Request for Proposals: Sustainable Paths to Media Viability

The focus areas, include reinforcing digital transformation of the news media sector, developing sustainable media business models, strengthening democratic participation through reliable information, improving citizen access to trustworthy journalism, and enhancing transparency and accountability in media ecosystems. They also include developing AI-driven media tools, recommender systems, trust indicators, metadata standards, and revenue-generating innovations that support journalistic integrity and economic sustainability.

Funding for this programme totals €12,000,000, with individual project contributions ranging from €3,500,000 to €4,000,000.

The programme aims to address the economic pressures facing news media and the growing challenges of misinformation in digital ecosystems. It focuses on ensuring that journalism remains financially viable while maintaining high professional standards such as accuracy, independence, and inclusivity. It also supports innovation in how citizens access, evaluate, and engage with news content in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

Projects are expected to develop and test new tools and models such as trust-based content indicators, AI-enabled media services, and advanced recommender systems that prioritize verified journalism. They also aim to improve user engagement strategies, enhance advertising and subscription models, and strengthen metadata and audience measurement systems to support media sustainability.

Further emphasis is placed on fostering pan-European platforms, interoperable standards, and collaborative innovation across the media industry. The initiative also supports the integration of journalistic principles into algorithms and digital systems to ensure that citizens receive diverse, reliable, and high-quality information.

For more information, visit European Commission.