Competition for journalists ubder the MOST initiative

The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) is launching an open call for journalists interested in producing in-depth investigations. The call supports investigative stories on key social, political and economic issues in EU member countries and EU aspiring countries. Selected journalists will receive a grant of €1,140 per story and mentoring support from BIRN editors/mentors to help them produce impactful stories that foster accountability and public awareness.

This call is part of the Media Organisations for Stronger Transnational Journalism (MOST) initiative, which aims to enhance the resilience of non-profit media in reporting on European issues, drive innovation in foreign reporting and strengthen media organisations’ capacity by fostering collaboration and sharing best practices across borders. MOST brings together seven media organisations, including BIRN and partners from Italy, Spain, Ukraine, Poland, France and the Netherlands.

Journalists are eligible to participate if they meet the following conditions:
– currently work in or publish stories covering EU member countries or EU aspiring countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine and Kosovo);
– apply as individual journalists (the grant is not collaborative);
– each applicant can propose one investigative story;
– are able to work in English (complete the form and submit documents in English).

Grants cover the costs of producing investigative stories (€1,140 per story)

– Production and publication of investigative stories shedding light on key social, political and economic issues in EU member countries and EU aspiring countries.

Applications submitted November 2025 – February 2026 will be decided in March 2026.

– Before applying, click “HERE” on the BIRN website to read the full call for applications.
– After reviewing the information, follow the link to the online application form: https://be.ecrtool.org.
– Complete the form in English.
– Attach two mandatory documents in English:
– a CV;
– a signed letter of support from the media outlet where the story will be published.

1. POTENTIAL OF THE PROPOSED STORY – maximum 25 points.
– tackles critical social, political or economic issues;
– has investigative and in-depth potential;
– includes specific cross-cutting issues such as the promotion of gender equality, respect for human rights and marginalised groups.
2. CAPACITY – maximum 25 points.
– applicant demonstrates significant experience in producing investigative stories;
– applicant demonstrates previous experience related to the topic of the proposed story.
Maximum total score – 50 points.

– CV in English;
– signed letter of support in English from the media outlet where the story will be published.

– After a positive decision, the applicant signs a contract with BIRN and becomes a grant recipient.
– Stories produced with the support of this grant are published under a licence that allows MOST partners to republish the content for free.