City Looks to Partner with Rochester Youth Leaders in Climate Action Fund Efforts

Rochester has been selected to participate in the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF), a global initiative supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies that facilitates partnerships between cities and young people to develop and fund local climate solution ideas. 

Through YCAF, teams of at least two young people ages 15 to 24 can apply for grants of up to $5,000 to turn their climate action ideas into projects that can help shape the City’s upcoming Climate Action Plan (CAP) update. Rochester’s Climate Action Plan is a roadmap for reducing pollution, preparing the community for climate change, and creating a healthier, more resilient city for everyone. The update will build on the City’s ongoing climate action efforts and identify new strategies to help Rochester meet these goals. 

Projects must align with one or more of Rochester’s four Climate Action themes: 

• Protect: Neighborhood resilience and safety, including efforts to address flooding, extreme heat and other climate risks. 

• Thrive: Healthy homes, energy affordability and public health, including energy efficiency, clean air and lower utility costs. 

• Connect: Safe and reliable transportation, including efforts to make getting around Rochester safer, more affordable and low carbon. 

• Grow: Jobs, workforce development and the local economy, including clean energy, waste reduction, sustainable development and opportunities for local businesses. 

Young people and eligible partner organizations can find project and budget examples, eligibility requirements, and information about Rochester’s Climate Action Plan update at www.cityofrochester.gov/YouthClimateActionFund. 

Applications are open through Sept. 25, 2026.