Applications Now Open for NYCHA Resident Climate Action Grants

Screening applications have opened for the 2026 NYCHA Resident Climate Action Grant Program and will be open until February 12, 2026. The community-focused initiative supports resident-led climate action and sustainability projects within New York City’s public housing developments, offering grant funding and technical assistance directly to residents. The grant program is made possible thanks to the Public Housing Community Fund (PHCF) and The New York Climate Exchange (The Exchange), in partnership with NYCHA. 

Approved applicants will be invited to apply to one of three tiers of the action grants: Seed Grants, Growth Grants, and Sustain Grants. Grantees will be announced by Earth Day, April 22, 2026.  

The three tiers of this year’s grants are as follows. Seed Grants, microgrants of $1,500 or less, for early-stage ideas or one-time projects meant for grantees who want to test ideas, take first steps or try something new. Growth Grants, medium-sized grants of $5,000 or less, which support more robust or fully formed project ideas, whether new or already underway, that need additional resources, coordination, or capacity to reach their full potential. Sustain Grants, larger grants of $15,000 or less, for existing projects or organizations that have shown impact focused on long-term sustainability and community benefit. The program will conclude with the NYCHA Resident Climate Action Grants Showcase, where residents will present their work to combat climate change and promote sustainability.   

Interested applicants can apply here: https://www.communityfund.nyc/climate-action. 

“Now entering its fourth year, the Climate Action Grant Program has proven to be an incredible success, providing NYCHA residents with a creative outlet that delivers real-world impact while advancing climate justice in communities that are too often overlooked,” said Alex Zablocki, Executive Director of the Public Housing Community Fund. “The program not only addresses climate challenges, but also equips residents with problem-solving skills and a framework for long-term career success. We’re grateful to NYCHA and The New York Climate Exchange for their continued support and look forward to seeing the unique proposals residents bring forward.” 

“The best solutions for climate challenges come from the people who know their communities inside and out,” said Victoria Cerullo, Director of Urban Engagement at The New York Climate Exchange. “That’s why we’re expanding our investment in resident-led ideas across all five boroughs together with Public Housing Community Fund and NYCHA. The Exchange is ready to activate our 48-partner network to bring more resident projects to life in 2026.” 

“We are proud to continue this vital partnership, which serves as an extraordinary resource for NYCHA residents looking to make an impact through local climate action,” said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “Residents have a deep understanding of their communities, and this program empowers them to turn their innovative ideas for sustainability into reality. We look forward to seeing how this year’s recipients will use these Seed, Growth, and Sustain grants to build greener, healthier neighborhoods.” 

“NYCHA residents are already leading the way with bold, creative ideas to confront the climate crisis—and this is exactly what it looks like when the city invests in community power,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer Louise Yeung. “The Climate Action Grant Program shows how resident-led solutions can be brought to life, strengthening public housing while building a greener, more sustainable New York City for everyone.” 

First launched in 2022, this year is the fourth cohort and expands on the goal of supporting residents in mobilizing their creativity and problem-solving skills to positively impact their communities. Last year’s program offered a diverse range of climate solutions that collectively benefited 40,000 public housing residents. With five projects in Manhattan, four in Brooklyn, three in the Bronx, three in Queens and two on Staten Island – the program’s work spanned NYCHA communities across the five boroughs. This year’s program is funded by Public Housing Community Fund donors, The New York Climate Exchange, Rise Light & Power, and HSBC. Past grantees have brought forward creative projects that focus on a wide variety of environmental issues, including improving public garden space, composting, energy use, climate adaptation, and climate arts.  

In September 2021, NYCHA released an updated Sustainability Agenda, outlining the Authority’s commitment to providing healthy, comfortable homes that reflect strong environmental stewardship and sustainable design. That same year, NYCHA launched the Climate Action Network workshop series to raise awareness of its energy and sustainability initiatives and to foster climate awareness and activities in communities. Feedback from these workshops highlighted the need for the Climate Action Grant Program, launched during Climate Week 2022.  

Residents and partners who want to start or help expand a community garden or farm at NYCHA can reach NYCHA’s Farms and Gardens team by emailing gardens@nycha.nyc.gov.