Deadline: August 31, 2025
Klarna, in collaboration with Milkywire and WRLD Foundation, has launched the AI for Climate Resilience Program—a major new funding opportunity supporting AI-powered climate adaptation efforts in low- and middle-income countries. With grants of up to $300,000 per project, the initiative aims to scale responsible artificial intelligence solutions that improve local resilience to climate-related challenges.
In this blog post, we highlight everything you need to know about the AI for Climate Resilience Program, including who can apply, key dates, eligibility criteria, and how to get started.
What is the AI for Climate Resilience Program?
The AI for Climate Resilience Program is a new global grant opportunity backed by Klarna and Milkywire, with grants administered by the WRLD Foundation (a U.S.-based nonprofit). It focuses on locally led or community-driven projects that use AI to address climate adaptation needs in vulnerable communities.
The programme offers:
- Grants of up to $300,000 per project
- Mentorship, technical support, and access to a global community of practice
- A 12–18 month implementation period beginning January 2026
It is part of Milkywire’s broader commitment to climate transformation, aligning with its Climate Transformation Fund (CTF) efforts.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Locally led organisations
- NGOs or social enterprises working at the intersection of AI and climate adaptation
- Initiatives focused on community-level deployment in low- and middle-income countries
Projects must demonstrate responsible AI use and clear community engagement. Additionally, applicants should showcase a pathway to real-world adoption and long-term sustainability.
What Types of Projects Are Eligible?
The programme targets AI-powered solutions addressing climate adaptation challenges such as:
- Food security
- Health system strengthening
- Early warning systems
- Coastal and urban resilience
- Climate risk monitoring and forecasting
Projects must be deployment-focused, not just conceptual or academic research. Emphasis is placed on practical, locally relevant use of AI that addresses real-world climate vulnerabilities.
What is Not Eligible?
The following proposals will not be considered:
- Purely research-focused projects
- Emergency relief efforts without long-term adaptation value
- Projects focused solely on greenhouse gas emissions reductions
- Monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) platforms without adaptation impact
Timeline and Key Dates
Here’s a breakdown of the application and implementation timeline:
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| July 4, 2025 | Call for proposals opens |
| August 31, 2025 | Application deadline |
| September 2025 | Technical review and evaluation |
| October 2025 | Due diligence and contracting |
| Nov–Dec 2025 | Grantee onboarding |
| January 1, 2026 | Project implementation begins (12–18 months duration) |
Evaluation Criteria
All proposals will be assessed based on the following:
- Technical feasibility and deployment readiness
- Responsible AI governance (transparency, bias mitigation, data protection)
- Scalability and long-term impact
- Strength of local partnerships and community ownership
- Team capacity and alignment with climate resilience goals
An external Advisory Group and WRLD Foundation will oversee the review and due diligence process.
Why This Programme Matters
As climate risks intensify—especially in vulnerable regions—there is a growing need for scalable, tech-enabled solutions that help people adapt rather than just respond. The AI for Climate Resilience Program bridges the gap between frontier technology and frontline impact by enabling AI solutions that are ethical, inclusive, and grounded in local realities.
This programme also reflects Milkywire’s broader strategy through the Climate Transformation Fund, which funds high-impact interventions across carbon removal, nature restoration, and decarbonisation.
Apply or Learn More
Interested applicants should begin preparing their proposals well before the August 31, 2025 deadline.
For further guidance, including help with proposal development, partner outreach, or eligibility checks—feel free to reach out.
Need Help with Your Application?
If you’re preparing to apply for the AI for Climate Resilience Program and need expert support in proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact:
