Global Investigative Journalism Conference Fellowship 2027

Applications are open for the Global Investigative Journalism Conference Fellowship 2027, an international opportunity for professional journalists to participate in one of the world’s major gatherings dedicated to investigative reporting. The fellowship will support selected journalists to attend the 15th Global Investigative Journalism Conference, scheduled to take place in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from October 19 to October 23, 2027.

The conference is co hosted by the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) and the Dutch Flemish Association of Investigative Journalists, known as VVOJ. The event brings together investigative reporters, editors, data journalists, media professionals and experts from around the world to share knowledge, explore emerging reporting techniques and strengthen international collaboration.

The 2027 conference will feature more than 150 expert panels, practical workshops and networking opportunities. Participants will explore methods for conducting investigations across borders, using artificial intelligence in journalism, applying online research techniques and working with data and satellite imagery. Sessions will also address climate change, corruption, press freedom challenges and the use of technology to hold powerful institutions accountable.

About the Opportunity

The Global Investigative Journalism Conference is organised by the Global Investigative Journalism Network in partnership with VVOJ. It provides a space for journalists to learn from experienced practitioners, exchange investigative methods and develop professional relationships with colleagues working in different countries and media environments.

The 2027 gathering will take place in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, with the main conference activities scheduled for October 20 to October 23. October 19 is designated for pre conference activities.

The programme is expected to address both established investigative reporting methods and new approaches to journalism. Participants can learn about digital research, data journalism, artificial intelligence, cross border investigations and techniques for reporting in environments where press freedom is restricted. The event also provides opportunities to discuss safety, responsible reporting and ways to maintain rigorous journalistic standards while investigating complex issues.

The fellowship helps eligible journalists who might otherwise face financial barriers to attending. Full fellowship support is available, and the organisers may also offer partial fellowships depending on available funding.

Opportunity Benefits

Full fellowship recipients receive support covering several major costs associated with attending the conference.

• Round trip airfare to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, or the nearest major airport.

• Transportation between the airport and the conference hotel.

• Hotel accommodation for four nights.

• Access to the conference and payment of the registration fee.

• Breakfast during conference days from October 20 to October 23.

• Lunch on full conference days from October 20 to October 23.

• Access to the cocktail reception on the evening of October 19.

• Participation in the award ceremony dinner on the evening of October 22.

• Opportunities to learn from experienced investigative journalists and subject specialists.

• Networking with journalists and media professionals from more than 100 countries.

• Opportunities to develop professional relationships and explore potential international collaborations.

Important funding note: The full fellowship does not cover visa fees, a daily allowance or transportation between an applicant’s home and their departure airport. Applicants should plan for these expenses. Partial fellowships may also be available, but the number and level of awards depend on funding.

Conference Focus Areas

The conference will offer training and discussions across several areas of investigative journalism.

• Investigative reporting: Techniques for uncovering wrongdoing, examining public institutions and holding powerful actors accountable.

• Data journalism: Methods for analysing information and using evidence to produce strong, accurate stories.

• Artificial intelligence: Investigating and using AI tools responsibly in journalistic work.

• Digital research: Online search techniques and methods for finding, verifying and analysing information.

• Cross border investigations: Collaboration among journalists working across countries and jurisdictions.

• Climate and environmental reporting: Investigating climate change and related issues through evidence based journalism.

• Corruption and accountability: Reporting on abuses of power and examining institutional conduct.

• Satellite imagery and technology: Using specialised tools and emerging technologies to support investigations.

• Press freedom and journalist safety: Learning from journalists who continue investigating in restrictive or high risk environments.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to professional journalists working in different media formats. Applicants should review the official country eligibility information before applying.

• Applicants must be professional journalists working in print, online, television, video, radio, documentary or multimedia journalism.

• Freelance journalists from developing or transitioning countries may apply.

• Journalists from the Global South are particularly encouraged to apply.

• Applicants from historically underrepresented groups are prioritised.

• Experience in investigative journalism or data journalism is an advantage.

• Applicants should have a working knowledge of English because the conference panels and workshops will be conducted in English.

• Fellowship applications must be submitted in English.

• Applicants should demonstrate how participation would benefit their reporting and professional development.

• Applicants who cannot afford to attend and come from a country outside the listed eligible countries may still apply and explain their circumstances in the additional notes section.

Fellowship Requirements

Selected fellows must contribute to sharing the knowledge they gain at the conference. Following the event, each fellow is required to complete one of the following activities:

• Produce a story directly related to the Global Investigative Journalism Conference 2027.

• Deliver a presentation to colleagues or the wider journalism community based on knowledge gained during the conference.

Applicants should review the detailed fellowship guidelines to understand the expected outputs and reporting requirements before submitting an application.

How to Apply

1. Review the official fellowship information. Visit the Global Investigative Journalism Conference fellowship page and read the eligibility criteria, country information and fellowship requirements.
2. Assess your eligibility. Confirm that your professional journalism experience and circumstances align with the programme requirements. Investigative or data journalism experience can strengthen your application.
3. Prepare your application in English. Explain your professional background, your interest in attending and how the conference training could improve your reporting or benefit your journalism community. Follow the instructions in the official application form.
4. Explain the value of your participation. Make a clear case for how you intend to use the conference sessions, workshops and networking opportunities in your work.
5. Consider partial fellowship support if necessary. The application process allows applicants to indicate whether they wish to be considered for a partial fellowship.
6. Submit your application before the deadline. Complete the online application by January 31, 2027, and review your responses before submitting.