NEWS - Journalism Partnerships – Pluralism

Overview

Supports collaborative projects between journalism organizations and research institutions to strengthen media pluralism, enhance public interest journalism, and improve the use of scientific evidence in news reporting. Targets consortia of media outlets, academic institutions, and civil society organizations.

Who Can Apply

Consortia composed of at least one journalism organization (e.g., news outlets, press agencies, media associations) and one research institution (e.g., universities, think tanks, fact-checking organizations). Public bodies, non-profits, and private entities may participate if aligned with the call’s objectives.

Funding Details

• Total budget: €5.0 million
• Grant amount per project: €200,000 to €500,000
• Funding rate: Up to 80% of eligible costs for non-profit entities; up to 70% for for-profit organizations
• Co-funding: Required for the remaining percentage (20–30%)

What Is Funded

Projects focusing on:

• Strengthening collaboration between journalists and researchers to improve evidence-based reporting
• Developing tools, methodologies, or platforms to enhance media pluralism and combat disinformation
• Training programs for journalists on scientific literacy or research methodologies
• Initiatives to increase transparency and public trust in journalism through research-backed practices
• Cross-border or pan-European projects addressing shared challenges in media pluralism

Technology / Maturity Requirements

No explicit Technology Readiness Level (TRL) requirements. Projects must demonstrate feasibility and a clear pathway to implementation, with a focus on scalability or replicability across EU member states.

Key Dates

• Call opens: 2026-01-18
• Application deadline: 2026-03-22

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage application submitted via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must include a detailed project plan, budget, and consortium agreement.

Post-Award Obligations

• Regular progress reports (frequency not specified)
• Dissemination of project results, including public-facing outputs (e.g., publications, events, or digital tools)
• Compliance with EU visibility requirements (e.g., acknowledgment of EU funding in project materials)

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU member states, Horizon Europe associated countries, and third countries explicitly listed in the call
• Application language: English

Notes

• Projects must align with EU values, including freedom of expression, media independence, and democratic principles.
• Preference may be given to cross-border consortia or projects addressing underrepresented regions or communities.
• Overhead costs are eligible up to 25% of direct personnel costs.