The purpose of the Climate Action Grant Program is to support community involvement in Climate Action Plan implementation. The City of Ames provides funding for programs and activities that align with the City’s community sustainability goals, including the Climate Action Plan and EcoSmart Programs. Projects must also include an education or engagement component. 

Reach out to Nolan Sagan at nolan.sagan@cityofames.org or 515-239-5227 with any questions or for assistance with the application process. 

Community Climate Grants

Application are open now! Apply by Friday, April 4th.

The City will conduct another grant cycle in October 2025.

Grants of up to $10,000 are available to organizations in Ames for projects or activities that meaningfully advance the Climate Action Plan by:

• Reducing energy use
• Encouraging low-emissions transportation
• Reducing waste
• Conserving water
• Utilizing nature-based solutions

All organizations in Ames are eligible including non-profits and businesses, and projects must take place within city limits. A partial cost share is required. Refer to the program guide for all program requirements and evaluation criteria. A few examples could include, but are not limited to projects that:

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy use in buildings or transportation, such as solar, energy efficiency, and electric vehicle charging.
• Increase pollinator habitats, native tree canopy, or local food production. Projects could include establishing a community garden, native prairie, or a tree planting initiative.
• Education and outreach campaigns focused on specific topics or areas of concern such as waste diversion, clean transportation, or resilience.
• Explore or utilize innovative technologies and/or practices to reduce carbon emissions.

Grant Resources

• Community Climate Grant Guide
• Apply Here

Youth Mini-Grants

Mini-grants up to $500 are available year-round for youth-led projects or initiatives related to the Climate Action Plan. Students in grades 12 and under are eligible to apply. Eligible projects could include, but are not limited to:

• Projects to encourage fellow students to walk or bike to school
• Plant trees or other native vegetation
• School waste reduction, reuse, recycling, or composting initiatives
• School energy treasure hunts
• Reduce food waste at home or school
• Establish a shared vegetable garden
• Encourage fellow students and neighbors to reduce energy usage through education and/or distributing devices such as smart power strips
• Climate-focused art installations
• Partnering with people and/or local organizations to further their mission/events
• Survey fellow students and ask them about their sustainability priorities and opinions

Projects must include an education and engagement component. This could be in the form of a public event, social media post, news article, flyers, or other method of engagement as approved by the City. 

Grant Resources

• Youth Mini-Grant Guide
• Apply Here 

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s an education or engagement component?

This component is flexible and can be worked out with City Staff, the goal is to let people know about your project. For example, this could include an event promoting the project’s completion, a promotional video, or social media posts.

How many grants will be awarded?

Up to five Community Climate Grants will be awarded each cycle. The Ames City Council has allocated $70,000 in funding for both grants, including $66,500 for the Community Climate Grants and $3,500 for the Youth Mini-Grants. Grants will be awarded until funding is expended. Funding limitations may result in fewer awarded projects in the second cycle of the Community Climate Grant. 

What if I live outside of Ames?

Your project is still eligible if it takes place within city limits and primarily benefits Ames residents.

Can I start my project before being awarded?

Applicants may begin their project whenever they would like. However, any expenses made before the grant award date will not be eligible for reimbursement. The award date will be indicated on your award letter and will also determine the timeline for contracting and project completion.

How do I make my project more inclusive?

To make your project more inclusive, you could bring together people that you haven’t previously engaged with, ensure the benefits of your project reach low-income or historically underserved populations, actively seek diverse perspectives through surveys or conversations and incorporate feedback, and ensure your project is accessible to all.

I do not have regular access to a computer or the internet. Can I still apply?

Yes. City staff will be available to assist with accommodations that allow all community members to apply and navigate the award process. Please contact Nolan.sagan@cityofames.org or 515-239-5227 for assistance.

Can I partner with another organization?

Yes, partnerships are encouraged! One organization must be the lead applicant, and only the lead applicant will receive funds.

What if my project is not finished within 12 months?

Expenses after the grant period are not eligible for reimbursement. Extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis if justified.