Call for Investigative Journalism Story Pitches on Transnational Crimes (May to September 2023)

Call Number: 010/2023 (SMAZ)

Deadline: There is no proposal deadline, so you can submit whenever you want between now and September 2023. The proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with grant choices made within two to four weeks of submission.

The Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe (VMCZ) is inviting journalists and documentary filmmakers to pitch story ideas on investigative journalism (IJ) on transnational crimes. The call for investigative story pitches is part of VMCZ’s objective of strengthening watchdog journalism and media reporting for accountability. An investigation that will break new ground and result in a series of stories will be highly considered for funding.

The main criterion for eligibility is that the pitch should include the following:

• 1 (one)- in-depth investigative story with thorough investigations on transnational organised crimes
• 1 (one)- follow-up story to the in-depth investigative story published

Selection Criteria: Grants will be offered to journalists with the strongest applications. Applications will be judged on the quality of the story pitch, the applicant’s journalism skills as indicated by their work samples, and evidence of support from the applicant’s editor.

Pitches and investigative story ideas that will be supported should positively answer the following:

1. Is this an underreported issue of local concern?
2. Is the story breaking new ground and exposing wrongdoing in public or private sectors?
3. Is the story likely to get traction or impact?
4. Is the reporter/outlet best positioned to tell the story?

Number of Required In-depth Investigative Stories: TWO ie ONE with a provided mentor and the other ONE on your own.

Each successful pitch will be supported with a ceiling payment in the amount of US $600. The support shall cover direct costs that shall be incurred by the newsroom/ journalist/s in the production of the investigative story.  The costs are limited to courier services, transportation, communication, lodging among other surface costs.

Deadline: This mentorship program will continue until September 2023. All the applications should be submitted to: mediacomplaints@gmail.com and copied to director@vmcz.co.zw

Attachments: Please submit the completed application form with a signed acknowledgment note from an editor as a guarantee that your story will be published after a successful application process and production. Freelance journalists can make their applications directly.