The Equality Fund Journalism Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications. The deadline is November 8, 2026 at 11pm Eastern Standard Time. This fellowship supports journalists in ODA-recipient countries who want to report on local solutions to global crises with a focus on gender.
Up to five journalists will be selected. Fellows will receive a CAD $4,000 stipend and up to CAD $500 in reporting expenses. In addition, the program includes training, monthly meetings, publication support, and travel coverage for one in-person convening.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: November 8, 2026 at 11pm Eastern Standard Time
Eligible Countries: ODA-recipient countries; Global South (as described by Equality Fund)
Program Duration: 6 months of programming, plus an additional 3 months to finalize publication (Jan–Sept 2027).
Program Location: Applicants must be located in and reporting on communities in ODA-recipient countries; programming is primarily virtual with one in-person convening (location and timing TBD; travel expenses included).
Funding/Benefits: CAD $4,000 stipend; up to CAD $500 in reporting expenses
Award Provider: Equality Fund
About this Program
The Equality Fund Journalism Fellowship is a reporting fellowship for journalists based in the Global South. It focuses on stories about local responses to global crises, with attention to gender.
The fellowship runs for six months of programming, followed by three more months to finalize publication. During this period, fellows join monthly online meetings, receive expert-led training, and take part in safety training.
Fellows are expected to produce at least one published story. They should also follow trauma-informed reporting practices. Where possible, fellows are encouraged to conduct community roundtables.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have a minimum of three years of journalism experience.
- Applicants must be located in, and reporting on, communities in ODA-recipient countries.
- Applicants must be fluent in English, which is Equality Fund’s working language.
- Both full-time staff journalists and independent freelance journalists may apply.
- Applicants must have an account with a bank able to accept international Electronic Wire Transfers.
- Applicants must be able to accommodate meetings during daytime hours in Eastern Standard Time.
- Use of AI in the proposal and application is not permitted.
- Any AI use during the journalistic process must be disclosed and approved.
- Women, non-binary, and trans people are encouraged to apply. Applications are welcomed from women, men and LGBTQI+ people.
What Fellows Receive: CAD $4,000 stipend; up to CAD $500 in reporting expenses; travel expenses included for one in-person convening; monthly online meetings led by journalists and experts; safety training from IWMF and Freedom of the Press Foundation; editorial independence and publication support.
Program Components
Fellows will participate in monthly online meetings and trainings. They will receive safety training and reporting support. They will also attend one in-person convening, with travel expenses covered. Fellows retain intellectual property, while Equality Fund retains the right to reproduce the work to promote the fellowship.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the online application form before the deadline. Applicants are required to submit three journalism samples. In addition, shortlisted applicants will be asked for a letter of editorial commitment from a news outlet.
Before applying, review the fellowship requirements carefully. Then prepare your reporting idea and supporting materials in line with the official guidance.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
