Call for Applications:

The Globe and Mail Foundation Mentorship Program

With Robert Fife

The Globe and Mail Foundation is launching a six-month, project-based mentorship for emerging investigative and political journalists in Canada.

Applications are now open for the inaugural 2026–2027 mentorship cohort. The Globe and Mail Foundation will select two emerging journalists for intensive, one-on-one guidance from veteran investigative and political journalist Robert Fife. From November 2026 through April 2027, each mentee will develop a focused public-interest reporting project from pitch to publication while strengthening the practical, ethical, and professional skills needed to pursue ambitious journalism.

Application deadline: Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

About the Mentorship

For emerging journalists, sustained access to an experienced reporter or editor can be transformative. This mentorship is designed to create that connection: a trusted space for rigorous editorial discussion, practical advice, and focused support on a substantial reporting project.

  • One-on-One Mentorship: Each journalist will benefit from private virtual sessions every two weeks with Robert Fife, former Ottawa Bureau Chief of The Globe and Mail.

  • Project Incubation: Mentees bring or develop a focused, public-interest reporting project from pitch to final publication.

  • Editorial Feedback: Constructive critiques on story framing, writing style, interview techniques, and drafts.

  • Industry Navigation: Strategic career advice on liaising with major media outlets, and building a professional network.

  • Real-World Impact: Turning complex public-interest topics into deeply reported, publishable pieces.

  • Funding to support travel and research considered on a case-by-case basis, as required.

Who Should Apply

This opportunity is intended for emerging journalists who want to deepen their investigative or political reporting practice and are ready to commit to a six-month, project-based mentorship.

  • Applicants must reside in Canada.

  • Applicants must have no more than five years of reporting experience.

  • Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in investigative or political journalism.

  • Applicants who are employed by a media organization must include a letter of support from their editor.

How to apply:

Please submit the following materials:

  • Your CV, and a letter of interest of no more than 350 words.

  • Two examples of published work.

  • A brief statement describing your goals for the mentorship and the reporting project or area you hope to develop.

  • If applicable, a letter of support from your editor.

Submit your application: Send an email with the requirements to education@globeandmailfoundation.com, with “The Robert Fife Mentorship” in the subject line. Applications must be received by Sunday, October 11, 2026, 11:59 p.m. ET.

Applications will be assessed on the candidate’s demonstrated commitment to investigative or political journalism, the clarity and feasibility of their goals, the potential public value of their proposed reporting, and their readiness to benefit from sustained mentorship. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview.

The mentorship will run from November 2026 to April 2027.

About Robert Fife

Robert Fife was The Globe and Mail's Ottawa Bureau Chief. He is the former Ottawa Bureau Chief of the National Post and CTV National News and host of CTV's Question Period. Mr. Fife has won numerous awards for his investigative journalism. He broke the SNC-Lavalin affair that led to resignations of two senior cabinet ministers, a top lieutenant to the prime minister and the Clerk of the Privy Council.

Mr. Fife set the political agenda in 2012–2014 when he uncovered the Senate expense scandal that resulted in the resignation of Stephen Harper’s chief of staff Nigel Wright and significant reform of Senate expenses. In 2021 Maclean’s Magazine named Mr. Fife as one of the country’s 50 most powerful people. He is also the author of several books: A Capital Scandal: Politics, Patronage and Payoff; Why Parliament Must Be Reformed; and Kim Campbell: The Making of a Politician.