Civic Science Media Collaborations Program

The Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University has announced the second open call for its Civic Science Media Collaborations Program, supported by the Rita Allen Foundation. This funding opportunity aims to accelerate collaborations between scientists, media makers, and local communities across the United States. The program is designed to foster a culture of civic science where diverse communities can actively participate in scientific discourse and decision-making processes. It builds upon prior research funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and led by Dr. Sarah Stonbely, which demonstrated increased willingness among journalists to collaborate with civil society organizations to enhance impact on critical societal issues. Civic science media is defined as content created through intentional collaboration between journalists, scientists, and community members to address shared concerns. The goal is to inform and empower communities on scientific topics such as climate change, public health, and artificial intelligence. The program encourages applicants to familiarize themselves with the Rita Allen Foundation’s recent report on civic science media, which provides insights and examples of effective initiatives. A webinar to discuss the report and funding opportunity will be held on June 25, 2025. The program offers up to ten awards of $15,000 each for short-term pilot projects. These projects should foster ongoing, multidirectional dialogue between media organizations, scientists, and local communities; incorporate direct community participation in both scientific and media processes; and enhance science literacy by making complex topics more accessible. Priority focus areas include artificial intelligence, climate science, and neuroscience. Awards are not intended to fund long-term partnerships but to support pilot efforts that can evolve into sustainable collaborations. Eligibility is limited to United States-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or those with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor. Applicants must form a partnership that includes at least one science organization and one media organization, sharing work equitably. Freelancers may participate if affiliated with an eligible organization. The funding may cover personnel time, project materials, equipment, production and editing costs, and audience participation incentives. Funds may not be used for lobbying activities. The application window opens on June 2, 2025, and closes at 11:59 p.m. PT on August 31, 2025. Applicants will be notified of their status by September 30, 2025, with funds disbursed shortly thereafter. Projects will begin on November 1, 2025, and will run for 9-12 months for existing partnerships or up to 15 months for new collaborations. Required paperwork includes a project budget, a properly completed W-9, and a supplier information form provided by Montclair State University. Applications will be evaluated by a review committee based on collaboration quality, inclusion of both science and media partners, engagement components, community relevance, communication effectiveness, impact assessment, alignment with priority topics, and budget credibility. Selected awardees must complete pre-project and post-project surveys, submit a final report, and may be interviewed for a public report on the program. Interested applicants can contact Catherine Devine at [email protected] for questions, guidance, or collaboration facilitation.

Review the Rita Allen Foundation civic science media report. Attend the informational webinar. Clarify partnership roles and plan for robust community engagement.