Content Production Fund

• Eligibility Criteria: Demonstrate a commitment to producing high-quality, independent, cross-regional multimedia journalism featuring perspectives or issues from more than one Western Balkan country. Propose investigative, in-depth, and cross-border content that is impactful for communities. Clearly show the intention and capacity to include underrepresented groups such as minorities, youth, women, and other marginalized communities. Be legally registered in their country of operation on or before 1 January 2023. Provide the required supporting documentation (financial statements, tax certificates, legal status documents, editorial policy, business registry certificate). Not hold an active grant from any other BIRN granting scheme during the proposed implementation period. Demonstrate readiness to engage in on-the-job mentoring, following guidance provided by BIRN’s assigned mentors. Only complete applications will be considered.
• Type of Funding: Content production grants supporting investigative, cross-border, and multimedia journalism.
• Target Region: Western Balkans (media outlets operating in the region).
• Application Language: English.

Objectives

• Strengthen the quality and professionalism of journalism in the Western Balkans.
• Support the production of cross-regional multimedia stories published in English and local languages.
• Enhance journalists’ skills through on-the-job training and mentoring.
• Promote impactful and inclusive journalism that highlights marginalized and under-reported communities.
• Improve the sustainability of independent media through lifeline production support.

Project Themes

• Cross-border investigative journalism involving more than one Western Balkan country.
• Multimedia stories with a strong investigative angle and clear impact on local, national, or regional communities.
• Content that highlights issues affecting underrepresented groups, including minorities, youth, women, and marginalized communities.
• Journalism formats may include audio, text, video, analysis, investigations, or multimedia storytelling.
• Additional relevant investigative engagement stories may also be proposed.

Financial Support: Total available funding: up to €60,000.

Application Deadline: 10 December 2025

See here to learn more and apply

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