EJN Reporting Fellowships Offer Support for Climate and Private Sector Stories in Bangladesh

Journalists in Bangladesh have an opportunity to produce in-depth reports on the critical intersection of climate change and the private sector. The Earth Journalism Network (EJN), through its Business and Climate and Media Initiative (BCMI), is offering up to 10 fellowships. These fellowships aim to support journalists in creating impactful stories that explore how climate change affects businesses in Bangladesh and what actions the private sector can take to address the climate crisis.

Fellowship Focus Areas

The EJN Reporting Fellowships are designed to encourage reporting on several key themes. These include the specific impacts of climate change on Bangladesh’s private sector and the initiatives businesses are undertaking to combat it. Fellows can also explore how various players within the sector can contribute to climate solutions.

Other areas of focus include the role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) rules in shaping business practices. The fellowships also welcome pitches on climate finance instruments, such as carbon markets, and the new business opportunities emerging from climate change, like renewable energy and clean mobility. Additionally, reports can examine the influence of artificial intelligence development on climate and business, as well as the issue of corporate greenwashing.

Grant and Eligibility Details

Selected fellows will receive a grant of 1,500 EUR to cover necessary reporting expenses, including travel and accommodation. The fellowships are open to journalists from Bangladesh only, though groups of journalists can apply with one lead applicant responsible for communication and fund receipt. Applications can be submitted in either English or Bangla.

The program welcomes applications from journalists working in any medium, including online, print, television, and radio. Practitioners with professional reporting experience are encouraged to apply, regardless of their career stage. EJN is keen to receive applications from freelancers and staff members of all types of media organizations, from international to local and community-based outlets. Applicants must be transparent about their use of generative AI tools in their proposals, as submitting AI-generated content as their own may lead to disqualification.

Selection Criteria for Proposals

When developing their proposals, applicants should consider several factors to strengthen their applications. The relevance of the story to the call’s objectives is paramount, along with a clear definition of why the story matters and to whom. A fresh angle or new insights into a topic, especially if it has been previously covered, will be highly valued.

The reach of the proposed media outlet is also important. Journalists whose work is typically behind a paywall are encouraged to secure commitments for wider accessibility or request exceptions to ensure their EJN-supported reports can reach a broader audience. Proposals should demonstrate a compelling narrative or investigative element that will inform, engage, spark debate, and encourage action. The use of innovative storytelling techniques, multimedia, and data visualization will be considered a plus.

Finally, applicants must include a letter of support from an editor, committing to the timely publication or broadcast of the reports by September 30, 2026. This ensures a plan for publication is in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the EJN Reporting Fellowships?

The fellowships aim to support journalists in Bangladesh to produce in-depth reports on how climate change affects the private sector and what actions businesses can take to address it.

Who is eligible to apply for these fellowships?

Journalists from Bangladesh are eligible, including freelancers and staff from any media type (online, print, TV, radio). Groups can apply with one lead applicant.

What is the grant amount for the selected fellows?

Each selected fellow will receive a grant of 1,500 EUR to cover necessary reporting expenses like travel and accommodation.

What are some of the key topics journalists can cover with these fellowships?

Topics include climate change impacts on businesses, private sector climate solutions, ESG rules, climate finance, new business opportunities from climate change, AI’s influence, and corporate greenwashing.