How to freelance for AlgorithmWatch

AlgorithmWatch is an advocacy organization that also carries out research and investigations to shed light on automated systems. We always welcome contributions from outside journalists. Here's what you need to know before you freelance for AlgorithmWatch.

What we’re looking for

What we’re not looking for

  • Interviews (unless it’s Mark Zuckerberg or Olaf Scholz).
  • Analyses and hot takes.
  • Coverage of academic research, unless it fits what we’re looking for.
  • Topics that have been thoroughly covered in English-language outlets, such as Clearview AI or how Facebook can be used to spread lies.
  • Stories about purely technical systems that do not mention their social impact.

How to pitch a story

  • Send us a synopsis (working title and a short paragraph with your methodology) at kayser-bril@algorithmwatch.org
  • We’ll discuss the deadline and the angle and agree on the precise terms.
  • Upon delivery, we will ask questions and edit the piece with you. We never publish a story as-is, and all edits are made with the goal of improving your work.

How much we pay

  • 250€ gross for a story that mostly involves summarizing public information, which is roughly 3,000 characters in length.
  • 500€ gross for a story that involves new reporting, which is roughly 5,000 characters in length.
  • The amount is paid after the journalist sends us an invoice or equivalent and includes all taxes.
  • We do not pay for extra costs (travel, gear etc.) but are willing to support you in applying to small grants that could finance them.

Other questions

  • Do I need to have a press card to pitch? No.
  • Can I write in a language other than English? Yes, in German.
  • Do I have to be a native English speaker? No. We will edit your piece into proper English. Any level of English above and including B2 is fine.