About the opportunity
Created in 2008, the Freelance Fellowship provides cash awards to independent journalists to support nonfiction investigative projects that demonstrate impact, breadth, and significance. Eligible projects include books, documentaries, cable series, long-form projects, and shorter-term work such as articles for newspapers, magazines, and online sites, or video/audio projects for broadcast or online platforms. Priority is given to proposals dealing with whistleblowers, business ethics, or privacy issues. The fellowship is intended to support work that will be primarily published or broadcast in the U.S. and in outlets where the primary audience will be at least a part of the American public.
Funding and benefits
- Long-term project: Up to $4,000, a one-year IRE membership, the choice of attending either the NICAR or IRE Conference, and a two-hour consultancy for reporting and legal services from Freelance Investigative Reporters and Editors (FIRE).
- Short-term project: Up to $2,000, a one-year IRE membership, the choice of attending either the NICAR or IRE Conference, and a two-hour consultancy for reporting and legal services from Freelance Investigative Reporters and Editors (FIRE).
Who can apply?
- Journalists who make their living primarily as freelancers.
- Applicants must need assistance in conducting investigative projects.
- The work must be intended for primary publication or broadcast in the U.S. and in outlets where the primary audience is at least partially the American public.
Required documents
- Three clips showcasing investigative work.
- Detailed explanation of freelance status.
- Project description.
- Budget plan explaining how the money will be spent.
- Plan for raising additional funding if required.
- Information on intended publication/broadcast outlets and any discussions held with them.
- Specifics of any signed contracts with publishers or broadcast outlets.
- Expected delivery date of the project to a potential publisher or broadcast outlet.
When to apply
- Applications are due September 1st.
How to apply
- Apply online via the provided application form.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Independent journalists who primarily work as freelancers.
- Reporters focused on investigative projects involving whistleblowers, business ethics, or privacy.
- Journalists seeking support for projects intended for U.S.-based publication or broadcast.
What should you think carefully about?
- The funding is project-based and capped at $4,000, so it may not cover all costs for long-term investigations.
- Applicants must provide a clear plan for raising additional funding if the project budget exceeds the award amount.
- You must demonstrate a clear path to publication or broadcast, including evidence of discussions with outlets.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is an excellent goal for a freelancer looking to bridge the gap between a compelling investigative pitch and a finished, high-impact piece. By providing both direct financial support and professional resources like legal consultancy and conference access, it helps journalists elevate the quality and reach of their work while building a stronger professional network.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for established freelance investigative journalists with a concrete, U.S.-focused project. Those without a clear publication plan or those seeking full-time salary support may find this less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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