The Press On Freedomways Reporting Fellowship returns in 2026 with renewed energy and a strong commitment to supporting storytelling that uplifts justice movements across the American South. This eight-month virtual fellowship, running from March to October 2026, will select six emerging and mid-career journalists to develop one impactful longform, investigative, or enterprise story.
This program is designed for storytellers who want to deepen their connection to Southern communities and create journalism rooted in justice, collaboration, and lived experience. Fellows receive monthly mentorship, specialized training, access to investigative resources, and a total stipend of $8,000 to support their reporting journey.
About the Fellowship
The Freedomways Reporting Fellowship honors the legacy of Freedomways, a historic publication that amplified the voices of Black thinkers, artists, organizers, and journalists during the freedom movement. Press On continues this mission by empowering reporters who focus on urgent issues such as:
- Environmental justice
- Reproductive justice
- Trans liberation
- Migrant justice
- Community power-building
Throughout the fellowship, participants will work closely with seasoned editors, journalists, artists, and social movement leaders to expand their investigative abilities, refine their storytelling, and strengthen relationships with frontline communities.
Who Should Apply?
Press On encourages applications from individuals who are active in or connected to Southern justice movements. Priority will be given to applicants living in or reporting on the following regions:
Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Georgia, Oklahoma, and Puerto Rico.
Ideal applicants include:
- Community media workers
- Freelance journalists
- Mid-career reporters transitioning into independent media
- Creative nonfiction storytellers
- Writers affiliated with grassroots organizations or rural media
The program especially welcomes BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant, disabled, and rural-based journalists whose work uplifts marginalized voices.
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Fellowship Benefits
Participants receive a strong support system to help bring their story to life. Benefits include:
- $1,000 monthly stipend (a total of $8,000)
- Optional access to extra project-related funding
- One-on-one mentorship with experienced editors
- Investigative research tools
- Monthly virtual training sessions
- Guidance on pitching to media partners
- A virtual community of storytelling peers
Each fellow will publish one longform, investigative, or enterprise piece by the end of the program.
Fellowship Expectations
Selected fellows must:
- Develop a strong story pitch and reporting plan
- Attend regular mentorship check-ins
- Participate in required monthly trainings
- Create an engagement plan to amplify their reporting
- Submit their work to local, regional, or national media outlets
- Publish their final story before the fellowship ends
Important 2026 Dates
- March 11, 2026 – Virtual orientation
- Mandatory training dates: March 18, April 15, May 13, June 17, August 5, September 9
- June 3, 2026 – Mid-program check-in
- October 7, 2026 – Closing celebration
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a PDF story plan (up to 3 pages) outlining their reporting idea, sources, community connections, and potential impact. A personal statement, previous work samples, resume, and one professional reference are also required.
An optional information session will be held on November 12, 2025, and the application deadline is December 1, 2025.
For questions, applicants can visit the Freedomways Reporting Fellowship.
