Grant Opportunity

Support is available for both new initiatives and ongoing efforts that require additional resources. Funding may be applied toward a variety of needs, including educational programs, certifications, training sessions, workshops, or the acquisition of essential tools and equipment. All proposed projects must be designed for implementation within a collective or community environment and should reflect a community-centered approach—focusing on local needs, impacts, and solutions developed by and for the community.

Applications will be evaluated on their individual strengths, and funding decisions will be made through a panel review process, which may also include interviews if necessary. Those who have previously applied, including alumni of the Young Black Climate Leaders program, are welcome to submit a new application. However, individuals currently participating in the YBCL or YCLC cohorts are not eligible, as their training and activities are already integrated into the program’s structure.

**Eligibility and Participation Requirements**

To qualify, applicants must self-identify as Black, African, Afro-Latinx, Afro-Indigenous, Indigenous, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI), Latine, Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA), or as a Person of Color. They must also reside and carry out their project within the United States or its territories, including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Eligible applicants should be between 18 and 28 years old. Those turning 18 by January 1, 2026, or 29 during the year 2026, still qualify. Shortlisted candidates must also be available for a potential Zoom interview, scheduled between September 10 and 19, 2025.

Funding recipients must agree to the following commitments:

* Sign a funding agreement and share a project reflection upon completion. This reflection may take creative forms such as videos, songs, blog posts, zines, artwork, interviews, or photojournalism.
* Participate in all program evaluations and surveys.
* Attend at least eight virtual learning and training sessions throughout the year (approximately three hours per month).
* Join the virtual orientation session scheduled for Thursday, January 22, 2026.
* Participate in a 3–4 day in-person gathering taking place between February 2 and February 6, 2026. Travel costs will be covered, and strict health and safety measures—including COVID testing, masking, and sanitization—will be enforced.
* Fully engage in the program for its entire duration, from January to December 2026.