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)
