasibility, impact, and strong risk assessment.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted in English through the Good Grants platform and include:

• Detailed project description

• Publication plan

• Risk assessment

• Budget

• Information on team experience

• Letters of intent from media outlets (strongly encouraged)

Selection Process

1. Eligibility screening

2. Evaluation by an independent jury of experienced journalists

Evaluation criteria include:

• Cross-border relevance

• Public-interest value

• Feasibility

• Expected impact

• Team credentials

• Risk management

• Thematic and geographical balance

Why It Matters

Freelance journalists often lack institutional backing and access to support mechanisms. This scheme:

• Strengthens cross-border investigative collaboration

• Supports independent journalism in under-resourced environments

• Enhances professional development

• Contributes to democratic accountability and transparency in Europe

FAQs

1. Who can apply? Teams of at least two freelance journalists based in two Creative Europe countries.

2. How much funding is available? Up to €20,000 per project.

3. How long can projects last? Six months.

4. Is mentorship included? Yes, tailored mentoring and training are provided.

5. Are newsroom journalists eligible? No, the scheme is specifically for freelancers operating outside newsroom structures.

6. Is publication required? Yes, in at least two Creative Europe countries.

7. Is detailed financial reporting required? No, but records must be retained for five years.

Conclusion

The IJ4EU Freelancer Support Scheme 2026–2027 empowers freelance investigative journalists to pursue impactful cross-border stories while benefiting from structured mentoring, training, and networking. By combining financial and professional support, the programme strengthens independent journalism and democratic accountability across Europe.

For more information, visit Investigative Journalism for Europe.