The Public Interest Journalism Lab (PIJL), in cooperation with the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), has announced a new Open Call for applications for its Scholarship Support Project 2026, offering financial and professional support to Ukrainian independent media outlets and journalists. This initiative is part of the Voices of Ukraine project, included in the SAFE programme coordinated by the ECPMF and implemented under the Hannah Arendt Initiative.

This scholarship opportunity aims to empower journalists and media outlets reporting in Ukraine, particularly in regions affected by conflict and emergency situations, to continue producing high-quality, public interest content under challenging conditions.

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Introduction and Background

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has put immense pressure on independent media outlets and journalists, especially those operating in frontline areas or high-risk zones. Access to reliable funding is critical for these professionals to continue reporting on public interest issues without compromise.

The Scholarship Support Project 2026 seeks to provide targeted financial support to:

1. Independent regional media outlets operating in conflict-affected zones.

2. Individual journalists producing original content of public interest under emergency conditions.

The project prioritizes media organizations and journalists whose work is particularly vulnerable or impossible without external support. This ensures that funding is strategically allocated to maximize the continuity of independent reporting across Ukraine.

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Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following conditions to be considered for the scholarship:

1. Professional experience: Minimum of 2 years in journalism or media work.

2. Location: Must be based and operating in Ukraine, with preference for those in frontline areas, combat zones, or relocated from temporarily occupied territories.

3. Content production: Must create unique journalistic content of public interest.

4. Priority considerations:

   • Media outlets operating near the frontlines or in high-risk areas.

   • Individual journalists whose work would be impossible without funding.

   • Preference for coordinated applications from newsroom staff with approval from editors-in-chief.

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Funding Details

The scholarship provides financial support in Euro, converted to Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) based on the current exchange rate:

1. For Media Outlets:

   • Monthly scholarship: €900

   • Total funding: Up to €7,200

2. For Individual Journalists:

   • Monthly scholarship: €600

   • Total funding: Up to €2,400

This support is designed to sustain ongoing journalistic activities and ensure the continuity of public interest reporting in challenging environments.

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Program Details

• Type of Support: Financial scholarship for sustaining journalism operations.

• Duration: Varies based on monthly allocation (media outlets up to 8 months; individual journalists up to 4 months).

• Focus Areas: Reporting on public interest topics, particularly in conflict-affected and high-risk regions of Ukraine.

• Project Affiliation: Voices of Ukraine, SAFE programme, Hannah Arendt Initiative.

This initiative allows recipients to continue professional journalism in situations where funding gaps may otherwise jeopardize operations or limit reporting capabilities.

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How to Apply / Application Process

Applicants are required to complete a registration form via the official online portal. Steps include:

1. Visit the official registration link: Scholarship Registration Form

2. Fill in professional and organizational details.

3. Submit proof of journalism experience (minimum 2 years).

4. Outline your public interest journalistic work and the expected impact of the scholarship.

5. Media outlets should coordinate with editors-in-chief for internal approval.

6. Individual journalists must ensure their reporting is independent and public-interest focused.

For inquiries or clarifications, applicants can contact the PIJL team directly at: lambo@journlab.online.

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Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 10 February 2026

• Notification of Results: Expected in March 2026 via email

• Commencement of Scholarship Support: Following notification

Applicants are advised to submit early to avoid delays and ensure full consideration of their applications.

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Conclusion

The PIJL & ECPMF Scholarship Support Project 2026 represents a vital funding opportunity for Ukrainian independent media outlets and journalists, particularly those operating under challenging conditions in conflict-affected areas. By providing targeted financial support, this programme ensures that high-quality, public interest journalism can continue to thrive despite adversity.

This scholarship not only safeguards journalistic operations but also strengthens the resilience and sustainability of Ukraine’s independent media landscape.

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Click here to apply

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For more opportunities visit Opportunities for youth