Join the Innovation Hub: Fully funded opportunity for Western Balkans journalists and content creators

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Two day on-site workshop to develop impactful storytelling and digital solutions on sustainability and accountability

Are you a journalism student, a young or mid-career journalist, or a content creator from the Western Balkans eager to shape the future of media? Do you want to play a pivotal role in covering the region’s green transition, shedding light on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and circular economy practices while holding stakeholders accountable?

The Innovation Hub is calling for passionate media professionals from the Western Balkans to apply for a unique, fully funded opportunity to develop digital content and media solutions that spotlight the region’s shift towards a more sustainable and just future.

The workshop is part of the Thomson Media and Open Society Foundation Western Balkans supported project Greening the Narratives: Advancing Awareness of the Green Transition in the Western Balkans.

During the two-day, in-person workshop, which will be held from 7 to 8 June 2025 in Subotica, Serbia, selected participants will collaborate with senior journalists, green transition specialists, and business development experts from across the Western Balkans and Central Europe.

Participants will dive deep into the evolving story of the green transition, exploring the media’s watchdog role and identifying new ways to inform and engage the public on environmental and energy-related issues. The workshop will focus on two key streams: content development and digital solutions/business model innovation.

What to expect

– Hands-on training: Learn from leading experts in solution journalism, creative writing, idea validation, and the green transition

– Mentorship: Receive personalised support from senior media and business development specialists

– Networking: Build connections with like-minded peers and professionals across the region

– Collaborative Projects: Work in teams to design and pitch actionable content strategies and digital products

– Follow-up Opportunities: Top ideas will receive support through Thomson Foundation’s Validation Booster  programme, with potential pathways to a Fellowship

Who should apply

The call is open to:

– Journalism students with a drive to address pressing societal challenges;

– Young and mid-career journalists committed to innovation;

– Content creators with fresh, impactful storytelling perspectives;

– Media initiatives founded by civil society organisations focused on social change

How to apply

Interested candidates must submit their applications by 11 May, 23:59 CET. Applications should include:

– A brief CV;

– A short note in the body of the email indicating the stream of interest: content development or digital solutions/business models;

– A motivation letter explaining their interest in the green transition and what they hope to gain from the Innovation Hub.

Applications and inquiries should be sent to [email protected]

The organisers will fully cover travel and accommodation costs for selected participants.

Read more HERE.

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