Kim Wall Memorial Fund

The Kim Wall Memorial Fund, administered by the International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF), is an annual grant initiative established to honor the life and work of Swedish journalist Kim Wall. Known for her fearless pursuit of underreported stories and her distinctive focus on subcultures and the “undercurrents of rebellion,” Kim's legacy is celebrated through this fund by supporting other journalists who share her adventurous and empathetic approach to storytelling. Since 2018, the fund has awarded $5,000 grants to women and nonbinary journalists who embody Kim's spirit and mission. The primary objective of the fund is to enable journalists to report on global subcultures and stories that challenge mainstream narratives. Grants are awarded to support expenses directly related to reporting projects, such as travel, logistics, insurance, visa fees, stipends, and fees for producers or translators. However, the fund does not cover equipment purchase or rental costs, nor can it be used for academic research or publications. Reporting may be conducted in any language, though strong written and verbal English skills are required for participation in the program. Eligible applicants must be individual journalists who identify as women or nonbinary and have at least one year of professional journalism experience, not including internships. Applicants may be freelance or staff journalists, and while only individuals may apply, submitted budgets may include compensation for collaborators like photographers or producers. Additionally, applicants must provide either proof of editorial interest or demonstrate a strong track record of publication in reputable media outlets. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle are open from November 3 to December 7, 2025, with a deadline of 11:59 PM EST. Applications must be submitted via the Submittable platform. The program does not support time-sensitive projects, as applications will be reviewed throughout January and February 2026, and notifications will be sent by mid-March. Final grant recipients will be announced on March 23, Kim Wall’s birthday, in a celebration of her life and the ongoing impact of her journalism. The fund is a collaborative effort between the IWMF and Kim's family and friends, designed to foster the kind of journalism Kim championed—curious, bold, and deeply human. For any questions or assistance regarding the application process, applicants are encouraged to contact Program Coordinator Divya T. at dtewari@iwmf.org.