EVANSTON, IL — Evanston will join Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund, a program Mayor Daniel Biss said will support young residents ages 15 to 24 as they design and deliver projects tied to the city’s climate priorities.
The city announced the program will include $50,000 in direct project funding and technical support from Bloomberg Philanthropies and city staff.
According to the city, selected proposals will receive grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with at least eight projects funded. Depending on project size and scope, up to 50 projects could receive funding.
The city said youth-led proposals may focus on creating or improving public spaces, climate resilience and environmental sustainability, disaster preparedness and mitigation, infrastructure improvements, and community-building initiatives.
City staff will assist selected participants with project planning, coordination and implementation, according to the announcement. The city also said it will issue an open call in July for proposals for new climate projects led by residents ages 15 to 24.
In the meantime, young residents can submit an interest form to share ideas, get more information and be notified when the application opens.
“Addressing climate change requires bold ideas and collaboration across generations. Through this program, we are putting trust in our youth to lead innovative solutions that will strengthen our City for years to come,” Biss said.
Evanston is joining 300 other cities in the Youth Climate Action Fund, according to the announcement. The city said the expanded program triples the initiative’s reach since its 2024 launch and builds on work across 34 countries, where 98 municipalities delivered projects for residents and improved trust in city hall.
“The Youth Climate Action Fund is helping city halls around the world work alongside hundreds of thousands of young people to take action on city climate challenges and improve their communities,” Patricia E. Harris, CEO of Bloomberg Philanthropies, said. “They are showing how local government can be a partner on issues youth and residents care deeply about – and they are building trust along the way. We look forward to expanding on these efforts and inspiring a new generation of civic leaders.”
The city is also seeking mentors, schools, nonprofits and local organizations to serve as Community Project Sponsors. According to the city, sponsors would act as fiscal agents for student participants by receiving, holding and administering grant funds on their behalf, while ensuring the money is distributed in line with program guidelines. Sponsors may also work with students to support project implementation.
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