The closing date for applications to the winter round of the Simon Cumbers Media Fund has been extended to Wednesday, 6th November 2019 at 5pm. Journalists and photographers who are interested in travelling to a developing country to report for an Irish media outlet on the realities of contemporary life there are invited to submit a proposal.
Supported by Irish Aid, the Government’s overseas aid programme, the Fund enables journalists to report on stories of contemporary life in developing countries that otherwise would not be told to Irish audiences. It was set up in memory of Irish journalist and cameraman Simon Cumbers, who was killed while on assignment in Saudi Arabia in 2004.
For this round, the Fund is particularly interested in proposals that relate to the topic of climate action. However, all development-focused proposals will be considered. Applicants must clearly demonstrate the relevance of their proposed project to one or more of the priorities set out in A Better World, Ireland’s Policy for International Development. Proposals should also relate to international development themes, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Applications from journalists from all media disciplines and outlets are encouraged. Photographers may also apply for funding to present a photographic exhibition as part of their submission. Applications will be assessed by the judging panel against criteria that includes the potential of the project to increase awareness and understanding of international development issues in Ireland, as well as the potential reach of the project.
