CASE STUDY

Youth Funding & Participatory Grantmaking Luncheon

Held during Climate Week NYC at Hope House, the Youth Funding & Participatory Grantmaking Luncheon brought together youth leaders, funders, and participatory grantmakers for an exclusive, invite-only dialogue. This intimate gathering fostered meaningful exchanges on funding youth-led and youth-serving climate initiatives, with a special emphasis on supporting frontline communities most affected by climate change. Attendees explored challenges, shared best practices, and discussed transformative approaches to participatory grantmaking, sparking ideas to reform traditional funding structures.

Date: September 26th, 2024

Challenge:

Traditional funding models often overlook youth-led and frontline community initiatives, despite their critical role in addressing climate justice. There is a pressing need to challenge existing systems and create pathways to equitably support underrepresented voices in the climate movement.

Solution:

This luncheon provided a platform for collaboration among stakeholders to rethink grantmaking practices. By emphasizing participatory approaches and prioritizing frontline communities, the conversation encouraged attendees to innovate and accelerate funding for youth-led initiatives. Chatham House Rules fostered candid dialogue, and the session concluded with actionable pathways for future collaboration.

Outcome:

The event inspired attendees to adopt more inclusive and equitable funding practices, laying the groundwork for future partnerships. Participants left with a deeper understanding of the systemic changes needed to support youth and frontline communities effectively, as well as a shared commitment to transforming the grantmaking landscape.