The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is offering reporting grants to support the production of in-depth or investigative stories that will highlight progress toward a post-pandemic “green recovery”.
EJN is seeking to increase reporting on this emerging topic in order to improve public understanding of these actions and ensure that governments are held accountable for implementing recovery plans that work towards a sustainable future. This is a critically timed opportunity to shape investment for years to come, and for the public to have a voice in ensuring that their country is rebuilt better than before.
Story Themes
EJN welcomes investigative and/or in-depth stories that engage audiences to better understand the commitments (or lack thereof) from governments, administrations, corporations and other authorities to progress towards a green, sustainable future. They are also seeking story pitches that more generally focus on energy and climate change at the national or international level.
Story Approach & Format
- EJN expects to award 10 grants with the average grant amount being 1,100 GBP. They may consider larger grant amounts for stories using innovative or investigative approaches that may be more costly and time-consuming.
- Applicants should provide a detailed budget with justification for the amount requested using this template. They ask that budgets be reasonable and account for costs necessary for reporting without being extraneous. They expect that stories will be produced with equipment the applicant already has access to (including cameras, drones, lighting, tripods, etc.) and will not consider budgets that heavily focus on producing new supplies.
- Stories can be produced in any language. However, applicants who intend to write or produce stories in their local language need to also include an English translation. Please include the cost for translation in the budget, if necessary.
- Freelance reporters should demonstrate a plan for publication or broadcast and are encouraged to provide a letter of interest from the editor.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applications are open to journalists (online, print, television, radio) and other expert media practitioners with experience in investigative reporting and covering environment and/or issues related to climate. They encourage applications from freelancers and staff from all types of media organizations—international, national, local and community-based.
- EJN is seeking to support both early-career and senior journalists with many years of reporting experience. They will accept both individual and group applications, but for the latter they ask that the application is made in the name of one lead applicant who will receive the grant on the group’s behalf, if awarded.
Judging Criteria
Applicants should consider the following points when devising their story proposals.
- Relevance: Does the proposal meet the criteria and objectives of the call? Why does this story matter and to whom? Is the main idea, context and overall value to the target audience clearly defined?
- Angle: If the story has been covered by mainstream media, does your proposal bring new insights into the topic or offer a fresh angle?
- Impact: Does the proposal have a compelling narrative or investigative element that will inform and engage, draw attention, trigger debate and urge action?
- Innovative storytelling: The use of creative approaches, multimedia and data visualization will be considered a plus.
For more information, visit https://earthjournalism.net/opportunities/story-grants-on-green-recovery-from-the-covid-19-pandemic