Finding the right grant for your journalism project can be a daunting task. Grants serve different purposes for different situations, so it is important to make sure you find the one that is right for you. Here are some guidelines to help you in your search.
Decide What Story You Want to Cover
This is the first and most important step of the application process. Choosing which story you want to pursue will dictate which grants would be best for you, as parameters vary based on location, background, and current situation. Selecting a specific story will also help your application stand out. A compelling story can make it easier to convince organizations that supporting you is the right choice.
Assess Your Situation
It is also important to step back and assess your current situation. Why do you need a grant? Depending on your circumstances, different paths might be more suitable. For example, if you need financial support for educational pursuits, a fellowship or scholarship might be appropriate. If you need financial support for your own protection or because you are being censored, then a grant might be better. All grants and fellowships have a specific purpose, and the more you can narrow down why you need the support, the better.
Be Thorough with Your Research
Use all the resources at your disposal. There are databases, such as the one provided by the FPA, to search for grants and fellowships that may be right for you. Look for testimonials from journalists about different grants and see what they have to say about their experiences. Reach out to anyone you know who may have applied for one. It is important to conduct extensive research because the right grant for you might be overlooked among the many available. Be patient with your research and explore as many avenues as you can.
In conclusion, applying for grants and fellowships is an extensive process, and it is important to find the right ones for you before starting. You want to give yourself the best chance possible of being accepted, and finding the right fit is a key factor in achieving that.