Atlanta’s environmentally minded Gen Zers can apply this month for grants of up to $5,000 that would help fund projects targeting sustainability, clean energy and climate resilience.
Eligible projects range from public awareness campaigns and policy advocacy to reforestation or urban farming. Applicants must provide a brief project description and proposal, along with an estimated budget and a statement explaining how the initiative aligns with Atlanta’s climate goals.
Residents between the ages of 15 and 24 can submit through July 25. The grants will be taken from a $50,000 pool.
“This is an opportunity to foster the next generation of climate leaders while advancing our efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient Atlanta,” Mayor Andre Dickens said.
The global fund, launched by Bloomberg Philanthropies this spring, supports 100 cities across 38 countries. Other participating locations include Bristol, United Kingdom; Flint, Michigan; Santiago, Chile and Zanzibar, Tanzania. Cities that allocate the initial $50,000 within six months will receive an additional $100,000 to support youth-driven projects.
The Atlanta-based nonprofit 21st Century Leaders partnered with the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability and Resilience on the program.
“There’s no age requirement for leadership and we love that the Mayor’s office is investing in the city with this same mindset,” said Kate Hewitt, 21st Century Leaders executive director. “When youth are provided access and opportunity, incredible things happen.”
Notably, Dickens aims for the city to reach 100% clean energy by 2035. City Council created a $500,000 Atlanta Community Energy Fund earlier this year.
All individual grants must be spent by Dec. 31, with a final report submitted by Jan. 31, 2025.
