European Federation of Journalists

European Federation of Journalists

EFJ launches National Capacity-Building Fund to support journalists’ organisations


The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) has launched a National Capacity-Building Fund aiming to improve the capacity of national journalists’ organisations to protect and promote rights and EU values in the field of media freedom and media workers’ rights. The initiative also aims to create a more supportive environment for civil society organisations and human rights defenders working to support journalists, with activities at both local and national levels. 

This call for proposals is launched in the context of an EU-funded Project “IMPACT, Independent Media Promoting Accountability, Community, and Trust in European Democracy”.

Only journalists’ organisations who are EFJ members based in the EU can apply for the fund. The grant aims to provide support to improve their capacity building in defending the rights of journalists. In particular decent working conditions through social dialogues with employers’ organisations, training, organising and reaching out to vulnerable groups of media workers (such as freelance journalists, young and female journalists who are hardest hit by the crisis)  exchange of information and research/external expertise. It will also address the broader challenge of media violations from physical and legal threat, government restrictions through better advocacy and implementation of EU rules. 

For more information and the application processes of the above call, please download the following documents: 

  1. Guidelines for applicants
  2. Application form
  3. Annex 1 Estimated budget 
  4. Annex 2 Statement of exclusion

The deadline for application is 2 March 2026. The EFJ is holding an online Info Session on the National Capacity-Building grants on Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 12pm (Brussels time). If you have further questions, please register to attend the info session HERE. 

FAQs

  • To whom should we submit our application? All applications must be submitted to EFJ Administrative Assistant, Giorgia Avola (giorgia@europeanjournalists.org)
  • As the call requires lump sum funding for staff, are any other documents required? NO. If granted, the organisation will be requested to submit a signed list of participants and an activity report to claim the lump sum costs.
  • Is this project completely or partially funded? The projects will be 100% funded by the EFJ.
  • My organisation is based in a non-EU country. Can we still apply? Unfortunately no. While we want to give equal opportunities to our members, this funding is from an EU project which mandates that only organisations from the EU are eligible.
  • My organisation is a member of an EFJ member. Can we apply? This is not possible, as only EFJ members can apply.
  • I am not sure about my project idea. Can I get additional assistance? YES. If you need some help drafting your application or have other questions, please write to EFJ Projects Officer, Rebecca Bonello Ghio (rebecca@europeanjournalists.org).

The Independent Media Promoting Accountability, Community, and Trust in European Democracy (IMPACT) project will run from 1 January to 31 December 2026 and is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the EFJ only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.