The Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026 is officially launched to support Ukrainian independent media outlets and journalists through targeted financial assistance. The initiative is implemented by Public Interest Journalism Lab in cooperation with the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom.
This opportunity aims to strengthen public-interest journalism in Ukraine by providing monthly stipends to media professionals working under challenging conditions. The application deadline is 10 February 2026.
Brief Information
The Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026 offers financial stipends to Ukrainian journalists and independent media outlets. The program prioritizes public-interest journalism, regional reporting, and media operating in war-affected or emergency environments. Support is provided for several months to help ensure continuity of journalistic work.
Key Dates & Details
- Application Deadline: 10 February 2026
- Location / Type: Ukraine | Online application
- Target Group: Ukrainian independent media outlets and journalists
- Funding / Benefits:
- Up to €900 per month for media outlets
- Up to €600 per month for individual journalists
- Duration: Up to 8 months (depending on category)
- Organisers: Public Interest Journalism Lab & European Centre for Press and Media Freedom
Table of Contents
Overview
The Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026 is designed to ensure that independent journalism in Ukraine continues despite ongoing economic, security, and operational challenges. The program provides direct financial support to journalists and editorial teams producing original public-interest content.
The call is part of a broader European initiative aimed at protecting media freedom and strengthening independent reporting. Special attention is given to regional and local media outlets, as well as journalists working in or displaced from areas affected by military activity.
Through this Open Call, Public Interest Journalism Lab and its partners seek to maintain a diverse and resilient media landscape in Ukraine by supporting journalists who contribute to transparency, accountability, and informed public discourse.
In addition, the Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026 aims to reinforce the sustainability of independent journalism ecosystems in Ukraine by reducing financial pressure on newsrooms and individual reporters. By offering predictable monthly support, the program enables beneficiaries to focus on investigative reporting, fact-based storytelling, and community-oriented journalism. The initiative also contributes to safeguarding editorial independence and media pluralism at a time when reliable information remains critical for democratic resilience, social cohesion, and international awareness of developments in Ukraine.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Ukrainian independent media outlets or individual journalists
- Minimum of two years of professional journalistic experience
- Currently operating in Ukraine or relocated due to war-related circumstances
- Producing original journalism focused on public interest topics
- Independent from political parties or state authorities
Both individual journalists and media organizations are encouraged to apply under the appropriate category.
Application Details
To apply for the Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026, applicants must:
- Complete the official online application form
- Provide background information on journalistic work and experience
- Describe the type of content and public-interest focus
- Submit relevant samples or links to published work
All applications must be submitted before 10 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
FAQ
Who can apply for the Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026?
Ukrainian independent media outlets and journalists with at least two years of experience.
What financial support is provided?
Media outlets can receive up to €900 per month, while individual journalists may receive up to €600 per month.
Is the program open to journalists from war-affected regions?
Yes. Priority is given to applicants working in or displaced from conflict-affected areas.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is 10 February 2026.
Official Link
Apply and read the official call here:
Public Interest Journalism Lab Open Call 2026:
https://www.ecpmf.eu/public-interest-journalism-lab-pijl-and-european-centre-for-press-and-media-freedom-ecpmf-announce-a-new-open-call-for-the-scholarship-support-project-in-2026/
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