Somerville will soon engage young residents aged 15 to 24 in climate action projects with the support of a $50,000 award from Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund. This funding will enable the city to introduce a microgrant program encouraging youth-led solutions that address climate challenges and align with Somerville’s Climate Forward community plan.
The city was selected from over 300 applicants worldwide to develop a youth climate and civic action hub. Located within Somerville Public Schools’ Community Design Lab, this hub will serve as a dynamic space for young people to design and implement projects that enhance the city’s climate resilience.
The microgrant program’s launch is planned for Fall 2026. Somerville’s Office of Sustainability and Environment will oversee the initiative, collaborating closely with local schools. The city also plans to partner with higher education institutions, nonprofits, and industry leaders to broaden project support and collaboration opportunities for youth grant applicants.
Officials emphasize that empowering younger generations in climate efforts is essential since young people face the long-term impacts of environmental decisions made today. The program aims to nurture the next generation of climate leaders by providing learning, collaboration, and funding opportunities.
Somerville will disseminate application details through official channels, including the city website, social media, schools, and newsletters. Interested residents can also explore the city’s broader climate strategy at somervillema.gov/climateforward.
The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund has previously engaged hundreds of thousands of young people worldwide, supporting thousands of projects such as green spaces, tree planting, and sustainable innovations. Somerville joins this global movement to foster grassroots environmental leadership among youth.