Media Small Grants Program

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The Media Small Grants Program advances the U.S. Embassy mission goal of supporting a more inclusive and accountable democracy. It seeks to expand the capabilities of independent media, resulting in increased production of balanced and locally-relevant media products as well as alternative media narratives. The program also supports the development of the Kyrgyz Republic’s nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and associations working in the media-related areas. Through local innovative strategies, the program may address policy priorities such as: promoting freedom of speech and press, fostering government transparency and advocacy, and fighting corruption, informing the public regarding the work and contributions of civil society organizations to the Kyrgyz Republic’s social and economic development, and raising public awareness and participation in efforts to combat climate change and air pollution Prior activities through this program have included support for projects that: Produced quality journalism and educate journalists on best practices, including investigative work on key issues. Strengthened editorial capacity through technical improvement and expansion of editorial staff, reduce the manipulative impact of fake news through regular monitoring and verification of socially significant and resonant news, and assist Kyrgyz consumers of news to increase their awareness of factual reporting on key issues. Supported the ability of government relations officials to effectively communicate with constituents. Proposed programs should be innovative and clearly demonstrate how they will complement any ongoing programs and avoid duplicating past efforts. They may include activities that improve upon or expand existing successful projects. Applicants should pay close attention to the Public Affairs Section’s project goal and target audiences when developing their proposals. Project Goal: Strengthen the media environment in the Kyrgyz Republic by increasing journalistic professionalism and sustainability of independent media organizations. Project Audience(s): Media entities, both traditional and online media; Media managers and professionals; University students specializing in journalism; Social media influencers who are committed to engaging on social issues. Project Objectives (Project proposals may address one or more of these objectives, or other objectives within the above policy priorities. While these numbers are suggestions, grantees may select different targets as they see fit.) Within 12 months : Increase awareness of the achievements of civil society organizations in fields such as health, education, job creation, and women’s empowerment by reaching an audience of at least 2 million Kyrgyz speakers with YouTube content Increase the capacity of 30 journalism students and local community activists through practical journalism training in order to strengthen the capacity of future news professionals and help normal citizens find ways to effectively make their voices heard. 3) Create partnerships between independent media organizations and university journalism programs and their faculty to foster professional skills development and internship opportunities. 4) Equip 60 media professionals with skills in graphic design, video editing, investigative techniques, cybersecurity, story sourcing, archival research, etc… in order to improve the quality and accessibility of information available to the public.

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