About the Program
What is a grant?
A grant is financial assistance provided by a government, organization, or foundation for a specific purpose. Unlike a loan, grants do not need to be repaid.
What is a microgrant?
A microgrant is a small grant that does not need to be repaid. Through the Tucson Youth Climate Action Fund, youth-led teams can apply for $1,000 to $5,000 to develop and implement projects that address local climate challenges while advancing Tucson Resilient Together, the City's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
The program is funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies' Youth Climate Action Fund to empower young people to lead climate solutions, foster innovation, and strengthen community engagement.
How many projects will be selected?
We expect to fund approximately eight projects, depending on available funding and the amount requested by each project ($1,000–$5,000).
Can we combine projects?
No. While a Sponsor Organization may support more than one project, each project must be unique, have its own youth leadership team, and submit a separate application. Our goal is to engage as many young people as possible.
Can I apply for or participate in more than one project?
Potentially. Each project must have its own youth leadership team and Sponsor Organization. Youth may participate in more than one project, provided each project is unique and meets all program requirements.
What if I need special accommodations, translation assistance, or help with my application?
We are committed to making our programs and services accessible to everyone. If you need accommodations, translation assistance, help with your application, or additional information, please contact Climate.Action@tucsonaz.gov.
Español
Nos comprometemos a que nuestros programas y servicios sean accesibles para todos. Si necesita adaptaciones especiales, asistencia con traducción, ayuda con su solicitud o información adicional, comuníquese con Climate.Action@tucsonaz.gov.
My friends and I have a project idea, but we don't have a Sponsor Organization. Can you help us?
Yes! If you don't already have a Sponsor Organization, we'll help connect you with eligible schools, nonprofits, community organizations, or other organizations that may be able to sponsor your project. Please contact Climate.Action@tucsonaz.gov for assistance.
I have a great idea, but I'm only one person. Can I still apply?
Projects must be led by at least two youth between the ages of 15 and 24. If you need help finding teammates or connecting with a Sponsor Organization, please contact Climate.Action@tucsonaz.gov. We'd be happy to help.
Can teams be larger than two?
Absolutely! Teams may be any size, provided they can be effectively managed during the project period and the majority of participants are between the ages of 15 and 24.
We have a team member who is outside the age range of 15–24. Can they still participate?
Yes. As long as the project's youth leadership is between the ages of 15 and 24, and the majority of team members are also between 15 and 24, additional participants outside that age range may be involved.
Who chooses the projects?
City staff will first review applications to confirm they meet the program requirements. Eligible applications will then be evaluated by an independent selection committee made up of community members and subject matter experts using the published evaluation criteria.
What if our project isn't selected?
If your project is not selected, you're welcome to contact Climate.Action@tucsonaz.gov to request general feedback on your application.
Funding Questions
I have an idea, but I don't need $1,000 to complete it. Can I still apply?
Projects must request between $1,000 and $5,000. If your project requires less funding, consider expanding its scope or impact to meet the minimum funding amount.
What is a Sponsor Organization?
A Sponsor Organization is an eligible school, nonprofit, community organization, museum, college or university, or other qualifying organization that receives the grant funds and helps provide administrative support for your project.
Sponsor Organizations help ensure funds are managed appropriately while allowing youth to lead the project.
Does my Sponsor Organization have to be a nonprofit?
No. Sponsor Organizations are not required to be nonprofits. However, they must be legally recognized organizations with a bank account in the organization's name. Grant funds cannot be distributed directly to individuals or private companies.
Schools, colleges and universities, museums, youth-serving organizations, community organizations, and religious organizations with charitable purposes may all be eligible to serve as Sponsor Organizations.
Can we use grant funds to support youth participation?
Grant funds may be used for eligible project expenses, including transportation, refreshments, and modest participation incentives such as gift cards, when appropriate and consistent with the Funding Guidelines.
Is there a limit on equipment or infrastructure costs?
Yes. Equipment and infrastructure costs may not exceed 50% of your project's total grant budget.
For Sponsor Organizations
What is a youth-led organization?
A youth-led organization is one in which young people ages 15 to 24 hold leadership roles and actively participate in decision-making, planning, and oversight.
What is a youth-serving organization?
A youth-serving organization primarily provides programs, services, or resources designed to benefit young people, even if it is led by adults.
Can our organization sponsor more than one project?
Yes. Organizations may sponsor more than one project, provided each project is unique, has its own youth leadership team, and is funded separately. Organizations may sponsor up to three projects.
What are the reporting requirements?
Reporting requirements are designed to be straightforward. Sponsor Organizations will complete a summary report describing project activities, outcomes, and how grant funds were used. Detailed receipts, invoices, and financial reports will not be required unless otherwise requested.
Can adults lead the project?
Adults, teachers, and organization staff play an important role by mentoring youth, providing guidance, and serving as the Sponsor Organization. However, project ideas should come from young people, and youth should remain the primary decision-makers throughout the project.
For Teachers and School Advisors
Our school club is already working on a project outside Tucson. Can we still apply?
Yes. As long as your project provides a clear benefit to the Tucson community, you may apply.
If your school or organization is located outside Tucson but your project will take place in Tucson, you are eligible to apply. Likewise, if your project takes place outside Tucson but is led by youth who live in or attend school in Tucson and clearly benefits the Tucson community, you may also be eligible.
Questions?
City of Tucson Climate Action Team
Email: Climate.Action@tucsonaz.gov
Phone: [PHONE]