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Youth Climate Action Fund

 

The City of New Westminster, has been selected to participate in the Youth Climate Action Fund, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies.

New Westminster is one of 100 cities around the globe and one of 6 Canadian cities that will receive $50,000 USD in initial funding to spur youth-driven climate action to develop innovative projects and solutions to address climate change locally. The Youth Climate Action Fund can truly support young people to make a difference in our community and tackle pressing environmental challenges.

"Climate change is an all-hands-on-deck challenge,
and it's critical that young people — who
have the most at stake — help lead the way.” 
— Michael R. Bloomberg, UN Special Envoy on Climate
Ambition and Solutions and 108th mayor of New York City

JOIN THE MOVEMENT!

Are you between the ages of 15-24 years old? Do you want to make a difference in New Westminster? Do you have an idea to take action on climate change in your community? If so, the Youth Climate Action Fund Micro-Grant Program is for you!

This microgrant program supports youth to design, implement, and govern climate solutions, fostering a more sustainable future.

We're looking for youth-led initiatives that will address urgent climate challenges in New Westminster. All projects must fit within one or more of the following New Westminster Climate Action Plan priorities; 7 Bold Steps:

  • Carbon-Free Corporation,
  • Car-Light Community,
  • Carbon-Free Homes and Buildings,
  • Pollution-Free Vehicles,
  • Carbon-Free Energy,
  • Robust Urban Forest, and
  • People-Centred Public Realm.

PROJECT IDEAS

We will fund youth-led projects focused on sustainability and climate change that directly benefits New Westminster and that are aligned with our Climate Action Plan. Examples include school community gardens, waste collection programs, road/waterway clean-ups, renewable energy projects, tree plantings, energy efficiency projects, sustainable transportation projects, etc.  Additionally, projects could also include hosting events or organizing online or in-person activities. The list is endless! Be creative!

Click here to learn more about the City's Climate Action Plan

AWARD SIZE & ELIGIBILITY

Successful applicants will receive micro-grants ranging from $1,000 - $6,800 to fund projects.

To qualify:

  • Projects must be submitted by a youth-led group based in New Westminster that can accept grant funds
  • Members of the youth-led group must be primarily between the ages of 15-24 years old
  • The youth-led group must have formal incorporation status and a bank account in the group's name with the ability to manage funds
  • If the youth-led group is not an incorporated entity, they may partner with a fiscal agent that can accept and administer funds (e.g. School District 40, Youth Climate Corp.)

If a youth-led group needs support in being connected with an organization, they can contact the City to be matched: 

HOW TO APPLY 

Applications have re-opened with a rolling deadline. This offer will close when all funds have been allocated. 

To apply, download the application form via the button below, or pick-up a paper copy from City Hall, and send to .

(Please note the electronic signature section will not work when the PDF is opened in the web browser, it must be opened in Adobe.)

Applications are accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis. This offer will close when all funding has been allocated. We encourage applications to be submitted as early as possible. All funds must be allocated by September 20, 2024. 

Young people play a key role in leading the work to address climate change. We are excited to support youth-led projects that will combat climate issues and benefit our community through this microgrant program. For more information download the Application Guide:

important dates

  • Application open: June 1, 2024
  • Application deadline: Applications have re-opened with a rolling deadline. This offer will close when all funds have been allocated. 
  • Awardees announced: Early to mid-August/ as approved.
  • Mid-term reports due: Mid October
  • Projects completed and funding spent: December 31, 2024
  • Final reports due: January 31, 2025

contact

For more information, please contact: 

 

frequently asked questions

  • Who can apply?

    Youth between the ages of 15 and 24 who are connected to a youth-serving organization The youth-serving organization has to be able to accept grant funds. If you do not have a sponsor organization, we can help you find a community partner. Please reach out before proceeding.

  • Can one organization get more than one grant?

    Sponsor organizations can support more than one project/application, if the projects are different.


  • What is the Youth Climate Action Fund?

    It's an opportunity fueled by Bloomberg Philanthropies that allows the City of New Westminster to fund micro-grants to rapidly launch and support youth-led climate initiatives. Youth between ages 15-24 or youth serving organizations in the city can apply for funds between $1000 and $6,800 for a project to help facilitate climate action within our city.

    Click Here to check out more about BLOOMBERG Youth Climate Fund

  • What can the funds be used for in this project?

    Funds may be used to cover all project related expenses such as materials, equipment, and community outreach activities.

    The following are examples of areas that are ineligible for funds: services covered by existing city initiatives, speaker honorariums, and partisan political organizations, political candidates or fundraisers.

  • When should my project start?

    Your project should commence once you receive the funds, sometime in August or September of 2024. Project must conclude no later than December 2024. (Projects can be single events or can run the entire period of funding August – December).