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BIJF Small Grants Program

Part of the Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship

About

The Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship (BIJF) is a unique initiative aimed at shedding light on Bulgaria’s dynamic and evolving role within Europe and the world. As an E.U. and NATO member state, Bulgaria sits at the crossroads of geopolitics, society, and culture—serving as a key point of connection between East and West, tradition and innovation.

Despite its pivotal position, many of Bulgaria’s most compelling stories remain untold on the international stage. The BIJF was created to empower Bulgarian journalists and storytellers to produce high-quality, fact-based reporting that captures the complexities, challenges, and opportunities shaping Bulgaria’s evolving democracy and society.

From geopolitical shifts and economic transformations to cultural achievements and human-interest narratives, the BIJF supports journalism that informs, engages, and inspires international audiences.

About the BIJF Small Grants Program

  • While all story ideas are welcome, BIJF encourages original and surprising pitches that shed light on Bulgaria’s interconnectedness with Europe and the world in the context of a shifting global landscape and today’s cultural, economic and environmental dynamics.

  • Selected journalists will receive

    • Small Grants: Successful pitches will receive small grants depending on story length, complexity, and format.
    • International Exposure: The program will try to provide you with assistance in reaching Western media outlets.
    • Community and Collaboration: Join a budding network of BIJF Senior Fellows, Student Fellows, and other professional journalists committed to telling impactful stories.

  • The BIJF is open to journalists, storytellers, and media creators from around the world who

    • Have a compelling idea that connects to Bulgaria and resonates with international audiences.
    • Demonstrate a commitment to journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, and independence.
    • Are experienced or emerging professionals interested in in-depth storytelling.
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What we support

The BIJF is dedicated to fostering journalism across a variety of formats:

Written Documentary and Visual

Written
Journalism

 ‌

Documentary & Visual Storytelling
Features, essays, investigations, and in-depth analysis. ‌ Films, photo essays, and multimedia narratives.

‌
Audio Multimedia

Audio
Journalism

Innovative
Digital Reporting
Podcasts and storytelling with sound. ‌ Interactive formats and data-driven journalism.

Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship Small Grants Finalists Featured Image

Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship Small Grants Finalists
Educating for Uncertainty: AUBG Article Published in Foreign Policy Magazine Featured Image

Educating for Uncertainty: AUBG Article Published in Foreign Policy Magazine

Apply

Rolling submissions are accepted. Early submission is encouraged.

To apply, please submit the following:

  • Story Proposal

    A summary of your idea (150–300 words).

    The intended format (e.g., long-form article, podcast, photo essay).

    Why the story is relevant to Bulgaria and international audiences.

  • Your Approach

    A brief outline of your reporting process, research plan, and any anticipated challenges.

  • Background and Work Samples

    A short bio, including relevant journalism experience.

    Links to previous work samples (if available).

Send application

Journalistic Principles

  • Free from external influence or funding pressures.

  • Respect for multiple perspectives and the right of reply.

  • Commitment to rigorous fact-checking and credible sources.

  • Stories that pursue truth through thorough research and reporting.

  • Engaging, accessible, and well-crafted narratives.

The CIDC at AUBG is committed to strengthening independent journalism, supporting public discourse, and promoting democratic values. By fostering impactful journalism, the Center provides essential tools and platforms for understanding Bulgaria’s evolving place in Europe and the world.

The BIJF is implemented with the financial support of the America for Bulgaria Foundation. All statements and opinions expressed by the BIJF are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the America for Bulgaria Foundation. ABF is a private, non-partisan foundation whose mission is to promote Bulgaria’s private sector development and the related democratic institutions.  

Contact us

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