Deadline: 07-Jun-2026
Balkan Investigative Reporting Network has launched an open call for independent journalists in Kosovo and Montenegro to support investigative reporting on corruption and accountability issues. Selected journalists can receive grants of up to USD 1,500, along with mentoring, technical assistance, and editorial support to produce in-depth anti-corruption investigations.
The programme aims to strengthen evidence-based journalism and improve public awareness of corruption risks affecting communities and public institutions.
Overview of the Anti-Corruption Reporting Grant Programme
The initiative is implemented under the project Society Against Corruption in Montenegro and Kosovo and seeks to support journalists investigating issues related to governance, misuse of public resources, and institutional accountability.
The programme promotes investigative journalism that strengthens transparency and public oversight while supporting informed civic participation.
The initiative supports:
- Investigative journalism
- Anti-corruption reporting
- Public accountability
- Transparency initiatives
- Civic participation
- Evidence-based reporting
- Institutional oversight
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Support investigative reporting on corruption
- Increase public awareness of accountability issues
- Strengthen independent journalism
- Promote transparency in public institutions
- Encourage evidence-based reporting
- Improve public oversight mechanisms
- Support accountability and governance reforms
Key Focus Areas
Applicants are expected to investigate corruption-related issues affecting communities and institutions.
Priority Topics
Projects may focus on:
- Corruption
- Public accountability
- Governance
- Transparency
- Public oversight
- Misuse of public funds
- Conflicts of interest
- Public procurement and contracting
- Institutional accountability
- Civic engagement
Priority Sectors
Story proposals must focus on one of the following:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Environmental issues
Funding and Support
Grant Amount
Selected journalists may receive:
- Up to USD 1,500
Additional Support
Participants will also receive:
- Technical assistance
- Mentoring
- Editorial guidance
- Support for multimedia storytelling
- Investigation development assistance
Expected Outcomes
Supported projects are expected to:
- Investigate systemic corruption challenges
- Produce in-depth journalism pieces
- Increase public awareness
- Improve understanding of accountability systems
- Strengthen public discussion around corruption issues
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet experience and location requirements.
Eligible Applicants
The opportunity is open to:
- Independent journalists
- Journalists with 3–5 years of professional media or journalism experience
Geographic Eligibility
Applicants must be citizens or residents of:
- Kosovo
- Montenegro
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
Required Documents
- One anti-corruption story proposal in English
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of support from the media outlet where the story will be published
Proposal Requirements
The proposal should:
- Focus on healthcare, education, or environmental issues
- Explain the issue being investigated
- Describe the investigative approach
- Demonstrate potential impact
- Show relevance to anti-corruption objectives
Why This Grant Matters
Investigative journalism plays an important role in strengthening public accountability and transparency.
The programme supports:
- Independent media
- Public awareness
- Institutional transparency
- Responsible governance
- Evidence-based public discussion
- Community accountability
It also helps journalists investigate systemic issues that may otherwise receive limited attention.
How to Apply
Step 1: Identify a Corruption Issue
Select a topic connected to:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Environmental governance
Step 2: Develop an Investigation Concept
Clearly define:
- Main problem
- Investigation questions
- Potential sources
- Expected findings
Step 3: Prepare a Story Proposal
Include:
- Topic description
- Investigation methodology
- Public relevance
- Expected impact
Step 4: Collect Required Documents
Prepare:
- CV
- Letter of media support
- English proposal
Step 5: Submit the Application
Submit all documents according to programme requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Choosing Broad Topics
Focus on specific and investigable issues.
2. Weak Evidence Planning
Explain sources and research methods clearly.
3. Missing Public Interest Value
Demonstrate why the issue matters.
4. Incomplete Documentation
Submit all required materials.
5. Limited Impact Explanation
Clearly describe how the story can increase accountability.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on a clearly defined corruption issue
- Present realistic investigation plans
- Use evidence-based approaches
- Demonstrate public importance
- Explain expected outcomes
- Highlight community relevance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is offering this grant?
The programme is offered by Balkan Investigative Reporting Network.
2. How much funding is available?
Selected journalists may receive up to USD 1,500.
3. Who can apply?
Independent journalists with 3–5 years of journalism experience may apply.
4. Which countries are eligible?
Applicants must be citizens or residents of Kosovo or Montenegro.
5. What topics can be investigated?
Proposals should focus on healthcare, education, or environmental issues linked to corruption and accountability.
6. Is mentoring provided?
Yes. Selected applicants receive mentoring and editorial support.
7. What documents are required?
Applicants must submit a proposal, CV, and media outlet support letter.
Conclusion
The BIRN Anti-Corruption Reporting Grant Programme provides funding and editorial support for journalists investigating corruption-related issues in Kosovo and Montenegro. By supporting evidence-based reporting and public accountability, the initiative aims to strengthen transparency and informed public discussion.
For more information, visit BIRN.