The BIRN Content Production Fund supports media outlets in the Western Balkans to produce high-quality, cross-border investigative journalism. It emphasizes professional development, inclusion of underrepresented communities, and impactful multimedia storytelling across regional issues.

Overview of the BIRN Content Production Fund

The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) launched the Content Production Fund to enhance journalism professionalism and cross-border collaboration. It provides structured financial and mentoring support to media outlets producing investigative stories in English and local languages, with a focus on regional relevance and inclusivity.

Objectives of the Fund

Promote high-quality, independent multimedia journalism.
Support cross-border investigative stories covering national and regional issues.
Include perspectives from underrepresented communities, such as women, youth, and minorities.
Strengthen journalists’ skills through on-the-job mentoring.
Encourage impactful storytelling that informs and engages regional audiences.

Who is Eligible?

Media outlets legally registered since at least January 2023.
Organizations with the capacity to produce investigative cross-border content.
Outlets intending to incorporate marginalized communities into their stories.
Applicants must not hold active grants from other BIRN schemes during the project period.

Grant Details

Funding: Up to €5,000 per grant.
Total Allocation: €60,000 across up to 12 grants.
Project Period: Start in early January 2026, completion by mid-March 2026.
Mentorship: On-the-job guidance for journalists throughout story production.

How to Apply

Prepare Your Application:
- Proposal highlighting cross-border relevance and inclusion of marginalized communities.
- Financial statements, tax certificates, court certificates, and organizational registration proof.
Submit in English: Applications must be fully completed in English.
Administrative Check: BIRN performs an initial compliance review.
Independent Jury Evaluation: Proposals assessed on:
- Story relevance and regional significance
- Organizational capacity and professionalism
- Financial soundness
- Potential for community impact
- Focus on human rights and gender equality

Tips for Applicants

Highlight how the story bridges multiple countries or regions.
Demonstrate clear engagement with underrepresented communities.
Include practical details of newsroom capacity and resources.
Emphasize the social impact and potential policy or community outcomes.

FAQ

1. Can freelance journalists apply? No, only legally registered media outlets are eligible.
2. Are previous BIRN grantees eligible? Yes, provided they do not hold active grants from other BIRN programs during the project period.
3. What type of content is supported? Investigative multimedia journalism in English and local languages.
4. Is mentorship mandatory? Yes, all selected projects include on-the-job mentoring.
5. What communities should be included? Women, youth, minorities, and other underrepresented or marginalized groups.
6. How is funding disbursed? Grants are awarded upon selection; up to €5,000 per project.
7. How are proposals evaluated? Based on relevance, organizational capacity, financial health, potential impact, and inclusion of cross-border issues.

Conclusion

The BIRN Content Production Fund strengthens investigative journalism in the Western Balkans by promoting high-quality, cross-border reporting. By supporting inclusivity, mentorship, and regional collaboration, it amplifies the voices of underrepresented communities and drives meaningful social impact across the region.