Deadline: 23-Mar-2026
The Journalism Science Alliance Grants fund collaborations between journalists and scientists to produce investigative reporting based on scientific evidence for topics of public interest. Grants support cross-sector partnerships across European countries, with funding tiers ranging from €10,000 to €50,000 and projects lasting up to eight months. Applicants benefit from mentorship, training, and networking opportunities, with priority given to diverse, high-impact, and globally relevant projects.
Overview
The Journalism Science Alliance (JSA) Grants support collaborations between journalists and scientists to deliver investigative journalism grounded in scientific evidence. This program enables projects that address pressing societal issues, foster public understanding, and strengthen media-science partnerships across Europe.
Program Objectives
The JSA Grants aim to:
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Promote investigative journalism informed by scientific research
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Facilitate collaboration between media outlets and research institutions
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Encourage cross-border projects addressing issues relevant to European audiences
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Support journalists operating in challenging media environments
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Enhance public understanding of critical topics such as climate, health, technology, and governance
Grant Tiers and Funding Amounts
Grants are available in three tiers depending on project scope and complexity:
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Tier 1: €10,000 for small-scale projects
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Tier 2: €20,000 for medium-scale projects
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Tier 3: €50,000 for large-scale, complex projects
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Project Duration: Up to 8 months
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Total Budget for 2026 Call: €1 million
Eligible Applicants
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Lead Applicant: At least one media outlet based in a Creative Europe Programme country
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Co-Applicant: At least one research or academic institution
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Additional Team Members: Freelancers or other partners may join but cannot apply independently
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Journalists: All media formats including print, broadcast, digital, multimedia, and documentary
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Scientists: Any relevant research discipline
Why It Matters
Investigative journalism informed by science is crucial for:
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Enhancing public understanding of complex scientific and societal issues
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Encouraging evidence-based policymaking and public debate
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Strengthening cross-sector collaboration between media and research institutions
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Supporting journalists working under limited press freedom conditions
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Promoting inclusive, diverse, and globally relevant reporting
How to Apply / What to Do
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Form a partnership team including:
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Media outlet (lead applicant)
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Research or academic institution (co-lead)
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Optional freelancers or additional partners
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Identify a topic of public interest with scientific grounding
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Prepare a project proposal detailing:
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Objectives and relevance
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Methodology and investigative approach
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Project timeline (up to 8 months)
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Detailed budget according to the chosen grant tier
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Submit the application in English via the EJC Platform
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Grants are awarded through an independent jury process based on merit
Tips for a Successful Application
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Prioritise cross-sector collaboration and clearly define team roles
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Address a topic with clear societal relevance and scientific basis
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Emphasise diversity in geography, gender, and professional background
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Highlight innovative approaches and potential public impact
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Include a realistic and well-justified budget
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the grants?
Media outlets must be the lead applicant, with a research or academic institution as co-lead. Freelancers and other partners may join but cannot apply independently.
2. Which media formats are eligible?
Print, broadcast, digital, multimedia, and documentary journalists are all eligible.
3. What topics can be proposed?
Topics must be evidence-based and of public interest, including climate change, healthcare, emerging technologies, and governance.
4. How much funding is available?
Tier 1: €10,000; Tier 2: €20,000; Tier 3: €50,000. Total 2026 call budget: €1 million.
5. How long can projects last?
Projects may last up to eight months.
6. What additional support is provided?
Mentorship, training, and networking opportunities with other grantees are included.
7. How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed by an independent jury based on merit, collaboration quality, societal impact, and scientific grounding.
Conclusion
The Journalism Science Alliance Grants 2026 provide a unique opportunity for journalists and scientists to collaborate on high-impact investigative projects. By combining media expertise with scientific research, these grants strengthen public understanding, foster cross-sector partnerships, and contribute to evidence-based dialogue across Europe.
For more information, visit Journalism Science Alliance.
