The Chicago Reporter
About The Chicago Reporter
Since 1972, The Chicago Reporter has served as the “conscience of Chicago,” investigating race, poverty, and social inequality with fearless, independent journalism. Our investigations have sparked policy changes, led to multi-billion dollar settlements, and exposed systemic inequalities affecting communities across Chicago and beyond. We continue our founder John A. McDermott’s mission to “tell it like it is” through rigorous investigative reporting that speaks truth to power.
What We’re Seeking
The Chicago Reporter is seeking experienced freelance investigative journalists to contribute to our mission of exposing injustice and driving meaningful reform. We’re looking for reporters who can deliver investigations that are revelatory or substantially advance understanding of critical issues affecting Chicago’s communities, particularly communities of color and those experiencing economic hardship.
Investigation Criteria
Successful proposals should demonstrate investigations that:
- Have clear potential for impact: Your investigation should identify problems, responsible parties, and pathways for change, with the potential to trigger needed reforms
- Show demonstrable harm: The investigation must clearly illustrate how the issue causes real harm to individuals or communities
- Address broader relevance: While investigations may be rooted in specific Chicago neighborhoods or focus on particular individuals, they should illuminate issues of wider significance
- Present a clear hypothesis: The strongest proposals are based on substantial preliminary reporting—you should know something problematic is happening, not merely suspect it
- Focus on our core coverage areas: Housing and economic development, criminal justice reform, education equity, environmental justice, healthcare disparities, municipal government accountability, and community organizing
What Your Proposal Should Include
Investigation Overview:
- Detailed description of your proposed investigation topic
- Specific anecdotes, data, and documents you have already gathered
- Clear explanation of what you expect to find and potential accountability stories
- Description of the broader impact and reform potential
Methodology and Resources:
- Detailed breakdown of investigation requirements: data analysis, travel, public records requests, specialized expertise needed
- Documentation of data, documents, and source relationships you already possess
- Timeline and scope of work anticipated
Your Qualifications:
- Explanation of why you are uniquely positioned to conduct this investigation
- Relevant experience, expertise, and community connections
- Previous investigative work and its impact
Compensation and Terms
For accepted proposals and published articles, The Chicago Reporter offers competitive freelance rates. Freelancers work as independent contractors and are responsible for applicable tax obligations.
Our Commitment to Diversity
The Chicago Reporter is dedicated to building a newsroom that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to diversity and creating an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages. We especially encourage applications from members of traditionally underrepresented communities, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. We are an equal opportunity organization and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind.
Application Process
We welcome applications from journalists who may not fit traditional molds but bring important skills and perspectives to investigative journalism. If you have valuable experience or insights that could strengthen our mission, we encourage you to apply.
We review applications on a rolling basis and aim to notify candidates about their proposals within four weeks of submission.
How to Apply
Submit your investigative proposal and qualifications through our application form:
Apply Here: Chicago Reporter Freelance Investigation Proposal
Questions?
Please submit all applications through the form above—no phone calls, please.
The Chicago Reporter is housed at the Community Renewal Society, a faith-based social justice organization, and has been investigating issues of race, poverty, and inequality in Chicago for over 50 years. Our work continues to drive policy changes and hold powerful institutions accountable to the communities they serve.