Editorial Note — Soraya Alcalá
Strengthening health journalism requires more than interest — it demands resources, rigor, and a commitment to evidence‑based reporting. These health reporting grants are an opportunity for journalists who understand the responsibility of informing communities with accuracy and depth. As the deadline approaches, the value of stories grounded in public health becomes even more urgent.
© Soraya Alcalá · Original Editorial Note
Final day for journalists to apply for this year’s health reporting grants supporting impactful coverage
Tomorrow is the final deadline to apply for the health reporting grants, a program designed to support journalists producing impactful, evidence‑based stories that strengthen public understanding of health issues.
The Impact Fund for Reporting on Equity in Health and Health Care supports ambitious investigative and explanatory projects on inequities in health care and the practice of medicine.
Journalists play a critical role in uncovering the systemic and structural forces that shape health and well-being for individuals, families, and communities. This Fund supports ambitious journalism that exposes chronic inequities in public health and health care systems and identifies pathways for change. From maternal health deserts and rural hospital closures to changing access to reproductive health care and vaccines, we support reporting that brings a strong health equity lens to the most urgent health stories of the day. We are especially interested in projects that investigate the barriers to high-quality care and the policies and conditions in health systems that perpetuate unequal outcomes.
Grantees receive:
• A $2,000-$10,000 grant to help with reporting costs
• Five months of professional mentorship from a veteran journalist
• Monthly online development and brainstorming sessions with other reporters in their class
• Four webinars devoted to equity in health and health care
Applications are due May 12, 2026
LEARN MORE + APPLY
«The Impact Fund and Center gave me the space, time, and resources to pursue a story I’ve wanted to tell since becoming a mother in 2019. It allowed me to focus on an often-overlooked demographic — Muslim women and their perinatal experiences. Through the program, I learned how to conduct listening tours, received guidance on filing FOIAs, and developed a deeper understanding of participatory research by launching a national survey.
I would highly recommend colleagues apply, especially those looking to build a strong professional network and receive some direction … I was matched with an exceptional mentor with whom I still stay in touch and turn to for guidance.
This opportunity also served as a meaningful stepping stone to other projects.»
— Tasmiha Kahn, 2023 Impact Fund Grantee
and freelance reporter
