European Network of Fact-Checkers (DIGITAL-2025-BESTUSE-08-FACTCHECKERS)

Context

Aligned with the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) and the Digital Services Act, this call supports the development of infrastructure and coordination for fact-checking. It complements existing efforts by EDMO and EFCSN to counter disinformation in vulnerable regions 

Objectives

1.    Expand fact-checking capacity in under-served countries/languages.
2.    Create emergency response systems for disinformation surges.
3.    Protect fact-checkers from legal, cyber, psychological threats and harassment.
4.    Equip fact-checkers with training, tools, and expertise.
5.    Foster collaboration through peer support and network-building.
6.    Build a centralized repository of fact-checks with API & dashboard features.
7.    Explore sustainable business models for fact-checking entities 

Target Groups

• EDMC / EFCSN / IFCN-certified fact-checking organisations
• CSOs, news media, academic institutions, and commercial actors
• Consortium must include at least 1 independent fact-checking organisation 

Eligibility Criteria

• Multi-beneficiary consortium is mandatory
• Legal entities (public or private) established in EU or associated countries
• Must complement, not duplicate, EDMO’s activities 

Funding 

• Total budget: €5 million
• Funding rate: 100% for consortium; sub-grants to third parties must be co-financed at 50%
• Third-party grants: ≥60% of project’s budget; max €350 k per entity

Timeline

• Opening date: 15 April 2025
• Deadline: 2 September 2025, 17:00 CEST
• Evaluation: Sept–Oct 2025
• Grant Agreements signed: Feb 2026
• Project duration: up to 36 months (through to early 2028)