What’s happening?

The City of Olympia is funding $5,000 grants to youth-led projects that help achieve our climate goals. As the future leaders of the city, youth are the foundation for climate action and solutions. We are looking for innovative project ideas to support during the 2026-27 school year. Applications are now open and will close on September 15, 2026.

The project is being supported by a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies as part of their worldwide Youth Climate Action Fund program
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What should the project focus on? 

Each project must pick one climate priority to focus on:

  1. Sustainable Transportation: Projects that help people choose alternatives to driving (e.g. biking, riding public transit)
  2. Waste Reduction and Circular Economy: Projects that help reduce waste or encourage reuse of materials.
  3. Community Action and Stewardship: Projects that increase energy efficiency, disaster preparedness, environmental protection, or raise awareness of climate change and impacts.
Need some ideas? Check out our example project list
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for inspiration.

Who can apply?

Applicants must:

  • Be between 15 and 24 years old.
  • Work in a team of at least 2 people.
  • Complete the project within the city limits OR primarily benefits Olympia residents.
  • Have a local organization sponsor the project.
If you need help finding an organization to sponsor your project, please reach contact Natalie Weiss (nweiss@ci.olympia.wa.us). We can help match you with an organization.

How will my project be evaluated?

All projects will be reviewed by a selection panel. As we review, we will be looking for projects that:
  • Align with the key climate priorities and themes
  • Youth take a leading role in the project
  • Are innovative, new, or experimental
  • Are realistic and focused
  • The budget is clear
  • The project has an easily understood and measured impact

Have questions or need more support? 


Contact Natalie Weiss at nweiss@ci.olympia.wa.us or at (360) 570-5828.