Deadline: March 8, 2026
The Tarbell Grants 2026 – Original Reporting on AI and its Impacts programme is a journalism funding opportunity designed to support in‑depth, original reporting on artificial intelligence and its growing influence on society. The grant enables journalists to investigate how AI is shaping technology, policy, labour, government, and public life across the world.
This opportunity is ideal for journalists who want the time and resources to pursue ambitious stories that deepen public understanding of artificial intelligence and hold powerful institutions accountable.
Grant Overview
The Tarbell Grants support original journalism projects that explore the development, deployment, and consequences of artificial intelligence. Funded projects are expected to produce high‑quality reporting that contributes meaningfully to public discourse on AI and its societal implications.
The programme is open to journalists globally and supports a wide range of reporting formats, including investigative, explanatory, and analytical work.
Grant Value
Successful applicants can receive funding ranging from:
- US $1,000 to US $20,000 per project
The final grant amount is determined by the scope, depth, and feasibility of the proposed reporting project.
What the Grant Supports
The Tarbell Grants 2026 support reporting on artificial intelligence, including but not limited to:
- Investigative reporting on major AI companies and industry actors
- Coverage of AI policy, regulation, and political influence
- Explanatory journalism that demystifies AI technologies
- Analysis of AI use in government and military contexts
- Reporting on the impact of AI on labour, employment, and society
- Stories examining AI developments in China and other global contexts
Projects should be original, well‑researched, and designed to reach and inform a broad audience.
Who Can Apply
The Tarbell Grants are open to:
- Experienced journalists and media creators worldwide
- Freelance journalists and staff reporters
- Journalists without a formal AI background (prior AI expertise is not required)
Applicants with experience in investigative, technology, or policy reporting are encouraged to apply, though strong journalistic skills and a compelling proposal are the primary requirements.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on the following criteria:
- Impact – the potential of the story to influence public understanding or policy discussions
- Reach – the anticipated audience size or distribution potential of the work
- Journalistic quality and experience – the applicant’s track record and the strength of previous work
- Feasibility – how realistic, well‑planned, and achievable the proposed project is
Application Deadline
- March 8, 2026
Applicants are advised to submit their proposals well before the deadline to allow time for review and refinement.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their story idea, reporting plan, and expected impact.
Apply for the Tarbell Grants 2026
Read more about the Tarbell Grants programme
Need Help With Your Proposal?
If you need professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, feel free to contact us. We provide tailored assistance to help strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
