Application Deadline: June 17, 2020
The International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) is dedicated to furthering innovation and establishing best practices in the field.
Through a support from YouTube via the Google News Initiative, the IFCN has $1 million in grant funding available for established fact-checking units that are pursuing projects around video production, tools development, audience building, and new formats testing.
Tracks
Grants will be distributed based on proposals including, but not limited to, the activities below:
• Using video as a tool to disseminate accurate information
o Publishing fact check videos for new and traditional media outlets
o Running campaigns using video to increase media literacy among social media users
o Launching webinar series to train reporters on fact-checking skills
• Developing tools to support fact-checking workflows
o Supporting automation tools such as chatbots, database building, crowdsourcing
• Audience building for sustainability
o Leveraging existing or building new programs for crowdfunding, membership, and fundraising efforts
• New formats and mediums to expand the reach of fact-checking
o Testing and implementing new formats to reach out to wider audiences and have a larger impact
o Building collaborative efforts to tackle misinformation in national and regional scales
Funding
• Fact-checking units can apply for up to $50,000 each.
Eligibility
• Fact-checking organizations that are verified signatories of the IFCN’s Code of Principles and/or organizations that have been regularly publishing non-partisan fact checks over the last three months are eligible to apply.
• Applicants agree that if they are awarded a grant, the IFCN and YouTube may use data and information they provide in the initial application and subsequent reporting form with other fact-checking organizations.
• Each applicant/organization may only submit one application and a budget of up to $50,000.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee will review projects against the following criteria:
• Does the applicant have the potential to reach out to wider audiences through this support?
• Does the applicant demonstrate the capacity to deliver the project and carry out proposed activities?
• Does the project promise a contribution to fight against misinformation by carrying out the proposed activities?
• Does the project have the potential for sustainability for the applicant?
• Is the requested budget in accordance with the goals and scope of the project and can it be fully completed and implemented in the allocated time frame?
Application
All applicants will be first evaluated by their eligibility and then judged by an independent selection committee. In addition to grant funding, accepted applicants will get exposure at Global Fact 8 in June 2021.
For more information, visit Poynter’s International Fact-Checking Development.
