Local Journalism Funding Program Berlin (mabb)

The Local Journalism Berlin Funding Program of the Media Authority Berlin-Brandenburg (mabb) aims to increase the diversity and depth of local journalistic reporting in the Berlin districts. With a clear focus on audio and audiovisual formats, new, thematically and temporally defined projects are supported that address current events on site and serve democratic participation. The mabb provides state funds for this purpose and acts as an independent awarding body to ensure a transparent and targeted distribution of grants. Through the funding, a sustainable media landscape is to be established in neighborhoods and quarters that continuously informs citizens and strengthens societal discourse at the local level.

Eligible to apply are broadcasters, telemedia providers, as well as provider consortia based or operating in Berlin, who have not yet started their project. Only projects with a clear local reference and innovative audio or audiovisual storytelling formats are funded. In addition to creative formats from podcasts, radio, or video journalism, particular emphasis is placed on conceptual clarity and temporal limitation. The program is aimed at companies and non-profit organizations planning and implementing new journalistic projects. By providing financial resources, necessary resources for editorial teams, technical equipment, and production costs are covered to build a strong local media presence in Berlin districts that have been underserved until now.