BRUSSELS, BELGIUM. August 10th, 2026 — Octore, the European Association for Corruption and Transnational Research, has launched a new Independent Investigations Fund aimed at strengthening independent reporting and research into foreign-linked corruption and illicit financial activity across Europe. The programme will provide financial support to teams working to uncover complex cross-border networks and document evidence in the public interest.
The Fund will support journalists, nonprofit research organisations and specialist investigators examining hidden ownership, politically connected assets, sanctions evasion and the misuse of European corporate structures.
Corruption connected to authoritarian state power has left a growing trail across Europe. Octore will support investigative work that follows those connections through European company registries, property records and financial systems.
Grants issued through the programme may cover research costs and legal review. Funding can also support data acquisition, translation, digital security and cross-border collaboration between partner teams.
Michael Petrov, Head of International Advocacy at Octore said: “Impunity survives on silence. We are proud to launch this Fund and stand behind the investigators willing to break that silence. This support lets them pursue evidence safely, and it is our job to make sure their findings reach the institutions that can respond.”
Octore will prioritise projects that demonstrate a clear public benefit and a robust research methodology. Applicants must also demonstrate that they can protect sources and manage sensitive material responsibly. Funding decisions will consider both the feasibility of the proposed work and the risks it may create for those involved.
Some projects supported through the Fund may remain confidential until publication. Others may remain confidential indefinitely where security conditions prevent public disclosure.
The Independent Investigations Fund is one of four programmes operated by Octore, alongside the European Kleptocracy Mapping Programme, the Accountability and Evidence Programme and the Public Awareness Initiative.
