How to secure fellowships and grants easily, by Goodness Chibunna

When I started applying for fellowships, I assumed my work would speak for itself. Strong portfolio? Check. Years of experience? Check. But after a string of rejections, I realised something: being qualified isn’t enough — you have to prove it in a way that funders can’t ignore.

Fellowships aren’t just about finding the “best” candidates. They’re about finding the right fit — people whose vision, experience, and goals align with what the programme offers.

So, what makes the difference between another rejection email and an acceptance letter? It’s often the little things most applicants overlook.

For starters, many journalists assume that their work speaks for itself. They list achievements, awards, and years of experience, expecting funders to connect the dots. But here’s the truth: if you don’t show why your work matters, no one will piece it together for you.

Instead of saying, “I have 10 years of experience in investigative reporting”, explain the impact of your work. Did your reporting lead to policy changes? Did it expose wrongdoing? Did it shape public conversations? Funders want to see results, not just a list of what you’ve done.

Another mistake? Rushing applications. Many people start working on them days before the deadline, leaving no room for proper editing or feedback. But funders are not just looking for good ideas — they are looking for people who can pay attention to detail and follow instructions. A rushed application, full of errors or missing information, raises red flags.

A small but powerful step that many overlook is connecting with past fellows and grantees. These are people who have successfully gone through the process, and their insights can help you avoid common mistakes. Some even share their application strategies publicly — take advantage of that. Akintunde O. Babatunde does this for Chevening and a host of others.

And here’s something that changed the game for me: getting feedback before submitting. Even the best applications can improve with a second opinion. A fresh set of eyes can help you spot weak spots, unclear responses, or areas where more detail is needed.

At the end of the day, securing fellowships and grants is not just about qualifications. It’s about clear communication, preparation, and making funders see why your story idea deserves support.