Deadline: 14-Sep-2026
The Fund for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) provides grants to support investigative reporting projects across print, online, broadcast, documentaries, books, and podcasts. Funding supports public-interest journalism that uncovers wrongdoing and has a strong U.S. connection.
Grants are typically up to $10,000 and cover essential reporting expenses such as travel, records requests, and data collection.
About the Fund
The Fund for Investigative Journalism supports independent, high-impact investigative journalism that is:
- Nonpartisan
- Fact-based
- Public-interest focused
- Designed to uncover hidden wrongdoing or accountability issues
It supports journalists working across multiple formats, including:
- Print and online journalism
- Broadcast reporting
- Documentaries
- Podcasts
- Books
Key Objectives
The fund aims to:
- Strengthen investigative journalism
- Expose corruption, abuse, or hidden issues
- Support independent reporting capacity
- Enable in-depth research and field reporting
- Increase public accountability
Eligible Projects
Supported investigative projects may include:
- Domestic U.S. investigations
- International investigations with strong U.S. relevance
- Reporting involving U.S. citizens, institutions, or companies
- Cross-border journalism led by U.S.-based reporters
All stories must be:
Funding Details
- Maximum grant: up to $10,000
- Review cycles: 3–4 times per year
- Funding type: Project-based reporting support
Eligible Costs
Grants may cover:
- Travel for field reporting
- Records requests (FOIA and similar)
- Data collection and research expenses
- Equipment rental (when necessary)
- Limited stipends in some cases
Ineligible Costs
Funding cannot be used for:
- Office rent or workspace costs
- Office supplies
- Equipment purchases
Eligible Applicants
Applicants include:
- Freelance journalists
- Staff reporters
- Media organizations
- Independent investigative journalists
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Strong investigative journalism experience
- Clear public-interest relevance
- A well-defined reporting plan
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
1. Short Summary
- Approximately 100 words
- Overview of the investigative project
2. Full Proposal
- Maximum 1,000 words
- Detailed explanation of:
- Story topic
- Investigative angle
- Reporting methods
- Required resources and expenses
- Public impact
What Makes a Strong Application
Successful proposals typically include:
- A clearly defined wrongdoing or issue
- Strong evidence or credible leads
- A realistic reporting plan
- Clear explanation of funding needs
- Demonstrated public interest value
Tips for Applicants
To improve competitiveness:
- Focus on accountability and systemic issues
- Clearly connect the story to public harm or impact
- Specify exact reporting expenses
- Show why funding is necessary to complete the investigation
- Keep the narrative tight and evidence-driven
Avoid vague topics or stories without a clear investigative direction.
FAQ
Who can apply?
Freelance journalists, staff reporters, and media organizations.
How much funding is available?
Up to $10,000 per project.
What types of stories are supported?
Investigative stories involving wrongdoing, accountability, or public interest issues.
Can international stories be funded?
Yes, if there is a strong U.S. connection or U.S.-based reporting involvement.
What formats are supported?
Print, online, broadcast, documentaries, podcasts, and books.
What are the main costs covered?
Travel, records requests, data collection, and limited reporting expenses.
Conclusion
The Fund for Investigative Journalism provides critical financial support to journalists pursuing in-depth investigative reporting that serves the public interest. By funding essential reporting costs, it enables stories that uncover wrongdoing, improve accountability, and reach audiences through trusted media platforms.
For more information, visit Fund for Investigative Journalism.