The International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) has officially opened applications for the prestigious Kari Howard Fund for Narrative Journalism 2026, an important funding opportunity designed to support compelling, impactful, and deeply human-centered storytelling from women and nonbinary journalists around the world.

This grant program honors the legacy of Kari Howard, an editor celebrated for championing stories that captured the emotional depth of everyday life while illuminating major social issues through powerful narrative journalism. The fund aims to empower journalists who are passionate about telling meaningful stories that connect audiences with real people, communities, and experiences.

For journalists seeking financial support to pursue ambitious reporting projects, this opportunity provides funding of up to $5,000 to help bring important stories to life.

About the Kari Howard Fund for Narrative Journalism

The Kari Howard Fund was established by Kari Howard’s family and friends in partnership with the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF). The initiative reflects Kari Howard’s dedication to narrative journalism that combines investigative depth with emotional resonance.

The grant supports print journalists and multimedia teams producing narrative-driven reporting projects published in English anywhere in the world.

Projects funded through this program are expected to focus on immersive storytelling, meaningful reporting, and journalism that highlights critical issues through personal and compelling narratives.

Grant Benefits

Selected applicants will receive several important benefits, including:

Grants averaging approximately $5,000
Financial support for reporting and production expenses
International recognition through the IWMF network
Opportunity to pursue impactful narrative journalism projects
Support for both independent journalists and collaborative multimedia teams
Increased visibility for underreported or deeply human-centered stories

Who Can Apply?

The opportunity is specifically designed for:

Women journalists
Nonbinary journalists
Gender nonconforming journalists

Applicants may apply as:

Freelance journalists
Staff journalists
Print journalists leading multimedia reporting teams

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Kari Howard Fund for Narrative Journalism 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Professional Experience

Applicants must have:

At least three (3) years of professional journalism experience
Journalism as their primary profession

Please note that internships do not count toward the required professional experience.

Journalism Focus

Applicants must be:

Print journalists
Or print journalists leading a multi-format or multimedia team

Any multimedia components must support and supplement the primary print journalism project.

Language Requirement

Applicants must:

Apply in English
Publish their reporting project in English

Stories may be published digitally and do not necessarily need to appear in traditional newspapers or magazines.

Editorial Support

Applicants must either:

Demonstrate proof of interest from an editor, or
Show a strong publication history in prominent media outlets

Eligible Reporting Projects

The IWMF welcomes narrative journalism projects covering important issues from anywhere in the world.

Projects may include:

Social justice reporting
Human rights stories
Investigative narratives
Community-centered storytelling
Cultural reporting
Gender-focused reporting
Political or humanitarian issues
Environmental storytelling
Longform journalism projects

The focus should be on strong storytelling that creates emotional connection while addressing important issues.

Project Timeline

Successful applicants must:

Complete all reporting and publication activities within six months of receiving the grant award

Applicants should therefore submit realistic timelines and achievable reporting plans in their proposals.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the IWMF Kari Howard Fund for Narrative Journalism 2026 is:

July 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST

Applicants are expected to receive decisions by early September 2026.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Narrative journalism remains one of the most powerful forms of storytelling in modern media. Through immersive reporting and emotionally engaging narratives, journalists can help audiences better understand complex issues affecting people worldwide.

The Kari Howard Fund continues to preserve and promote this important journalistic tradition by supporting reporters dedicated to telling stories with empathy, depth, and authenticity.

For women and nonbinary journalists looking to pursue meaningful reporting projects, this grant offers not only financial support but also recognition from one of the world’s leading organizations supporting women in media.