Call for Project Proposals: Media Development for Democracy Resilience

The #SustainMedia programme invites independent media organisations operating in the Western Balkans to apply for grant support under one of two funding tracks. LOT 1 (Media Business Development) provides up to EUR 70,000 over up to 24 months for approximately ten organisations focusing on business model innovation, digital transformation, and media collaboration. LOT 2 (Thematic Journalism, Content and Audience Development) provides up to EUR 20,000 over up to 12 months for approximately fifteen organisations producing high-quality, evidence-based journalism on either democracy resilience and EU integration, or climate action and the green transition. Both lots combine financial support with tailored mentorship and capacity-building. An online information session is scheduled for 20 October 2026 at 10:00 AM.

Details

• Applicants must be established and operating in one of the Western Balkans 6 economies; public broadcasters and state-controlled media are not eligible.
• Applicants must be independent private sector media companies or non-for-profit media outlets with proven commitment to professional and ethical journalism standards, transparent ownership, and no involvement of state or political actors.
• LOT 1 focuses on business innovation, audience development, digital transformation and organisational efficiency, and media collaboration and partnerships.
• LOT 2 thematic areas are: (1) Democracy Resilience and EU Integration — covering electoral integrity, good governance and rule of law, and countering digital threats to democracy; and (2) Climate Action, Environmental Resilience and Green Transition.
• Partnerships with civil society organisations, research institutions, technology actors, and other media outlets are encouraged.
• Applicants may submit only one application (either LOT 1 or LOT 2), submitted by email to the GIZ address using the templates provided.

How to participate

Download the appropriate Application Package (LOT 1 or LOT 2) from the call page and submit by email to sustainmedia@giz.de by 08/11/2026. Join the free online information session on 20 October 2026 via the link on the call page.  Apply here.

For more information, please visit this page.