Albany, NY – June 3, 2026 – Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs has announced that the City of Albany will receive $50,000 in private funding to support youth-led climate projects through Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund. An additional $50,000 could be awarded following successful project implementation, bringing the total potential funding to $100,000.
The initiative empowers young residents aged 15 to 24 to design and implement projects that address climate challenges and improve neighborhoods. Albany is one of 300 cities worldwide selected to participate, and the program will launch a competitive application process inviting youth to submit ideas focused on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community improvement. Selected projects will receive funding and technical support from City staff.
Mayor Applyrs emphasized the importance of youth engagement: “Albany’s young people care deeply about the future of their city, and they, too, deserve a seat at the table when it comes to shaping that future. This initiative gives our youth the opportunity to take their ideas and turn them into action.”
The program aligns with Albany’s broader sustainability goals, including the Albany Climate Action Plan and ongoing heat mitigation efforts. Earlier this year, the City’s Office of Sustainability hosted public engagement sessions to involve residents in shaping environmental priorities.
Jason West, Director of Sustainability, highlighted the urgency of climate action: “Because of climate change, within 50 years Albany could be as hot as Louisiana is today – and getting hotter. Engaging youth in creating real-world solutions will help cultivate new civic leaders for the more difficult years to come.”
This announcement builds on Albany’s partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and reinforces the City’s commitment to community-driven climate solutions. By investing in youth-led projects, Albany is fostering innovation, resilience, and leadership while ensuring neighborhoods benefit from greener, more sustainable initiatives.
