In 2025, the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) will maintain its esteemed Media Fellowship Program, which is currently in its cycle. This program provides two Canadian journalists with up to C$10,000 each in funding for in-country research, travel, and accommodation in Asia. Since its inception in 1986, this initiative has enabled nearly 98 journalists, including notable figures such as Carol Off, John Ivison, and Chantal Hébert, to generate insightful, relationship-building journalism regarding Canada-Asia relations.. The expectation is that fellows will develop a minimum of three stories, including digital content, implement a social media strategy, and produce a 60-second video, podcast, or blog to exhibit their work.
What Is the APF Canada Media Fellowship?
This fellowship is a competitive opportunity for both seasoned and emerging Canadian journalists to spend time in Asia in order to investigate pertinent, underreported, or insightful stories. The fellowship, which is supported by an endowment from the Government of Canada, allows recipients to conduct research, report, and publish high-impact journalism on issues that are relevant to the Asia-Pacific region and have the potential to influence Canada-Asia relations.
The program has provided support to 98 fellows since its inception, including some of Canada’s most prominent correspondents, such as Chantal Hébert and Carol Off.
Fellowship Benefits:
- Providing up to C$10,000 in funding to support in-country reporting expenses, accommodation, and travel.
- The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada provides professional visibility.
- The opportunity to publish a minimum of three significant stories, including digital and multimedia formats.
- A platform for showcasing your work on the APF Canada website and social media.
- Exclusive exposure to Asia-Pacific themes in domains such as:
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Trade and economic stability
- Energy and climate solutions
- The Arctic and maritime governance
- Supply chain resilience and data governance.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must be either Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents in order to be eligible for the APF Canada Media Fellowship. They must be currently employed by, or working as freelancers for, a reputable Canadian media entity, regardless of whether they are involved in print, digital, television, radio, or multimedia platforms.
A demonstrated record of publication in Canadian news media, as well as a minimum of two years of professional journalism experience, is necessary. In addition, applicants must verify that they either have or are eligible to obtain all necessary travel and work visas for the country or countries in Asia that they intend to visit. It is crucial to mention that those who have previously received the APF Media Fellowship are required to wait a minimum of three years before reapplying.
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Programs Offered (Thematic Areas):
Journalists are encouraged to pitch compelling proposals tied to:
- Emerging Technologies and Artificial Intelligence
- Investment and Trade
- Arctic and Maritime Governance
- Solutions to Climate Change
- Energy Security and Space Research
- Economic Security and Data.
Deliverables Expected from Fellows:
- A minimum of three feature articles, at least one of which is dedicated to digital platforms.
- An experience summary in the form of a brief multimedia work, such as a blog, video, or podcast.
- The stories will be promoted through an active social media campaign.
- Evaluation of the experience in a final written report (700–1,000 words).
- Optional: Attend a presentation at the Vancouver or Toronto offices of APF Canada.
Apply: https://www.asiapacific.ca/grants/media-fellowships.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the APF Canada Media Fellowship?
It’s a competitive fellowship by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada for Canadian journalists to spend time in Asia researching and reporting stories on Canada–Asia relations. Two fellowships (~C$10,000 each) are awarded annually
Who is eligible to apply?
Canadian citizens or permanent residents
Employed (or freelancing) as a reporter, feature writer, columnist, or multimedia journalist by a Canadian media outlet
Minimum two years of accredited journalism experience and a proven publication record
Must hold or be eligible for any required travel visas for your destination(s)What themes are prioritized?
Fellowship proposals focused on timely Asia-related issues receive priority. Themes include:
Emerging technology, AI, data governance
Economic and energy security, supply chain resilience
Maritime governance and security, Arctic region
Climate solutions, trade and investment
