The Pulitzer Center AI Accountability Fellowships 2025–2026 is a prestigious, 10-month, fully funded journalism fellowship offering up to $20,000 USD in support. The fully funded opportunity for journalists empowers journalists from around the world to investigate the real-life impacts of AI and predictive technologies—from policing and healthcare to hiring practices and social welfare systems.
Designed for journalists committed to accountability reporting, the Fellowship supports projects that dig deep into how governments and corporations use AI. The program fosters in-depth storytelling, collaborative learning, and community impact while ensuring editorial independence. Applications are now open and due by August 11, 2025, at 11:59 PM EDT.
Fellows gain access to mentorship, expert-led training sessions, legal support, and a global peer network. Projects should use investigative tools like data analysis, records requests, and field reporting to reveal underreported issues and challenge power structures.
Quick Overview of Pulitzer Center AI Accountability Fellowships 2025–2026
- Host Organization: Pulitzer Center
- Program Duration: 10 months (September 2025 – July 2026)
- Deadline: August 11, 2025 (11:59 PM EDT)
- Location: Remote (open to global applicants)
- Fellowship Grant: Up to $20,000 USD
- Eligibility: Freelance or staff journalists working in any format
- Focus Areas:
- AI in government and corporate systems
- Transparency and governance of AI
- Cross-border AI supply chains
- Legislation and regulatory issues
- Real-world harms and accountability gaps
Perks of the AI Transparency Fellowship by Pulitzer Center
- Up to $20,000 in funding to support your project
- Pro bono legal and public records access support
- Monthly virtual training sessions with AI experts and journalists
- Dedicated mentor and access to Pulitzer’s editorial team
- Join a global network of AI-focused journalists
- Opportunities to present work at public events and conferences
- Participation in a community of practice, including:
- Monthly 1.5–2 hour meetings
- Peer-led community calls
- Interactive online platform for collaboration
Benefits of the Global Journalism Fellowship for Artificial Intelligence
- Learn cutting-edge techniques in AI reporting
- Strengthen your investigative and accountability portfolio
- Share findings and raise public awareness
- Publish stories with international relevance and local depth
- Engage with diverse peers, mentors, and legal advisors
- Past fellows’ work has influenced policy, laws, and education
Exclusions of the Pulitzer Center AI Accountability Fellowships 2025–2026
- You must apply with a specific project (not a general theme)
- English proficiency is required (application and communications)
- Editorial independence is respected, but participation in Fellowship meetings is mandatory
- AI Reporting Grant is a better fit if you cannot commit to regular Fellowship sessions
Eligibility Criteria of the AI Algorith Impact Journalism Fellowship
- Open to freelance and staff journalists in any country
- You must be:
- Experienced in investigative, data-driven, or explanatory reporting
- Passionate about how AI impacts policy and society
- Willing to collaborate and contribute to community learning
- Able to commit to 10 months of engagement and deliverables
- You do not need prior experience reporting on AI, but a strong accountability track record is essential
- Journalists from the Global South and underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply
Important Dates of the Pulitzer Center AI Accountability Fellowships 2025–2026
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline to Apply: August 11, 2025 (11:59 PM EDT)
- Fellowship Start: September 2025
- Fellowship End: July 2026
- AMA Webinar: July 18, 2025, at 9 AM EDT
How to Apply for the AI Accountability Fellowships
- Visit the official application page at https://pulitzercenter.submittable.com/submit/218563/ai-accountability-fellowships
- Prepare the following materials:
- Statement of Purpose (500 words): Why this Fellowship suits your career path
- Project Proposal (500 words): A concrete, well-researched AI accountability story
- Detailed Budget (up to $20,000)
- Three Published Stories (past 3 years, any topic)
- Letter of Commitment from a newsroom (or editor’s letter for staff reporters)
- Three References (contacts or letters)
- CV or Resume
- Submit all materials online by August 11, 2025
Required Documents for the Pulitzer Center AI Fellowship 2025–2026
- Statement of purpose (500 words)
- Project proposal with evidence of pre-reporting (500 words)
- Budget plan (including travel, research, and stipends)
- Three examples of recently published work
- A letter of support from an editor or media outlet
- Resume/CV
- Three references or recommendation letters
Country-Specific Criteria for the Fellowship Opportunity
There are no nationality restrictions. Journalists from any country and working in any language or format may apply. The application and fellowship activities will be conducted in English.
