Applications Open for 2026 CJF Black Journalism Fellowships

The Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Black Journalism Fellowships. The program offers paid, six-month placements for early-career Black journalists at major Canadian newsrooms. Applications are due by January 23, 2026.

This initiative directly addresses the need for greater diversity in news media. It aims to amplify Black voices and improve coverage of Black communities across the country. The fellowships are a significant investment in cultivating the next generation of media leaders.

Fellowship Placements and Financial Support

Selected fellows will be hosted by prestigious partner organizations. These include CBC/Radio-Canada, The Globe and Mail, and CTV News. Another placement is available at the Institute for Journalism and the Black Press at the University of Toronto.

Each fellow receives a substantial stipend of $35,000 for the six-month term. This financial support is paid in monthly installments. It allows journalists to focus fully on their professional development and impactful storytelling.

The experience is designed to be immersive and career-defining. Fellows work directly within the newsrooms of leading national media outlets. According to program guidelines, all placements will be conducted in person.

Eligibility and Program Impact

The fellowships target Black journalists in the early stages of their careers. Applicants must be based in Canada and have one to five years of professional experience. This focus ensures the support reaches those who can benefit most from this unique opportunity.

The program addresses a well-documented gap in newsroom representation. By providing this pathway, the CJF and its partners aim to enrich Canadian journalism. Diverse perspectives lead to more accurate and comprehensive news coverage for all audiences.

Fellows are responsible for securing their own accommodation in the host city. The 2026 cohort will begin their fellowships in September 2025. Their work will conclude in February of the following year.

The 2026 CJF Black Journalism Fellowships represent a crucial pipeline for Black media talent in Canada. This program provides essential resources and access to aspiring journalists. Its continued success is vital for a more representative and trustworthy news landscape.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Who is eligible for the CJF Black Journalism Fellowship?

The fellowship is open to early-career Black journalists. Applicants must be based in Canada and have between one and five years of professional experience.

Q2: What is the financial benefit for selected fellows?

Each fellow receives a stipend of $35,000 for the six-month program. This amount is paid in monthly installments to support them during their placement.

Q3: Which news organizations are hosting fellows?

Host organizations include CBC/Radio-Canada, The Globe and Mail, and CTV News. A fellowship is also available at the Institute for Journalism and the Black Press at the University of Toronto.

Q4: When is the application deadline for the 2026 fellowships?

All applications must be submitted by January 23, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The program itself begins in September 2025.

Q5: Are these fellowships remote or in-person?

The fellowships are designed as in-person placements. Selected fellows will be required to work from the physical newsroom of their host organization.

Q6: What is the main goal of these fellowships?

The primary goal is to amplify Black voices in Canadian media. The program seeks to improve news coverage of Black communities and support future Black media leaders.