IRE’s Freelance Fellowships are awarded for non-fiction project proposals which demonstrate impact, breadth and significance. Proposals for books, documentaries, cable series and other long-form projects are eligible. IRE also accepts proposals for shorter term work such as video or audio projects for broadcast or online sites, articles for newspapers, magazines, online sites and niche news publications, among others.
Proposals that deal with whistleblowers, business ethics or privacy issues will be given priority.
Who is eligible?
Journalists who make their living primarily as freelancers and need assistance in conducting investigative projects. Freelance journalists who will publish the work primarily in the U.S. and in outlets where the primary audience will be at least a part of the American public.
What does the fellowship provide?
Long-term project – Up to $4,000 and a one-year IRE membership
Short-term project – Up to $2,000 and a one-year IRE membership