If you’re a woman or non-binary journalist in the U.S. from a background that isn’t often represented in media, there’s a great chance to support your work. The Lauren Brown Fellowship 2025 by the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) is now open for applications.
This fellowship gives you funding to either work on a journalism project or improve your skills through training or mentorship. It’s meant for journalists who want to tell untold stories or work on ideas that often don’t get enough attention in mainstream media.
Named in memory of Lauren Alix Brown, a respected editor at Quartz Media who passed away in 2019, the fellowship carries on her mission of supporting fresh voices in journalism. In 2025, the program is expanding access — it’s now open to any U.S.-based woman or non-binary journalist from an underrepresented group, not just past Gwen Ifill Fellows.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow in your career, this fellowship can help bring your ideas to life. You’ll get up to $2,000 to support your reporting or career development.
Quick Summary – IWMF Lauren Brown Fellowship 2025
| Category | Details |
| Organization | International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) |
| Fellowship Name | Lauren Brown Fellowship 2025 |
| Location | United States (U.S.-based journalists only) |
| Funding Provided | Up to $2,000 |
| Eligible Applicants | Women and non-binary journalists from underrepresented backgrounds |
| Focus Areas | Reporting projects or professional development |
| Deadline | July 20, 2025 |
| Application Fee | None |
What Is the Lauren Brown Fellowship?
The IWMF Lauren Brown Fellowship is a special funding program for women and non-binary journalists based in the U.S.
It aims to support meaningful journalism, especially projects that focus on overlooked issues or challenge common media narratives.
This fellowship is more than just money—it’s a way to amplify voices that often go unheard. It also encourages journalists to grow in their careers by funding training, mentorship, or other professional development opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the 2025 Lauren Brown Fellowship, you must meet the following requirements:
- Identify as a woman or non-binary individual.
- Be based in the United States.
- Come from an underrepresented background in media.
- Be working on a journalism project or looking for career development opportunities like training, workshops, or mentorship.
- Be ready to compete through a competitive application process.
- Note: This fellowship was once only for Gwen Ifill Fellows, but is now open to all qualifying applicants starting in 2025.
What Are the Benefits?
Here’s what you’ll receive if selected:
- Up to $2,000 in grant funding to support your project or development.
- A chance to work on stories or topics that are underreported or often ignored by mainstream media.
- Skill-building and leadership opportunities.
- An opportunity to continue the legacy of Lauren Brown by contributing to meaningful, thoughtful journalism.
This support could help you attend a training session, fund a field reporting trip, or complete a passion project you’ve been waiting to pursue.
How to Apply
Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for the IWMF Lauren Brown Fellowship 2025:
- Visit the official IWMF application portal.
- Create an account or sign in to your existing profile.
- Complete the application form carefully.
- Upload any required documents such as a proposal, budget, or samples of work (as instructed).
- Double-check everything before submitting.
- Submit your application by July 20, 2025.
For more details, visit official website here.
FAQs
Who is eligible for this fellowship?
Any U.S.-based woman or non-binary journalist from an underrepresented background in media.
Can I apply if I’m a student or early-career journalist?
Yes! There are no restrictions based on experience level, as long as you meet the basic eligibility.
What can the funding be used for?
The grant can be used for reporting projects or professional development (like training or mentorship programs).
Is there an application fee?
No, the application is completely free.
Can I apply if I’ve received a different IWMF grant before?
Yes, you can apply as long as you’re not currently receiving support from a conflicting IWMF program.
What types of projects are preferred?
Projects that focus on underreported issues, offer new perspectives, or support diverse storytelling are encouraged.
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