Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Earth Journalism Network offers reporting grants to journalists in Ghana, Mexico, the Philippines, and other coastal countries to cover progress toward the 30×30 marine conservation targets. Grants fund investigative and solution-focused reporting on marine protected areas, industry impact, community involvement, and policy frameworks, providing up to US$1,500 per story with editorial mentorship. Stories must be completed and published by 30 November 2026.
Overview
The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) provides grants to journalists producing in-depth coverage of marine conservation, specifically focusing on the 30×30 global targets—protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
Key goals include:
- Highlighting government commitments, funding, and regulations for 30×30 targets.
- Investigating the impact of protected marine areas (MPAs) and conservation measures.
- Examining the influence of fishing fleets, industries, and local communities.
- Exploring technological tools for monitoring and managing MPAs.
- Evaluating policy, financial frameworks, and transparency in conservation efforts.
The initiative prioritizes underreported topics, cross-sectoral stories, and approaches such as investigative journalism, cross-border collaboration, and solutions-focused reporting.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Individual journalists or reporting groups.
- Applicants from Ghana, Mexico, the Philippines, and other coastal countries with marine borders.
Requirements:
- One lead applicant must coordinate and communicate for group submissions.
- Stories must focus on marine conservation, including MPAs, regulations, and real-world impacts.
Grant Details
- Funding per story: Average US$1,500.
- Number of grants: Up to 35 globally, with portions reserved for Ghana, Mexico, and the Philippines.
- Budget focus: Reporting costs (travel, accommodation, translation). Equipment purchases should be minimal.
- Freelancer stipend: Allowed but must not exceed 30% of the total budget.
Key Focus Areas for Reporting
- Government policies, regulations, and funding for marine conservation.
- Impact and management of marine protected areas.
- Influence of fishing fleets and commercial industries.
- Community participation in MPA governance.
- Use of technology for monitoring marine ecosystems.
- Policy and financial frameworks supporting conservation goals.
- Transparency and accountability in establishing and managing MPAs.
How to Apply / How It Works
- Develop a story proposal: Identify an underreported topic or investigative angle.
- Prepare a detailed budget: Include travel, accommodation, and translation; keep equipment costs minimal.
- Submit the application online: Include story focus, methodology, and proposed publication timeline.
- Receive mentorship: Selected journalists work with experienced editors to refine reporting.
- Complete and publish stories: All grants must result in published stories by 30 November 2026.
Best Practices & Tips
- Focus on real-world impacts of MPAs rather than abstract policies.
- Highlight cross-sectoral collaboration and community engagement.
- Use investigative and solutions journalism techniques to enhance public discourse.
- Ensure budget allocations align with reporting needs and grant restrictions.
- Coordinate effectively if applying as a group, designating a clear lead applicant.
Why It Matters
These grants empower journalists to raise awareness about global marine conservation efforts, ensuring transparency, accountability, and public engagement. By supporting investigative and solution-driven reporting, the program strengthens the global conversation around ocean protection and sustainable resource management.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for these grants?
Individual journalists and groups from Ghana, Mexico, the Philippines, and other coastal countries.
2. What is the grant amount?
Average funding of US$1,500 per story.
3. How many grants will be awarded?
Up to 35 globally, with a portion reserved for Ghana, Mexico, and the Philippines.
4. What is the project deadline?
All stories must be completed and published by 30 November 2026.
5. Can the grant cover equipment costs?
Only minimally; the budget should primarily cover reporting-related costs like travel, accommodation, and translation.
6. Are group applications allowed?
Yes, with one lead applicant responsible for coordination and communication.
7. What types of stories are prioritized?
Investigative, cross-sectoral, solution-focused, and underreported marine conservation stories.
Conclusion
The EJN marine conservation grants provide journalists with financial support and editorial guidance to produce impactful stories on 30×30 targets. By highlighting real-world MPA outcomes, policy effectiveness, and community engagement, the program strengthens global awareness and promotes sustainable ocean conservation.
For more information, visit Earth Journalism Network.
