How Cities Are Supporting Youth Climate Leaders

Bloomberg Philanthropies
Bloomberg PhilanthropiesApr 29, 2026

Why It Matters

Embedding youth voices in municipal climate action accelerates resilient solutions and creates a skilled talent pool, directly influencing future markets and policy.

Key Takeaways

  • Youth climate fund empowers 98 cities with funding and expertise.
  • Over 300,000 participants boost trust in local government by 22%.
  • Youth confidence in tackling climate rises from 65% to 90%.
  • More than half of cities create permanent youth councils or advisory boards.
  • Program will expand to 300 cities worldwide, scaling impact.

Summary

The video introduces the Youth Climate Action Fund, launched in 2024, which equips municipal governments with capital and technical capacity to involve residents aged 15‑24 in climate solutions.

Since its inception, the fund has reached 98 city halls, engaging more than 300,000 young people. Participation lifted youth trust in local officials by 22 points and boosted self‑efficacy from 65% to 90%. Over half of the municipalities have institutionalized youth input through councils or advisory boards.

Participants work directly with mayors on projects ranging from redesigning public spaces to safeguarding infrastructure against floods. One mayor noted that youth now view city hall as a partner rather than a barrier, reflecting a cultural shift in local governance.

The initiative plans to triple its reach to 300 cities globally, promising a scalable model for climate resilience and civic engagement. For businesses, the expanding network offers new partnerships, talent pipelines, and a framework for sustainable urban development.

Original Description

Because of the Youth Climate Action Fund, hundreds of thousands of young people no longer see their local governments as a barrier—but as a partner in solving the issues they care most about.
That’s why we’re tripling down.
By expanding to 300 new city halls, even more young people will work alongside mayors and local leaders to deliver visible improvements in their communities—advancing climate solutions and improving quality of life worldwide.
About Bloomberg Philanthropies:
Bloomberg Philanthropies invests in 700 cities and 150 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on creating lasting change in five key areas: the Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s giving, including his foundation, corporate, and personal philanthropy as well as Bloomberg Associates, a philanthropic consultancy that advises cities around the world. In 2024, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $3.7 billion.
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How Cities Are Supporting Youth Climate Leaders

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