BELLEVUE, Wash. - Young people in Bellevue can now apply for grants of up to $5,000 to bring their ideas for local climate action to life, according to the City of Bellevue.
The city's Youth Climate Action Fund will provide $50,000 in grants for youth-led projects that address climate change and build sustainability in Bellevue, the city said in a news release. The program is run in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, and Bellevue is one of 300 cities worldwide taking part. Funding will be provided through nonprofits that manage the grant money on behalf of the youth-led projects.
"This gives Bellevue's young people a real chance to turn an idea into action in their own community," said Mayor Mo Malakoutian. "Give young people some trust and a little funding, and they can surprise you. I'm excited to see what they build."
The city and the Bellevue School District will host a Sustainability Symposium at City Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 28, where young applicants can workshop their applications, ask questions and get support developing project ideas. Details and registration are available through the school district's EcoLearn Project.
Residents between the ages of 15 and 24 can submit projects focused on climate change, energy and buildings, mobility and land use, waste and materials management, or natural resources. Projects should target local challenges through community events, education, outreach, neighborhood projects or other activities.
Applications are due Thursday, Nov. 5. Each project must be led by at least two young people, with each team submitting one application. All projects must take place in Bellevue and be completed by March 30, 2027.
More information on eligibility, project requirements and how to apply is available on the city's Youth Climate Action Fund page. Questions can be directed to Jake Sykes at [email protected].