The Roots Microgrants Program is now accepting applications for 2025! This initiative provides funding of up to $10,000 USD per group to support youth-led projects, initiatives, or campaigns advocating for climate justice through an intersectional lens. Beyond financial support, grantees will also receive ongoing mentorship to help maximize the impact of their work.
About the Microgrants Program
Roots aims to fund 10-15 grassroots youth-led initiatives, with a focus on the following regions:
- Middle East and North Africa
- Southeast Asia
- South Asia
- The Caribbean
- Latin America
- Sub-Saharan Africa
Roots is built on the philosophy of “community-born, community-led, and community-owned” solutions. The program empowers young leaders in the Global South by providing resources, tools, and networking opportunities to drive transformative political and social change.
Who Can Apply?
The program supports youth-led projects that:
- Advocate for climate justice using an intersectional lens.
- Have a strategy focused on systemic change.
- Engage new, persuadable audiences.
Successful applicants will demonstrate:
- Community-driven approaches: Initiatives must originate from grassroots efforts and be driven by the local community.
- Well-being focus: Groups that emphasize the well-being of their members and foster resilient structures.
- Ambitious, transformative solutions: Innovative strategies that address the root causes of the climate crisis.
- Support for marginalized communities: Engagement and aid for marginalized populations through capacity-building, leadership workshops, and climate-focused programs.
- Intergenerational collaboration: Initiatives fostering cross-generational relationships and outreach beyond existing climate action circles.
Application FAQs
Who can apply?
Applicants must be between 18-35 years old, with at least 70% of their group members also within this age range.
How is the Microgrants Program funded?
The program is led by Roots and supported by the Urban Movement Innovation Fund.
Do applications need to be in English?
No. Applications are accepted in English, Spanish, French, and Arabic.
Do we need to be a legally registered organization?
No. Both registered and unregistered groups are welcome to apply, but for-profit ventures are not eligible.
Can AI be used for the application?
While AI can assist with translations and formality improvements, applications should primarily reflect your own words and ideas.
When is the application deadline?
Applications open on March 14, 2025, and close on April 14, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
What is required for the application?
- A detailed proposal explaining the project’s goals and impact.
- A budget proposal outlining how the funds will be allocated.
- A short video submission (max 3 minutes) detailing your project, climate justice advocacy, and community impact.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed in multiple stages:
- Shortlisting – The Selection Team identifies 20 groups that meet eligibility criteria.
- Deliberation – The Youth Advisory Group provides feedback based on key funding priorities.
- Final Selection – The Selection Team makes funding decisions based on values, priorities, and impact.
- Funding Distribution – Selected groups receive funding in July 2025 and have up to one year to complete their projects.
Additional Benefits for Grantees
- Coaching & Training: Each grantee will be assigned a coach for project guidance and strategy support.
- Capacity Building: Access to workshops on organizing, creative storytelling, resilience, and counter-disinformation.
- Community Building: Integration into the Roots network and potential participation in Climate Justice Camps.
- Media & Social Media Support: Promotion through Roots’ digital channels and assistance with local media engagement.
How to Apply
- Submit your application online (preferred method).
- If facing technical difficulties, contact us at [email protected] for alternatives.
Restrictions on Applications
We will not consider applications for:
- Proposals from for-profit entities, governments, or organizations based in the Global North (except those led by BIPOC communities supporting Global South efforts).
- Projects focused solely on mobilization without a long-term strategy.
- Initiatives without a clear plan for reaching new audiences or fostering systemic change.
- One-off activities such as tree-planting or beach clean-ups unless part of a larger strategy.
Key Dates
- March 14, 2025: Applications Open
- April 14, 2025: Application Deadline
- June 2025: Selection Notifications
- July 2025: Fund Distribution
If you’re ready to take action for climate justice, apply today! For any questions or assistance, email [email protected]
