Deadline: March 12, 2026
The Climate Smart Communities Initiative Funding Programme 2026 provides targeted grant funding and technical support to help communities across the United States strengthen climate resilience. The programme focuses on planning and early-stage implementation projects that address climate risks while centring equity, community leadership, and practical adaptation solutions.
The Climate Smart Communities Initiative Funding Programme 2026 is designed to support collaborative, community-driven efforts that build long-term resilience to climate impacts such as flooding, extreme heat, drought, and other climate-related challenges.
Overview of the Climate Smart Communities Initiative Funding Programme 2026
The Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) supports communities in developing and advancing climate adaptation strategies. Through financial grants and technical assistance, the programme enables communities to plan, prioritise, and begin implementing climate resilience actions that respond to local vulnerabilities.
Funding is intended for projects that are action-oriented, equity-focused, and grounded in real community needs.
Funding Amount and Grant Size
- Total funding pool: Approximately USD 1.5 million – USD 2 million
- Individual grant awards: Typically range from USD 75,000 to USD 115,000
- Project duration: All funded projects must be completed within 12 months
Key Dates and Timeline
- Application deadline: 12 March 2026 (by 8:00 pm Eastern Time)
- Informational webinar: A recorded session is available for applicants seeking guidance on the application process
Applicants are encouraged to review all programme requirements carefully and plan ahead to meet the submission deadline.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, all projects and partners must be based in the United States, including U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.
Required Three-Partner Team Structure
Applications must be submitted by a team of three partners, all of whom must be actively involved in the project:
- Adaptation Practitioner
- Provides technical climate adaptation expertise
- Must be listed in the Registry of Adaptation Practitioners prior to application submission
- Community-Based Organisation (CBO)
- Represents and engages the local community
- Ensures equity, inclusion, and community-led decision-making
- Local or Regional Government Entity
- Provides policy alignment, governance support, and institutional capacity
All three partners are mandatory for a complete and eligible application.
Programme Focus Areas and Priorities
The Climate Smart Communities Initiative prioritises projects that:
- Address significant climate vulnerabilities affecting communities
- Centre equity and justice, particularly for historically disinvested or marginalised populations
- Integrate nature-based solutions where appropriate
- Demonstrate community readiness and the capacity to advance climate resilience actions
- Promote inclusive planning, collaboration, and local leadership
Projects should clearly demonstrate how proposed activities will lead to measurable resilience outcomes.
What Successful Applicants Receive
Selected projects benefit from more than just financial support. Awardees receive:
- Grant funding to support planning and early implementation activities
- Technical assistance and capacity-building support
- Access to training opportunities and peer learning networks
- Optional supplemental support to connect with expert resources
This holistic approach ensures that communities are supported throughout the project lifecycle.
Eligible Use of Funds
Grant funds may be used for a range of climate resilience activities, including but not limited to:
- Climate vulnerability and risk assessments
- Community engagement and participatory planning processes
- Climate adaptation planning and prioritisation
- Early-stage implementation of resilience strategies
All funded activities must align with the programme’s adaptation-focused objectives.
Funding Restrictions
The following activities are not eligible for funding:
- Projects that primarily focus on climate mitigation, such as emissions reduction or energy programmes
- Direct funding to federal government agencies
- Lobbying or political advocacy activities
Applicants must ensure their proposals remain within the scope of climate adaptation and resilience.
Why Apply for the Climate Smart Communities Initiative Funding Programme 2026?
This programme offers a unique opportunity for communities to:
- Strengthen climate resilience through collaborative partnerships
- Advance equity-driven climate adaptation efforts
- Access expert guidance alongside financial resources
- Build long-term capacity to respond to climate change impacts
Need Support With Your Application?
We provide professional support services for proposal drafting, proposal refining, and proposal review to help strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
Application Links
Apply for the Climate Smart Communities Initiative Funding Programme 2026
Read more about the Climate Smart Communities Initiative Funding Programme 2026
