Applications are now being accepted for the 2025/2026 Pulitzer Center AI Accountability Fellowships. This initiative is designed to empower journalists to produce comprehensive and impactful investigative stories that delve into the influence, advantages, risks, and governance challenges associated with artificial intelligence. The program offers a platform for selected media professionals to explore how algorithmic systems are financed, developed, and implemented by influential organizations, including governments and private entities.

The Pulitzer Center is looking to select between eight and ten journalists from any part of the globe who are interested in reporting on the social, political, and economic effects of automated technologies on their local communities. This global cohort will work over a 10-month period, beginning in September 2025, to explore stories that uncover the realities and implications of AI in diverse contexts.

Each selected participant will receive financial assistance of up to $20,000 to support their reporting efforts. This grant may cover a range of expenses such as obtaining official records, travel and accommodation, data work, and personal stipends. Beyond monetary support, the program offers valuable access to expert mentors, peer collaboration, and specialized training sessions aimed at enhancing investigative capacity and storytelling impact.

Fellows will be required to actively take part in a monthly virtual meeting that lasts about one and a half to two hours. They will also be expected to participate in at least one group discussion and remain engaged with other fellows through online forums and scheduled virtual events. While these interactions are essential to the fellowship’s collaborative nature, they also provide opportunities to gain new insights and improve the quality of everyone’s work through shared experiences.

In addition, participants are encouraged to attend monthly workshops focused on building technical and thematic knowledge. These sessions and peer interactions are vital components of the fellowship, meant to foster cross-cultural dialogue and spark connections between seemingly unrelated stories. For journalists interested in similar themes but unable to commit to the fellowship’s schedule and responsibilities, the Pulitzer Center also offers AI Reporting Grants as an alternative funding opportunity.

To apply, candidates must submit a written statement describing how the fellowship aligns with their career trajectory and why they are particularly suited for this opportunity. Applicants should also provide a thoroughly developed proposal for their intended reporting project, which must reflect preliminary research and a clear plan of execution rather than general ideas. A realistic budget outlining expected costs—such as software, fieldwork expenses, data services, and compensation—should accompany the proposal. If the total cost of the project exceeds the fellowship’s funding limit, other financial sources must be disclosed.

Additional application materials include links to three recent, high-quality stories published in the last three years (not necessarily related to AI), a letter of support from an editor or media outlet confirming intent to publish the final report and support the journalist’s participation, and three professional references or recommendation letters. Applicants must also attach their current resume or CV.

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