The Pulitzer Center has launched a special call for proposals inviting journalists to report on the impact of unprecedented cuts to U.S. health aid across the Global South. This funding opportunity aims to support in-depth, high-impact stories that bring eyewitness accounts from affected communities to U.S. audiences.
As U.S. health assistance programs face significant reductions—including the winding down of initiatives linked to USAID—many health advances in Africa and other regions now face an uncertain future. The Center is seeking ambitious reporting that highlights the human consequences of these changes.
Priority Reporting Areas
The Pulitzer Center is particularly interested in proposals that explore:
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Children’s health
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Women’s health, including maternal care
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HIV control and treatment, and other infectious diseases
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Programs addressing malnutrition, starvation, and waterborne diseases
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Underreported scientific research or ground-level aid disruptions
Journalists are also welcome to apply with other compelling health-related stories that align with the broader theme.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply, you must be:
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A staff reporter or editor with a U.S.-based newsroom, or
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A freelancer with a confirmed commitment—or strong interest—from a U.S. outlet or a publication with a significant U.S. audience.
This special grant is specifically intended for stories that will reach audiences in the United States.
Grant Funding & Budget Guidelines
The Pulitzer Center is seeking ambitious, high-quality reporting in:
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Text
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Visual journalism
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Audio
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Multimedia formats
Funding range:
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$5,000 to $20,000, depending on the scope and ambition of the project.
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Budgets exceeding this range must demonstrate exceptional potential for reach and impact.
For freelancers, proposals may include a reasonable stipend, but the majority of funds should cover travel and essential reporting costs.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the deadline.
Deadline
March 30, 2026
Journalists are encouraged to apply early, as submissions will be assessed as they are received.
Previously Supported Health Projects
The Pulitzer Center has backed impactful health investigations such as:
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“Slashed by Trump, This Cutting-Edge HIV Vaccine Has a New Path” – NPR
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Asia’s Timor-Leste Nation Copes With End of USAID – The New York Times & The Lancet
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The Children Left Behind in Global Health Cuts – Science Magazine
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Cuts and Consequences: The End of USAID – PBS NewsHour
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US Funding Cuts Imperil Global Efforts To Eliminate Cervical Cancer – CNN
These projects demonstrate the Center’s commitment to funding journalism that drives awareness, accountability, and global impact.
How to Apply
Applicants can review frequently asked questions and submit grant application form.
If you are a journalist covering health, development, or global policy—and especially if you report from Africa or other regions heavily impacted by aid cuts—this is a timely opportunity to bring critical stories to U.S. audiences with the support of a respected global journalism finder.
For more information on grant opportunities, Visit Here.
