The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Philanthropy Northwest have announced the launch of a new Thriving Communities program, inviting grant applications for environmental justice projects. This initiative aims to invest $40 million over three years in tribal nations and communities across Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
The grants will support community-led projects that address environmental justice issues such as air or water quality improvements, green job training, youth programming, and healthy homes. Jill Nishi, CEO of Philanthropy Northwest, emphasized the importance of these grants in addressing chronic underinvestment: “Awarding grants to communities who have been chronically underinvested in aligns with Philanthropy Northwest’s commitment to equity in our region.”
Eligible applicants include tribal nations, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and higher educational institutions serving communities most affected by climate change impacts like wildfires and droughts. Erik Stegman from Native Americans in Philanthropy expressed satisfaction with the partnership: “We’re pleased to partner with Philanthropy Northwest to help ensure this funding reaches Indigenous communities.”
Philanthropy Northwest is dedicated to equitable distribution of resources through an Advisory Group composed of philanthropy partners and a Task Force involving regional leaders. The program will offer three types of grants ranging from $150,000 to $350,000 for different project stages.
Currently open are two-year project development grants requiring a strong understanding of local issues. Applications must be submitted by December 15, 2024. The program is funded by the EPA’s Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program under the Biden-Harris administration's Investing in America Agenda.
For more information on application timelines and details about peer reviewer opportunities or future grant openings starting January 2025, interested parties can visit Philanthropy Northwest’s website.
