Applications are now open for a new youth climate fund in Reykjavík. The fund aims to engage young people aged 15-24 in finding solutions to climate issues and support new projects that combat climate change. The application deadline is June 25, and the city expects to award grants in early September. The fund is a joint project of Reykjavík City and Bloomberg Philanthropies.
A wide range of projects may be eligible for a grant, including hackathons, awareness campaigns, and ecosystem recovery efforts. Reykjavík youth and organizations working with young people are encouraged to think creatively, develop new project ideas, and submit an application. Individual grants can reach up to 690,000 króna, with a total grant pool of approximately 5,600,000 króna.
"We look forward to seeing exciting projects come to life that draw on the initiative, ideas, and energy of young people — and that help the City meet its ambitious climate goals."
Youth participation matters
Dagur B. Eggertsson, Chair of the City Executive Council, said during the fund's announcement that the City stands to benefit greatly from supporting young people pursuing meaningful green projects.
"We look forward to seeing exciting projects come to life that draw on the initiative, ideas, and energy of young people and help the City achieve its ambitious climate goals," he said as applications opened.
Addressing the climate crisis requires everyone to work together and contribute fresh, creative ideas from diverse perspectives. Youth participation matters — international research shows that 84% of young people worry about the climate crisis.