Are you a climate journalist from a low- or middle-income country looking to report from the heart of international climate negotiations? The COP30 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship 2025 is now open for applications. This prestigious fellowship provides an opportunity for early-career and experienced journalists alike to cover the landmark COP30 event in Belém, Brazil, from November 10–21, 2025.
In its 18th year, the program is organized by the Climate Change Media Partnership (CCMP), a collaboration between Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) and the Stanley Center for Peace and Security. Over 500 journalists have already benefited from this initiative since 2007.
Fellowship Details and Benefits
The COP30 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship 2025 will support both in-person and virtual reporting formats.
🛫 For In-Person Fellows
Selected journalists will receive:
- Roundtrip economy-class airfare
- Shared accommodation
- Daily meals and ground transport
- Travel insurance and visa fee reimbursement
- Press credentials for full COP30 access
- Stipend for incidentals
- Pre-event online workshops
- Daily briefings and mentorship throughout COP30
🌐 For Virtual Fellows (Pacific Island Journalists Only)
- Internet/communication stipend
- Full access to livestreamed events
- Online orientation and mentorship
- Facilitated remote interviews and story support
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the COP30 fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a professional journalist from a low- or middle-income country
- Not have attended any previous COP events in person
- Be proficient in English
- Submit two published climate-related work samples (between July 15, 2024 and July 15, 2025)
- Submit a 2-minute video pitch outlining your story plans for COP30
- Freelancers must include a signed letter of editorial support from a media outlet. Staff reporters need a supervisor’s endorsement
How to Apply
Applications are open from June 16 to July 15, 2025 (11:59 PM Pacific/Niue time).
Ensure all documents and links are submitted through the Earth Journalism Network’s portal by the deadline. Shortlisted fellows will be contacted by early September 2025.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Demonstrated experience in climate/environmental reporting
- Clear, compelling story pitch related to COP30 themes
- Proven support from media outlets to publish produced stories
- Geographic and media format diversity
Expert Advice from Grant Database
According to our Proposal Review Lead at GrantsDatabase.org:
“To stand out in the COP30 fellowship selection process, applicants must present a strong, original reporting angle that links global negotiations to local climate issues. Back your idea with credible sources, and secure solid editorial commitment.”
Ensure your pitch:
- Has a human-centered story hook
- Connects regional impacts to global policy
- Shows a distribution plan across platforms
For expert guidance, contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review. Early support can improve the clarity and structure of your pitch video and application form.
Final Thoughts
The COP30 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship 2025 is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for journalists from the Global South to make their voices heard in the global climate conversation. With full financial and editorial backing, selected fellows will cover one of the most critical COP events yet—right from the heart of the Amazon.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the climate story that shapes our world.
