Civitates is a philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting democratic values in Europe,  aimed at establishing  a strong network of independent news organizations of public interest that defend democracy in Europe by covering stories of social importance.

Through this project, the Fund aims to provide support in the field of operational and institutional strengthening of its partners, in order to build more permanent, resilient, networked and influential news organizations of public interest in Europe.

In order to apply to the call, news organizations must meet the following requirements:

–  They are engaged in journalism of public importance that informs the public about what is important to everyone in society, reporting on the common good, general well-being and security and the well-being of everyone in the community;

–  They are independent of political, trade and religious interests;

–  They are engaged in investigative journalism;

–  They are registered as non-profit organizations;

– They are registered as legal entities and have a proven practice of at least 12 months of active coverage;

– They adhere to high professional standards, including a commitment to truth and accuracy, fairness and impartiality, humanity, transparency and accountability.

Grant amounts may vary in accordance with the following conditions:

– Organizations with an annual budget of up to € 100,000 can apply for funding up to 50% of their annual budget;

– Organizations with an annual budget of up to € 200,000 can apply for funding up to 40% of their annual budget;

– Organizations with an annual budget of more than € 200,000 can apply for funding up to 30% of their annual budget.

The duration of the grant can be up to 3 years (potentially renewable for another two years).

The application deadline is June 30, 2020.

Further information on the terms of the call is available on  https://civitates-eu.org/request-for-proposals-independent-public-interest-journalism/

Source: Civitates and Coordination Body