Community-Based Climate Resilience Efforts

The Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) 2026 grants competition provides funding and technical assistance to support climate resilience projects in U.S.-based communities most vulnerable to climate change. CSCI, through its flexible grant model, supports efforts that either launch new climate adaptation initiatives or build upon existing work. Projects must focus on climate adaptation and resilience rather than mitigation activities such as emissions reduction or energy efficiency. The funding program is designed to empower community-driven solutions and prioritize historically disinvested populations disproportionately affected by climate hazards. CSCI grants range from $60,000 to $115,000, with the amount based on the proposed scope of work. In addition to financial support, grantees gain access to a cohort-based capacity-building program offering training and peer-learning. Supplemental funds may be available for technical support throughout the 12-month grant term. Awardees are also expected to participate in a learning and evaluation program aimed at identifying best practices and scalable resilience strategies across communities. Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based teams composed of three required partner types: an adaptation practitioner, a community-based organization, and a local or regional government entity. Projects must serve populations under 500,000 residents, with preference for those under 300,000 unless the proposal has a regional scope. The geographical eligibility encompasses all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories, including Tribal nations within these areas. Allowable uses of funds include climate vulnerability assessments, stakeholder facilitation, community engagement, and securing implementation financing. However, grant funds may not be used for lobbying, competitive subgrants, or projects primarily focused on climate mitigation. Additionally, proposed projects must be achievable within the 12-month term, as no-cost extensions are rarely granted. The application window closes on March 12, 2026. A webinar for potential applicants will be held on November 13, 2025, and interested teams are encouraged to assemble their required partners by February 5, 2026. Selection will be based on criteria including community vulnerability, equity integration, readiness for resilience work, potential for capacity building, and use of nature-based solutions. Each awarded project will designate a primary grant recipient, typically the adaptation practitioner, who will manage the contract and may distribute funds to other partners. Participation in orientation sessions and completion of evaluation activities throughout and beyond the grant period is required for all partners. Grant agreements must be signed within six weeks of receipt. CSCI seeks to enhance the long-term impact of its investments by funding projects that build enduring resilience capacity within local communities.

Highlight the community's climate vulnerability, integrate equity, reference prior resilience work, align with the Steps to Resilience framework, and demonstrate long-term capacity-building potential.