MC-Guide
Content Writing
How Can You Earn Money Writing For “Fullerproject.org” Website
This guide shows you, step by step, how a beginner can learn to pitch and sell stories to Fullerproject.org.
You will learn what Fullerproject.org wants, how to test your idea, how to write a pitch, and how payment roughly works. You can use this like a small SOP.
The Fuller Project
Global Newsroom · Dedicated to Women · High-Impact Journalism
How to Pitch and Earn Money Writing for The Fuller Project
A complete step-by-step guide for writers who want to move beyond basic blogging and publish impactful global stories about women. Learn how to craft a winning pitch, find the right story, and get paid for your work.
Understand the Publication Before You Write
Before you type a single word, you must understand that The Fuller Project is not a typical lifestyle blog. It is a global nonprofit newsroom. This means they don’t publish opinion essays or “top 10” lists. They publish reported journalism.
The Mission
Their goal is to report on global issues—climate change, conflict, economy, politics—strictly through the lens of women. They highlight injustices and underrepresented voices that mainstream media often misses.
The Distribution
The Fuller Project often co-publishes with giants like The New York Times, The Guardian, TIME, and Foreign Policy. Getting accepted here can launch your career onto the world stage.
What Counts as a “Fuller” Story?
To get accepted, your idea must fit their specific “beat.” They are looking for stories that raise the volume on women’s voices in areas where they are usually silenced.
| Topic Area | What They Want (Good Pitch) | What to Avoid (Bad Pitch) |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | How a specific group of women farmers in Kenya is adapting to drought using new tech. | General tips on how to recycle or “why climate change is bad.” |
| Labor & Economy | Investigation into garment workers’ safety conditions in a specific factory supply chain. | “5 ways to save money” or general career advice. |
| Health | Data-backed reporting on maternal mortality rates in a specific marginalized community. | A personal diary entry about getting the flu. |
| Conflict | How women are leading peace negotiations in a specific war-torn region. | General news updates about a war without a specific female angle. |
How to Find and Verify Your Story
You cannot just “think up” a story for The Fuller Project. You have to go out (or go online) and find it. Here is the workflow for a beginner journalist.
Identify the “Global Issue”
Start with a big headline: Is it the Climate Crisis? The War in Ukraine? The US Supreme Court? Look for major events shifting the world right now.
Find the “Missing Woman”
Ask: “Where are the women in this story?” Are they victims? Are they leaders? Are they being ignored? If the mainstream news isn’t talking about them, that is your opportunity.
Pre-Reporting (Crucial)
Before you pitch, you must do “pre-reporting.” Find 1 or 2 potential sources. Read local news reports. Ensure the story is actually true and happening now.
How to Pitch: The “Pitch Us” Guidelines
According to their submission page, your pitch needs to answer very specific questions. Editors are busy; if you don’t answer these, they will delete your email.
1. The “Nut Graph”
In one or two sentences, summarize exactly what the story is. What is the tension? Who are the characters? Why does this matter to a global audience?
2. “Why Now?”
Why must this story be published this week or this month? Is there a law passing? An anniversary? A sudden spike in data? Journalism requires timeliness.
3. Access & Sources
Prove you can write it. “I have access to…” or “I have already spoken to…” tells the editor you are serious. Mention if you have photos or video potential.
4. Estimated Length
Suggest a word count. Short features might be 800-1,200 words. Deep investigations can be 3,000+. Be realistic about what the story needs.
The Perfect Pitch Email Structure
Use this template structure to increase your chances of getting a reply. Keep it under 400 words total.
Dear [Editor Name or “Fuller Project Editors”],
// The Lede (The Hook)
In the rural village of X, women are [doing specific action] because of [specific problem]. But unlike [mainstream narrative], they are discovering that [surprising twist/angle].
// The Nut Graph (The “So What”)
I would like to propose a [Word Count] feature for The Fuller Project exploring [Core Topic]. This story is vital right now because [Time Element/Recent Event]. It highlights the intersection of [Topic A] and [Topic B] through the eyes of the women most affected.
// Your Access
I have initial access to [Source A] and [Source B]. I can also provide [photos/data].
// Why You?
I am a freelance journalist based in [Location]. My work has appeared in [Link 1] and [Link 2].
Thank you for your time,
[Your Name]
[Link to Portfolio]
Money & Payment Expectations
The Fuller Project is a professional organization. They respect writers and pay fairly. While rates vary by project scope, grant funding, and length, here is what you need to know about the business side.
- Competitive Rates: They often pay standard journalistic rates (historically ranges have been reported from $0.50/word to $1.00/word depending on complexity, but this varies significantly). Always ask for the rate if your pitch is accepted.
- Kill Fees: Professional outlets usually offer a “kill fee” (e.g., 25-50% of the agreed fee) if they commission a story but later decide not to run it through no fault of your own.
- Invoicing: You will likely need to submit a W9 (US) or W8-BEN (International) tax form. You are working as an independent contractor.
Final Checklist Before You Send
Use this checklist to ensure you look like a pro, even if it’s your first time.
Ready to Pitch?
Head over to their official submission page and send your story.
Visit Fuller Project Pitch Page →