Innovative Media Projects Secure Funding for Investigative Journalism and Inclusive Storytelling
Four innovative media projects aimed at serving the common good have received a major financial boost from the Media Forward Fund (MFF). A total of €1.58 million in funding was awarded to the emerging outlets, which are based in Austria and Switzerland. The recipients represent a range of approaches to journalism, demonstrating the MFF’s commitment to supporting diverse voices and innovative models.
Championing Inclusive Journalism: Another
The Austrian publication “another” was awarded €400,000, which will help it continue its mission of producing genuine and credible inclusive journalism. “another” brings together people with and without disabilities to research and write, creating a platform for diverse perspectives and stories that are often overlooked by mainstream media.
“In contrast to many other media, ‘another’ is successful in producing genuine and credible inclusive journalism with high-quality journalistic standards, even if it is time-consuming and therefore more expensive,” said the five-member jury.
With this funding, “another” plans to triple its number of paying subscribers, relaunch its newsletter, and develop engaging new social media formats.
Taking Investigative Journalism to the Stage: Dossier
“Dossier,” the Austrian investigative journalism platform, received €390,000 to pioneer a bold new concept: “slow journalism” on stage. This project will see the publication’s in-depth investigations and investigative reporter techniques brought to life through immersive theater productions.
This innovative theatrical approach has already been tested with success through the play “The Rise and Fall of Mr. René Benko” in collaboration with the Vienna Volkstheater. The project resonates with a growing desire for experiences that are both informative and engaging.
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“If the project proves successful, a completely new journalistic genre with an immersive character could emerge for the industry and establish itself as a new revenue model oriented towards the common good,” explained the jury.
“Dossier” plans to create three different live journalism formats and attract new paying members.
Reaching Younger Audiences with Ctrl+Alt+Investigate
The Swiss medium “Reflexion,” focusing on investigative work aimed at younger audiences, received €300,000. The outlet plans to expand its reach through the production of investigative videos formatted specifically for social media platforms.
Hyperlocal News for a Housing Crisis: Tsüri
The Zurich-based digital city magazine “Tsüri” was awarded €400,000 to address the city’s housing crisis through a new hyperlocal newsletter.
The MFF’s inaugural funding round received a phenomenal response, with 136 media companies from German-speaking countries submitting applications.
This generous funding benefits a diverse range of media projects undergoing critical phases.
This substantial investment underscores the MFF’s commitment to filling existing gaps in journalism and supporting underserved target groups.
Empowering Public Interest Media
The MFF welcomes applications for public interest media projects and initiatives after the idea phase.
Media that address underserved audiences and fill crucial gaps in information access are highly encouraged to apply.
The fund’s resources come from diverse sources, including notable foundations such as the Schöpflin Foundation, the Rudolf Augstein Foundation, the ERSTE Foundation, and the Datum Foundation for Journalism and Democracy. Impact investors and private individuals also contribute significantly to the fund.
Martin Kotynek, former editor-in-chief of the «Standard», serves as the MFF’s founding managing director.
The MFF has been endowed with nine million euros to date.
Three funding rounds are planned annually, with the next opportunity to apply opening in March 2025. Funding typically amounts to up to €400,000 per medium.
How might Dossier measure the impact and success of their “slow journalism” on stage project?
## Bringing Investigative Journalism to Life: An Interview with Dossier
**Host:** Welcome to the show! Today we’re talking about innovative approaches to journalism, and I’m delighted to be joined by [Name of representative from Dossier], the visionary team behind the “slow journalism” on stage project. Congratulations on securing funding from the Media Forward Fund!
**Dossier Representative:** Thank you so much! We’re thrilled and deeply grateful for this opportunity to pioneer a truly unique journalistic experience.
**Host:** Tell us: What exactly is “slow journalism” on stage?
**Dossier Representative:** Imagine taking the in-depth, meticulous work of investigative journalism and transforming it into a captivating theatrical performance. That’s the essence of “slow journalism” on stage. We delves deep into complex issues, uncovering hidden truths and giving audiences a chance to engage with investigative reporting in a profoundly immersive way.
**Host:** This sounds fascinating! What inspired you to bring this concept to life?
**Dossier Representative:** There’s a growing hunger for meaningful experiences, for connections that go beyond the surface. We believe that “slow journalism” on stage can bridge the gap between the information overload of our digital age and the human need for understanding and connection. By bringing investigative journalism to the stage, we create a space for empathy, critical thinking, and dialog.
**Host:** You’ve already had some success with the play “The Rise and Fall of Mr. René Benko.” What was the audience response like?
**Dossier Representative:** The response was overwhelmingly positive. People were deeply engaged, moved by the stories, and captivated by the unique blend of investigative journalism and theatrical artistry. It was inspiring to see how this format fostered a genuine connection between the audience and the issues at hand.
**Host:** What are your plans for the future of this project?
**Dossier Representative:** This funding allows us to develop three more unique live journalism formats, exploring a range of issues that matter to our community. We’re passionate about making investigative journalism accessible, impactful, and truly unforgettable.
**Host:** Thank you so much for sharing your vision with us today. We look forward to seeing the future unfold for “slow journalism” on stage.
**Dossier Representative:** Thank you! We’re excited to embark on this journey and invite everyone to join us in shaping the future of journalism.
