Independent Journalism Consortium in Europe

Background
The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Independent Journalism Consortium in Europe. This program aims to support fact-based independent journalism that addresses public policy issues related to sovereignty, civilizational values, and democracy in Europe. The initiative seeks to enhance the quality of journalism and promote informed public debate on critical issues affecting democratic governance.

Grant Details
The program will establish a consortium of journalists and independent media organizations across the European Union (EU) and other European countries. Key tasks include:

1) Producing well-researched, fact-based reporting on public policy issues affecting democracy and fundamental freedoms;

2) Developing a consortium that facilitates information sharing, joint reporting projects, and professional development among journalists;

3) Focusing on long-term impacts of policies on democratic governance;

4) Ensuring that all reporting is non-partisan and adheres to high journalistic standards. Illustrative topics for reporting include mass migration impacts, freedoms of expression and religion, national sovereignty, demographic trends, and public attitudes toward government policies.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include U.S.-based non-profit organizations/NGOs, foreign-based non-profit organizations/NGOs, private or public institutions of higher education, and for-profit organizations or businesses. All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov and a valid registration in SAM.gov. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

Period of Performance
The project performance period is up to 24 months from the anticipated start date of September 28, 2026.

Grant Value
$1,000,000 is the total value of the grant with one anticipated award approximately equal to this amount.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will be performed across multiple countries within the European Union and other European countries.