The Town of The Blue Mountains and Grey County have announced that the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) is now accepting applications for its second round of funding.
This initiative aims to support youth-led climate projects throughout the region.
Following a successful first round, the Town has secured an additional $100,000 to distribute as microgrants ranging from $1,500 to $7,000.
These funds will help young people implement climate initiatives that focus on awareness, education, research, mitigation, adaptation, and community governance in climate action planning.
Projects funded by the YCAF can be carried out in any community within the traditional Territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (this includes The Town of The Blue Mountains, Grey County, Southern Georgian Bay communities, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation, Bruce County, and other surrounding areas).
"We are proud to support youth in our region as they advance climate initiatives," said Andrea Matrosovs, Warden of Grey County in a release. "It was inspiring to see our youth develop their projects last year. I encourage all youth to get involved, raise awareness, work together, engage their community, and take bold climate action."
To qualify, projects must be led and implemented by at least three youths between the ages of 15 and 24. Initiatives must align with The Blue Mountains Future Story (the Town’s sustainability plan) and/or Going Green in Grey (Grey County’s Climate Action Plan). Additionally, applicants must secure a sponsoring organization to support their project.
Applications are due by March 31, 2025. Successful applications will be announced on April 22, 2025, with all projects to be completed by October 31, 2025.
For more details, including eligibility requirements and funding guidelines, visit the Youth Climate Action Fund page on the Town’s website or contact Nicholas Cloet, Sustainability Coordinator, Town of The Blue Mountains, at (519) 599-3131 ext. 235.