Application Deadline: Applications are currently open. For the August 2026 Data Journalism Bootcamp Fellowship, the deadline is June 30, 2026.
The Chauncey Bailey Fellowship 2026 offers a powerful opportunity for journalists of color to strengthen their investigative reporting skills while working on meaningful stories that serve their communities. Organized by Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE), the yearlong fellowship combines professional training, mentorship, and hands-on project development to help participants advance their journalism careers and create lasting impact.
Designed for reporters who are passionate about accountability journalism, the program provides access to some of the most respected investigative reporting resources and networks in the industry.
Established in 2019, the Chauncey Bailey Journalist of Color Investigative Reporting Fellowship was created to support and elevate diverse voices within investigative journalism. The fellowship recognizes that a broader range of experiences and perspectives is essential to producing impactful reporting that reflects the realities of different communities.
Over the course of one year, selected fellows receive intensive support from IRE through specialized training programs, mentorship opportunities, and access to valuable data services. Fellows are expected to develop and complete an investigative reporting project that addresses issues affecting their communities while benefiting from guidance provided by experienced investigative journalists.
Participants attend an IRE Data Journalism Bootcamp, the NICAR Conference, and the IRE Conference, gaining exposure to advanced reporting techniques, data analysis tools, and industry best practices. In addition, fellows build relationships with a mentor network that provides ongoing advice, feedback, and professional support throughout the fellowship period.
The experience is designed not only to improve investigative reporting skills but also to help journalists expand their professional networks, strengthen leadership capabilities, and position themselves for long-term success in the field.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be a journalist of color interested in investigative reporting.
- Produce work for a U.S.-based audience.
- Have at least three years of post-college professional experience.
- Be employed by a supportive news organization or work as an independent journalist.
- Propose a well-developed investigative project that would benefit from training and mentorship.
- Be able to commit to participating in fellowship activities throughout the year.
- Obtain organizational support if employed by a newsroom.
Students are not eligible for the fellowship.
Required application materials include:
- Resume or LinkedIn profile.
- Links to two samples of investigative work.
- Description of the investigative project to be completed during the fellowship.
- Letter of support or recommendation from a supervisor, editor, or newsroom management. Independent journalists must provide a recommendation letter.
You may also like: Marshall Scholarship 2027 for American Students (Fully Funded)
Benefits
Selected fellows receive access to a wide range of professional development opportunities, including:
- Participation in an IRE Data Journalism Bootcamp.
- Attendance at the NICAR Conference.
- Attendance at the IRE Conference.
- One year of mentorship from experienced investigative journalists.
- Access to IRE data services and reporting support.
- Professional networking opportunities.
- Guidance on producing a high-impact investigative reporting project.
- Increased visibility within the investigative journalism community.
For journalists seeking to transition into deeper investigative work or strengthen their data-reporting skills, the fellowship can be a significant career-building opportunity.
Application
Applications are reviewed based on professional experience, investigative potential, commitment to public-service journalism, and the strength of the proposed project.
Candidates should clearly demonstrate how the fellowship’s training and mentorship will help them complete an impactful investigation. Strong applications typically include a compelling project idea, evidence of previous reporting experience, and support from an employer or professional reference.
Successful fellows will work closely with mentors, participate in training events, and regularly report on the progress of their investigative projects.
For more details, visit Chauncey Bailey Fellowship.
