Apply Now for Pluralistic Media for Democracy

The new grant programme Pluralistic Media for Democracy is now open to receive applications; a media pluralism fund that will inject €1.400.000 financial support to local and regional outlets, community media, investigative journalism, and public interest news organisations that operate in “news deserts” or areas experiencing strained media pluralism. 

Do you want to reach an important niche audience or diversify your business model? Innovation is key to staying relevant as a media outlet. Journalismfund Europe and IMS announce the launch of an innovative project, “Pluralistic Media for Democracy“. Through strategic support in innovation, business sustainability, and audience engagement, the programme will empower media organisations to continue their critical role in upholding democracy and fostering informed public discourse across Europe.

Who can apply?
Any incorporated legal entity can apply with a registered seat in one of the EU27 countries, including Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia & Serbia.

How much is it possible to apply for?
In general, we ask applicants not to design a project starting from a target amount, but the other way around: start from a relevant project proposal, and then draft a realistic budget. The total available amount to be distributed is €1,400,000.

When is it possible to apply? 
The first deadline is on 13 February 2025 and the second deadline is on 12 June 2025. 

Application process, who can apply and the selection criteria can be found on our website here and in the Q&A section. Practical support and online information sessions will be provided to potential applicants during the pre-application phase. Register for our introductory webinar on 6 November 2024 here to dispel your doubts.

We will also have a webinar in Polish and another one in Serbo-Croatian. 

The project is co-funded by the European Commission (Creative Europe). It started on 1 October 2024 for 24 months. Two calls for proposals will be published in November 2024 and March 2025 for local and regional outlets, community media, investigative journalism, and public interest news organisations located in areas where media pluralism is strained to apply. 

Another project called Local Media for Democracy was completed in 2024. The 42 supported initiatives can be found here.

A report with key findings and recommendations of relevance for future programming of this kind can be found here.