New Orleans Youth Climate Action Fund

The New Orleans Youth Climate Action Fund provides microgrants to engage youth aged 15 to 24 in designing, implementing, and overseeing climate-focused projects. The program aims to support urgent climate solutions, ranging from tree planting to policy advocacy, by empowering young people to take leadership roles in their communities. The microgrants are intended to align with the city's climate priorities and action plan, ensuring a broad, diverse range of funded projects.

Eligible applicants include youth-led and youth-serving organizations that are legally incorporated and have clear charitable goals. Organizations must have registered bank accounts in the organization's name. Other organizations, such as city agencies, community organizations, and religious groups, may serve as sponsors for youth-led initiatives. Youth-led projects must consist of at least three individuals aged 15-24 who actively participate in decision-making and project oversight.

Microgrant-funded projects must meet specific criteria. Each project must be led and implemented by youth, align with city climate priorities, and be distinct from other funded projects. Each grant must be allocated to a different initiative, ensuring diversity in local climate action. No more than three microgrants may be awarded to the same grantee organization, and all projects must be completed by October 31, 2025. Additionally, no more than 50% of the project budget can be allocated to equipment and capital investment.

Eligible microgrant expenses include project materials and supplies, costs for organizing events and workshops, permit fees, ground travel expenses for youth participants, promotional materials, and reasonable fees for training and mentorship. Funds can also be used for sponsorship costs when an organization manages funds on behalf of a youth-led initiative. However, microgrants cannot be used for salaries, rent, utilities, scholarships, political campaigns, or capital campaigns.

Applications for Round 2 of the microgrant program open on February 17, 2025, and are due by March 17, 2025. The application process is managed by the city unit overseeing the Youth Climate Action Fund program, which also evaluates microgrant applications. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit proposals through the online application portal.