The Tarbell Center for AI Journalism has launched another round of its AI reporting grants, offering financial support for in-depth investigations and features on the impacts of artificial intelligence. The announcement, made via the organization's social media, emphasizes a commitment to fostering rigorous journalism in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Applications for this funding round are open until September 14, 2025.
The grants aim to enable ambitious reporting projects that scrutinize AI's societal implications, covering areas from the operations of leading AI companies to national and international policymaking. According to the Tarbell Center, they are particularly interested in stories that unpack the integration of AI in government and military sectors, explain AI capabilities and safeguards, and analyze trends shaping the future of society with advanced AI.
Grants typically range from $1,000 to $15,000, though larger amounts may be awarded for exceptional projects. The funding is designed to cover various reporting costs, including journalists' time. Both freelance and staff reporters worldwide are eligible to apply, with the Center prioritizing experienced journalists who have a track record of impactful reporting. The organization stated in its tweet, > "We want to enable ambitious investigations and features on AI and its impacts."
The Tarbell Center for AI Journalism operates as a non-profit dedicated to supporting journalism that helps the public understand AI and holds power accountable. Beyond these reporting grants, the Center also runs the Tarbell Fellowship, a program for early-career journalists providing funded placements at major newsrooms like TIME, MIT Technology Review, and The Information, alongside intensive training in AI governance and technical fundamentals.
This initiative underscores the growing recognition of journalism's crucial role in navigating the complexities of advanced AI. By providing financial backing for investigative work, the Tarbell Center seeks to ensure that critical stories about AI's development, deployment, and societal consequences are brought to light, fostering informed public debate and accountability.