The Pascal Decroos Fund for Investigative Journalism is Journalismfund's first and oldest grant programme to promote investigative journalism in the Dutch-language media in Belgium since 1999. These are projects that have great news value and depth, and at the same time are original, innovative and time-consuming, and would not be realised without financial support. The Flemish government is subsidising this programme with the aim to keep the memory of Pascal Decroos alive and to continue his life's work.

FOR WHO

Professional journalists

We encourage starters as well as experienced journalists to apply.

The results of the research must be published in a Dutch-language medium in Belgium.

HOW MUCH

€280.000

In 2025, there will be €280,000 to distribute over four application rounds, which means approx. €70,000 per round. The programme is subsidised by the Flemish government.

NEXT DEADLINE

6 February 2025

For this grant programme, there are 4 application rounds scheduled in 2025:

  • The first application deadline will be Thursday 6 February 2025 at 1 pm CET.
  • The second deadline will be Thursday 15 May 2025 at 1 pm CEST.
  • The third deadline will be Thursday 21 August 2025 at 1 pm CEST.
  • The fourth deadline will be Thursday 13 November 2025 at 1 pm CET.

How to apply?

Before you start, please consult the grant details, where you can find the rules, eligibility criteria, timing etc.

You can easily apply via our online application form. You'll be asked to provide us with:

  • personal details
  • information about the project
  • information about the dissemination of your story
  • a detailed budget

Please make sure you have following documents at hand:

  • copy of your ID (for Belgian residents) or passport
  • CV
  • letter(s) of intent of (a) Flemish media outlet(s) (for journalists with less than 2 years of experience this is not a formal requirement)
  • a detailed budget (please use our budget template)

Need help?

We're always happy to discuss your project ideas or to help you with your application in a personal way. So don't hesitate to contact us via phone or mail, or to make an appointment for a video call at a time of your convenience.

This is a new application platform; if you would encounter any problems or have remarks, please contact us. Your comments will certainly contribute to a better platform.