The design and approach of the submitted projects must be convincing: the plans must be well thought out and elaborated, the method of gathering information (archive, interviews, travel) must show good mutual coherence and there must be a real chance of feasibility. The applicant must be able to demonstrate - depending on the type of project - that he or she has the necessary knowledge or experience to implement the plan.

To increase the accessibility of the Fund and the quality of the applications, the Fund is strongly committed to providing assistance and advice to applicants. Applicants can ask the project coordinator of the Fund to review their application in advance. He can point out any unclarities or missing information and suggest improvements before submitting them to the jury. However, this does not in any way guarantee a positive evaluation of the project. That decision is made independently by the jury.

The Jury meets approximately every three months to review the received grant applications (see also "timing"). In the event of a rejection, the applicant will receive a brief explanation of the Jury's decision.

Tips

Subject of research

  • Ask yourself: why do I want to research this and what I'm willing to invest in it (mostly in terms of time) ? 
    In other words: do I have enough passion for the subject?
  • Is it innovative, original enough? Does my proposal add something significant to what has already been published about the subject?
  • Ask yourself which format is the best to present the outcome of your research. Should it become an article or a book? In the latter case: Why? Does the subject offer sufficient material for a book?
    Also you might think about publishing in different media since your research has been done anyway. 
  • Ask yourself why the project should be financed by the Fund and not by the regular market. 
  • Consider a collaboration with other journalists, especially if the topic has an international angle. In that case you might also be interested in Journalismfund's European Crossborder Grants or Moneytrail Grants. 
  • (Hard) investigative journalism is encouraged.

Preliminary research

  • Do a thorough preliminary investigation.
  • Talk to others (whether or not expert) about the need and feasibility.
  • Ask your publisher/editor-in-chief to actively contribute ideas.
  • Consult with the Fund (preferably by telephone or e-mail).
  • Use the Pascal Decroos Fund application form as a guide.

Submitting the application

  • The project proposal must be as accessible, clear and compelling as an article.
  • Check for style and language errors and inaccuracies.
  • The work plan must provide insight into oral and written sources.
  • Request realistic amounts. Prepare a detailed budget. It is also useful for yourself (how much do I earn / is it worth the trouble). For more information about the budget: see the guide.
  • Ask your publisher/editor-in-chief for an enthusiastic letter of support/letter of intention
  • Submit well in advance of the deadline, then the Fund can give suggestions for improvement if you wish
  • Look at the other projects that were subsidized by the Fund.