2026 CIJ Climate Investigations Scholarship: Advanced Training in Climate Journalism
Job Description
Applications are now open for the CIJ Climate Investigations Scholarship 2026, a prestigious opportunity for journalists looking to enhance their skills in investigative reporting focused on climate change. This program, organized by the Center for Investigative Journalism (CIJ), will select 10 journalists for a rigorous online training course designed to produce impactful, evidence-based climate investigations.
The scholarship provides access to expert guidance, investigative tools, and techniques for producing high-quality climate stories that can influence policy, regulation, and public awareness.
Scholarship Overview
- Number of Scholarships: 10
- Funding/Value: Up to £2,638 per participant
- Mode: Online
- Dates: 11 March – 7 May 2026
- Duration: 24.5 hours of hands-on training across four modules
Participants will gain skills in:
- Conducting in-depth investigative research into climate change
- Quantifying environmental impacts with data-driven methods
- Using ECOSINT tools for environmental and climate intelligence
- Crafting compelling stories that drive change in policy, economic, or regulatory spheres
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the CIJ Climate Investigations Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be an early- to mid-career journalist based in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, West Asia, or South Asia
- Have experience in investigative journalism, particularly with environmental or climate-related topics, or demonstrate strong interest in climate reporting
- Possess advanced or professional-level proficiency in English (reading, listening, and speaking)
- Commit to attending all modules of the Climate Investigations Course (CIC)
Training Modules
The scholarship involves four specialized modules totaling 24.5 hours of practical training:
- Climate Investigation Fundamentals – Core principles and methodologies
- Investigating Climate Finance – Understanding and exposing financial flows
- Data-Driven Climate Investigations – Research, verification, and data analysis techniques
- ECOSINT: Environmental and Climate Open Source Intelligence – Leveraging publicly available data for investigative reporting
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: 12 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 11 February 2026, 23:59 BST (UK time)
- Offers to Successful Applicants: By 25 February 2026
- CIC Spring Training Start: 11 March 2026
- CIC Spring Training End: 7 May 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit early to ensure consideration. Full details of the application process, including required documents and eligibility confirmation, can be found on the CIJ website.
The CIJ Climate Investigations Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for journalists seeking to develop expertise in environmental reporting and produce influential stories that promote accountability and positive change in climate policy.
