The European Commission has launched a call for proposals in the field of data-driven news production. Applicants are invited to submit proposals to increase reporting on European issues from pan-European viewpoints and/or by comparing different viewpoints from within Europe, using data-driven techniques.
Data-driven techniques can increase reporting on European topics (i.e. the range of topics that are addressed by the EU) by making it easier for media companies/journalists to produce innovative and attractive content around such topics, allowing citizens to be better informed about the EU.
This Call aims to support the production and dissemination of such content, while respecting complete editorial independence. Content can for instance make use of data research, visualise data to compare viewpoints across Europe, help audiences understand complex topics through clear and factual reporting, contextualise story timelines and/or encourage interaction with the audience.
Proposals should establish a professional editorial team with members from at least four EU Member States, to gather and produce content on a regular basis. Proposals should involve as many media/journalists and end-users across the EU as possible, to help increase the coverage as well as the republication of content in media outlets and social media across the EU.
Applicants must indicate how they intend to generate a European perspective i.e. add value to existing reporting on EU affairs by newswires and national/regional media outlets.
The Call is open both to news reporting and more in-depth background reporting on current affairs. It is open to all types of media. The choice of formats being produced for these media should be cost-effective and in line with the news consumption habits across Europe.
The total budget available is estimated at 1.9 million Euros. The maximum EU co-financing per project is 700.000 Euros. The maximum co-financing rate is 80% of eligible costs.
Grants will start between 1 January 2019 and 1 April 2019, covering at least 20 months and maximum 26 months.
For related documents and further information visit a dedicated European Commission web page.