California Programs: How to apply

Applications should include:

  • Personal Statement and Project Proposal: Tell us about yourself and why you want to participate in the program (250 words). Provide a description of the project you’re pursuing. Consider these questions: What is your long-term goal for this project? How would you like to see the community or policy benefit from this work? What makes this reporting new or important? (No more than 500 words)
  • Deliverables Statement: Number of stories you’ll be reporting, and tentative story themes or focus, including any multimedia elements you plan to incorporate (photos, video, audio, graphics, etc.) (750-1,000 words)
  • Proposed Budget: Please provide a grant amount requested and a rough breakdown of how you plan to use the funds. 
  • Three samples of your most recent work
  • Editor reference letter and completed Editor Checklist form
  • Resume

Who is eligible to apply?

  • California-based professional journalists (including freelancers and national correspondents with California-focused projects). We have accepted reporters in the past across all levels, from the smallest rural newspapers to national outlets. 

We give preference to:

  • Applicants who have a minimum of three years of professional journalism experience
  • Reporters pursuing collaborative projects between mainstream and ethnic news outlets

Frequently Asked Questions

Don’t see your question answered there? Reach out to us directly: editor@centerforhealthjournalism.org