Youth Climate Action Fund

A group of young people participate in a tree-planting project.

Want to make Lincoln more sustainable, stronger, healthier, and more connected? The Youth Climate Action Fund offers $1,000–$5,000 microgrants for young people ages 15–24 to lead real climate projects right here in our city. Lincoln is one of 300 cities worldwide selected to participate in this exciting initiative, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies.

Focus Areas

Lincoln has chosen four priority themes from our Climate Action Plan(PDF, 15MB). Your project should address one or more of these areas — and there's plenty of room for your own creative twist.

Climate resilience

Solar energy, flood reduction, tree planting, extreme heat responses, strengthening neighborhood connections — anything that helps Lincoln weather what's ahead.

  • Example: Distribute home rain garden kits at school
  • Example: Install solar-powered lighting around community gathering spaces

Local food

Community gardens, selling locally grown food, food access for those who need it most, reducing food waste — projects that connect people to healthy, sustainable food in Lincoln.

  • Example: Build a community garden combining food growing and preservation, climate education, and community events

Waste reduction

Reducing waste and single-use plastics, composting, recycling, upcycled fashion — projects that keep materials out of the landfill and in circulation.

  • Example: Turn food waste into fertilizer pellets to reduce what goes to the landfill

Transportation

Biking, scooting, walking, transit, electric vehicles, car sharing — projects that make getting around Lincoln cleaner and easier for everyone.

  • Example: Provide free bike repairs, education, and bike donations to reduce car trips

How to Get Involved

Whether you're a young person with an idea or an organization that supports youth, here's how you can fit in:

For youth ages 15–24:
Propose and lead a project

  • Apply through a partner organization with your project idea. At least two young people must lead the project, from design through implementation.
  • Projects must address one of Lincoln's four climate themes.
  • Budgets must range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Projects must be completed by April 15, 2027.
  • City staff and partner organizations are available to support you along the way.

Don't have an organization yet? We're working with several Lincoln nonprofits and community organizations that are eager to partner with youth applicants. Reach out, and we'll help connect you.

For organizations:
Support and sponsor youth projects

Nonprofits, schools, faith-based groups, and other youth-serving organizations play a key role — mentoring participants, providing expertise, and administering grant funds.

  • Administer grant funds on behalf of youth leads
  • Offer meeting space, guidance, and resources
  • Provide technical expertise or community connections
  • Assist with tracking and measuring project outcomes

Please note that each organization may sponsor up to three projects.

Key Timeline

Mark your calendar — applications open in late August 2026.

  • August 26, 2026: Applications open. Submit your project proposal through the City's application.
  • October 7, 2026: Applications close. All project proposals must be submitted by this date.
  • November 13, 2026: Grant funds disbursed. Selected projects receive their microgrant funding and can begin implementation.
  • April 15, 2027: All projects completed. Final reports submitted to the City of Lincoln.
  • April 22, 2027 — Earth Day: Results announced. Youth achievements are celebrated publicly in Lincoln and across all 300 participating cities worldwide.

Project Details and Application

Applications for projects open August 26. Learn what types of projects are eligible, what costs are allowed, and more!

Why Get Involved?

The Youth Climate Action Fund is an opportunity to make a real difference in your community while building valuable leadership skills. Participants will lead projects that address local climate challenges, connect with the Mayor's Office, and gain experience in project planning, teamwork, and community engagement. You'll also have the chance to share your project's story, inspire others, and showcase the positive impact you're making in Lincoln. If you're passionate about the environment, want to develop new skills, or want to create long-lasting change, the Youth Climate Action Fund is for you!

Contact Us

Reach out to learn more, ask questions, or find out about upcoming information sessions and design workshops where you can develop your project idea with support from City staff.

Kim Morrow

Chief Sustainability Officer

Phone

402-441-5633

Email

kcmorrow@lincoln.ne.gov

Related Information

Youth Climate Action Fund
Bloomberg Philanthropies

City of Lincoln
Climate Action Plan(PDF, 15MB)

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