About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The CTRL+J Research Hub 2026 is inviting applications from researchers across the Global South whose work explores the intersection of journalism, technology, and public policy.
The initiative provides a platform for researchers to develop new insights, explore emerging issues affecting journalism and information ecosystems, and strengthen collaboration with researchers working across different countries and regions.
The Research Hub is particularly relevant to researchers examining how technological developments are transforming journalism, influencing public policy, reshaping information ecosystems, and creating new opportunities and challenges for public-interest journalism.
Who Is the Programme For?
The CTRL+J Research Hub is designed for researchers from the Global South working across or between the following areas:
Journalism
Technology
Public policy
Researchers from different disciplines may be considered where their work connects these areas. The programme also encourages researchers to engage with peers working on related questions in other Global South contexts.
Research Areas
The Research Hub supports research exploring contemporary issues at the intersection of journalism, technology, and public policy. Areas of interest may include:
The impact of emerging technologies on journalism
Digital transformation within news organisations
Technology regulation and public policy
Changing information ecosystems
Media innovation
Technology and public-interest journalism
The initiative seeks to support research that contributes to a deeper understanding of these developments, particularly from perspectives rooted in the Global South.
International Research Collaboration
A central aim of the CTRL+J Research Hub is to strengthen international collaboration among Global South researchers.
By connecting researchers across geographical and institutional boundaries, the initiative provides opportunities to exchange ideas, develop professional connections, and contribute to wider conversations surrounding journalism, technology, and public policy.
Application Deadline
30 September 2026
Applications for the current CTRL+J Research Hub programme are open. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline and ensure that their research interests clearly align with the programme's focus.
How to Apply
Interested researchers should complete the official CTRL+J Research Hub application form and provide the information requested.
Applicants should clearly demonstrate how their research background and interests connect with the Hub's focus on journalism, technology, and public policy.
CTRL+J Microgrants
CTRL+J also lists CTRL+J Microgrants, a separate opportunity providing US$1,000–US$5,000 for small convenings at the intersection of journalism and technology.
The microgrants are supported by Luminate and operate on a rolling basis, subject to available funding. They may be relevant to organisations or groups planning small convenings focused on journalism and technology.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The intersection of journalism, technology, and public policy is creating important areas for research and international dialogue. The CTRL+J Research Hub offers researchers an opportunity to contribute perspectives from the Global South to broader conversations surrounding these interconnected fields.
Researchers interested in the programme should carefully review the official application information and form for the complete requirements and application criteria before submitting their applications.
Final Reminder
Applications for the CTRL+J Research Hub 2026 are currently open to researchers from the Global South working at the intersection of journalism, technology, and public policy.
Application deadline: 30 September 2026.
How to apply