Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What activities will be offered through Next-IJ?

Next-IJ is providing hands-on training and a range of activities designed to support journalists in advancing their skills and expertise in investigative reporting. This is especially (but not exclusively) geared towards those engaging in uncovering and investigating cross-border crime and corruption. These activities include training workshops on data journalism tools such as (but not limited to) Aleph and Datacros, mentorship programmes with experienced journalists, networking opportunities with industry leaders, and access to cutting-edge tools and resources for investigative journalism. Participants can expect to engage in both virtual and in-person events, focusing on legal and ethical discernment, and hands-on investigative skill-building opportunities to uncover and investigate corruption, and organised and financial crime in multilateral cooperation and partnerships. Through these activities, Next-IJ is equipping journalists with the knowledge and practical experience to tackle pressing global issues with integrity and impact.

Who is eligible to participate in the Next-IJ's activities?

Journalists and media organisations from both EU and non-EU countries are eligible to apply for Next-IJ, provided they are based in one of the countries in the Creative Europe Programme and/or working for media outlets that serve these countries. Non-EU participants must adhere to fundamental rights, ethical principles, environmental and labour standards, and data protection rules. All applicants must align with the project’s objectives and ensure compliance with transparency, ethical journalism, and investigative reporting principles. For any additional clarification about eligibility, please contact us.

How can I apply to participate in Next-IJ’s programmes and initiatives?

Applications for Next-IJ’s trainings and “Investigathons” are typically announced through Next-IJ’s official channels including the News page of the website, mailing list, and social media channels. To stay updated on open calls, subscribe to the mailing list and follow Next-IJ’s updates. Interested applicants should regularly check for announcements, review the eligibility criteria, and ensure they submit their applications before the specified deadlines.

What exactly is an “investigathon”?

This is a term we coined for the project to address highly current, data-related challenges faced by journalists. It’s a combination of “investigation” and “hackathon”, and it’s a space where journalists can come together to collectively sift through available sources, develop story ideas, and workshop different ideas and challenges they are having. For more information and to stay posted about them, check out the News section.

Does Next-IJ facilitate collaborations between journalists from different countries?

Yes, fostering cross-border collaboration is one of Next-IJ’s key missions. This is achieved through workshops and training sessions designed to bring journalists together, facilitate knowledge-sharing, and strengthen collaborative investigative efforts across multiple countries. These initiatives provide opportunities for networking, skill development, and joint reporting, ensuring that journalists can work together effectively on complex, transnational stories.

Are there any funding or grant opportunities available through Next-IJ?

Next-IJ does not offer direct grants; however, stipends will be provided to support journalists participating in workshops and investigative projects. These stipends are meant to ease financial constraints and ensure that participants can fully engage in training sessions and cross-border investigations without additional financial burdens.

Can freelancers apply to participate in the workshops or do they need to be affiliated with a media organisation?

Freelancers are welcome to apply, as long as they are based in an eligible country (see the FAQ above about eligibility). While affiliation with a media outlet is not mandatory, applicants should demonstrate that their work will be published or disseminated to a relevant audience.

---