Call for Tenders: Feasibility Study on Strengthening Independent Media in Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and Armenia

Based on an assessment of the initial objectives and planned methodology, we are looking for recommendations on how to maximize the project’s impact while minimizing risks.

The study must be carried out by independent experts with technical, methodological, and practical expertise as well as regional knowledge who provide a detailed report of max. 30 pages (final report to be submitted in English by 15 November 2025). It is intended as a basis for cooperation with partners in the region, and for the common planning and implementation of the project activities. This project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and implemented in close cooperation with four media partners in Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia and Armenia.

About n-ost

n-ost is a European journalistic network. The media NGO has a focus on Eastern Europe and is committed to cross-border and multiperspective reporting. n-ost connects journalists and media, supports research and provides training: 500 correspondents, photographers and editors work from across Europe. n-ost headquarters are based in Berlin, Germany.

About the project

The project aims to stabilize 120 small and medium-sized media outlets in Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia and Armenia (30 per country) that face existential threats due to financial instability, cuts in foreign donor support, and pressure from Russian disinformation campaigns. Through innovative cooperation models, peer learning, and capacity building, the project seeks to support the necessary economic transformation of independent media.

Key activities 

1. Kick-off Phase
At the start of the project, we will bring together country coordinators – experienced professionals who understand the local media landscape – with an international jury of mentors consisting of senior media managers, editors, and innovators. This phase will set the strategic framework, define the criteria for participation, and ensure that local needs are closely linked with international expertise and guidance.

2. Hackathons
In each country, 40 representatives from 20 media outlets will participate in intensive hackathon-style workshops. These gatherings will serve as creative laboratories where participants can identify the most pressing shared challenges – from audience growth and monetization to digital security and disinformation resilience. Working in mixed teams, media outlets will co-design prototype projects that test innovative solutions for collaboration and sustainability.

3. Collaborative Projects
The most promising ideas emerging from the hackathons will receive support for further development and implementation. These may include:

• Content syndication networks to share reporting resources and expand audience reach.
  

• Shared correspondents to cover underreported regions or topics more efficiently.
  

• Joint marketing and advertising strategies to increase revenue streams.
  

• Brand partnerships or mergers that help small outlets pool resources and gain visibility.

These initiatives will demonstrate the value of cooperation over competition, enabling outlets to survive and grow together.

4. School of Media Development 
The School of Media Development will offer eight intensive training modules tailored to the needs of independent media. Topics will include:

• Modern media management and leadership practices.
  

• Strategies for organizational transformation in rapidly changing environments.
  

• Artificial intelligence in journalism – tools and ethical considerations.
  

• Audience trust and engagement methods.
  

• Innovative marketing and fundraising approaches.
  

• Data journalism techniques for impactful reporting.
  

• Collaborative journalism models that cross borders.
  

5. Peer Learning & Networking
Beyond the structured training, the project emphasizes regional and cross-border peer exchange. Through numerous meetings and the documentation of lessons learned, participants will continuously benefit from each other’s experiences. Importantly, even media outlets that are not selected for direct grants will remain part of the learning community, ensuring a wider ripple effect and stronger regional networks.

Requirements for the feasibility study

The feasibility study should provide a comprehensive contextual analysis across three interrelated levels – micro, meso, and macro – in order to capture dynamics at the level of individual actors, sectoral structures, and the broader socio-political environment. Also it should:

1. Map existing structures
Provide an overview of relevant institutions, networks, and umbrella associations connected to the project and its activities.

2. Assess the project’s approach
Analyse how the project contributes to stabilizing independent media through cooperation, using the OECD DAC criteria: relevance, coherence, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, sustainability.

3. Develop recommendations
Formulate practical suggestions for refining the project concept. These should address project design, activities, methods, intervention logic, and risk management.

Guiding questions for the study report

• What challenges, problems, and public debates can be identified in Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia and Armenia regarding the economic transformation of independent media?

• What political stances and disinformation threats shape the public discourse in both countries?

• What are the strengths, deficits, and needs of small and medium-sized media regarding financial sustainability and cooperation?

• What political, economic, or technical obstacles could hinder cooperation models between media?

• How can risks be mitigated, especially regarding resource scarcity and security of journalists?

• Who are the target groups and relevant stakeholders (micro, meso, macro levels)?

• What potential exists for intensified cross-border cooperation between the media from Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia and Armenia?

• What are the major needs regarding professional development and capacity building in the project countries?

Scope & Remuneration

The study should comprise between 20 and 30 pages and will be remunerated with 15,000 Euros including all fees and taxes. Applications from expert teams to share the individual analysis on the four project countries (but still work with an integrated analytical framework) are welcome.

Applications

In order to apply for this tender, please send your application and offer to Antonina Rybka (rybka@n-ost.org) as soon as possible, but no later than 14 September 2025, 23:59 CET.

For the full application the following documents have to be submitted by the teams:

• A detailed outline of the objectives and methods to be deployed in the feasibility study;

• A list of products, deliverables, and activities that will be provided, including timeline and specification of costs;

• A structural framework for the final report;

• Proof of independence of the evaluators, as well as their technical, organizational, methodological and other capacities, composition, roles and tasks of all those involved;

• A list of sources such as policy papers, references to other studies, prior project documents, and methodological guidelines;

• A presentation of the team members and their relevant experience for this study.

The successful applicants will be selected by 2 October 2025. We expect to receive the final study by 15 November 2025. Any questions can be directed to Antonina Rybka (rybka@n-ost.org).