Request for Proposals: Growing Roots Grant Program

The Growing Roots Grant Program provides up to USD 10,000 to new and emerging youth-led initiatives working with communities on the frontlines of climate change. The program supports advocacy, strategic dialogue, and community autonomy projects in the Global South and eligible diaspora and BIPOC communities. Applications are open until February 28, 2026, with results announced by April 15, 2026.

What is the Growing Roots Grant Program?

The Growing Roots Grant Program is a youth-focused climate justice funding initiative designed to strengthen grassroots movements addressing systemic climate challenges. It supports early-stage, community-led projects that empower frontline communities through advocacy, narrative building, and locally owned systems.

The grant prioritizes initiatives that:

• Advance climate justice and community resilience

• Address systemic inequalities linked to climate change

• Strengthen long-term community power

• Promote locally driven and sustainable solutions

Each selected group receives up to USD 10,000 plus structured mentorship, leadership coaching, and capacity-building support.

Focus Areas for 2026

The 2026 funding round emphasizes three key thematic areas:

1. Strategic Dialogue and Narrative Building

• Creating safe spaces for community dialogue in polarized contexts

• Countering climate misinformation

• Building inclusive narratives that reflect frontline realities

2. Advocacy-Oriented Initiatives

• Influencing public policy through civic engagement

• Grassroots mobilization and climate campaigns

• Promoting accountability and equitable climate governance

3. Community Autonomy Initiatives

• Developing community-owned infrastructure

• Strengthening local systems and self-governance

• Supporting long-term resilience through locally controlled resources

Grant Amount and Support

Selected initiatives receive:

• Up to USD 10,000 in financial support

• Ongoing mentorship and leadership development

• Tailored capacity-building workshops

• Communications support to amplify impact

• Coaching for sustainable growth beyond the grant period

Projects must be no older than one year at the time of application.

Who is Eligible?

The program funds 8–10 grassroots youth-led initiatives.

Geographic Eligibility

• Global South regions (including South Asia)

• Eligible diaspora communities

• BIPOC communities based in Global North countries

Applicant Criteria

• Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old

• The majority of decision-makers in the group must fall within this age range

• Initiatives do not need legal registration

• For-profit ventures are not eligible

• Projects must demonstrate a strong commitment to community-led change

Why This Grant Matters

Climate change disproportionately impacts frontline communities in the Global South and marginalized populations worldwide. Youth-led initiatives play a critical role in:

• Driving systemic change

• Building climate resilience from the ground up

• Shaping equitable climate policies

• Strengthening community ownership and autonomy

The Growing Roots Grant invests not only in projects but in long-term youth leadership and sustainable social impact.

How to Apply

Step 1: Prepare Project Information

Applicants must clearly define:

• Project objectives and expected outcomes

• Community impact and systemic relevance

• Timeline and implementation plan

• Detailed budget allocation

Step 2: Provide Group Information

Include details about:

• Team members and leadership structure

• Age verification of key decision-makers

• Connection to the frontline community

Step 3: Submit a Short Video

Applicants must submit a short video explaining:

• Their journey and motivation

• Their connection to the community

• Why their initiative matters

Step 4: Submit Application

• Applications may be submitted in English or Spanish

• Deadline: February 28, 2026

Selection Timeline

• Application Deadline: February 28, 2026

• Proposal Review: March 2026

• Final Decisions Announced: April 15, 2026

Selected grantees will begin receiving mentorship and program support shortly after announcement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting projects older than one year

• Providing unclear or unrealistic budgets

• Failing to demonstrate community-led decision-making

• Missing the required video submission

• Applying as a for-profit venture

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much funding can each group receive?
Up to USD 10,000 per selected initiative.

2. Do we need to be a registered organization?
No, legal registration is not required.

3. Are for-profit startups eligible?
No, for-profit ventures are not eligible.

4. Can diaspora groups apply?
Yes, eligible diaspora and BIPOC communities in Global North countries can apply.

5. What languages are accepted?
Applications can be submitted in English or Spanish.

6. What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be 18–35 years old, and most group decision-makers must fall within this range.

7. When will results be announced?
Final decisions will be communicated by April 15, 2026.

Conclusion

The Growing Roots Grant Program 2026 is a strategic funding opportunity for youth-led climate justice initiatives committed to systemic change and community autonomy. By combining financial support with mentorship and capacity building, the program strengthens grassroots leadership and amplifies solutions emerging from communities most affected by climate change. Youth leaders working on advocacy, dialogue, and locally owned systems are strongly encouraged to apply before February 28, 2026.