Washington Climate Corps Network

2023-24 HB 1176, signed into law by Governor Inslee on May 3, 2023, established the following goals for the Washington Climate Corps Network (WCCN):

• Increase participation in addressing climate challenges in overburdened communities.
• Expand the diversity, awareness, and accessibility of climate service opportunities in Washington.
• Create a service-learning program for funded network partners and their members.
• Increase awareness of and access to clean energy and climate-related career opportunities and networks.

Serve WA administers grant funds for local organizations, municipalities, and schools to implement climate service projects with young adults, veterans, and vulnerable populations. These projects address local climate needs while building the skills, education, and resources for careers in the green and blue economies of the future. Serve Washington also coordinates a service-learning program with grantees and partner agencies to achieve Washington state’s climate resilience goals.

We encourage you to propose a project that addresses the effects of climate change in your community.

We are interested in new and creative approaches to problems that your community supports — if you have an established service project or want to discuss ideas, we want to hear from you!

Some examples of service projects include, but are not limited to:

Energy efficiency upgrades:

• Retrofitting low-income community buildings with energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs.

Climate career training:

• Providing training programs for careers in clean energy, carbon capture, and environmental restoration.

Drought-resilient agriculture projects:

• Implementing drip irrigation systems and rainwater harvesting techniques to conserve water in agricultural practices.
• Training farmers in sustainable water management.

Kelp forest restoration for blue carbon:

• Replanting and protecting kelp forests to sequester carbon, support marine biodiversity, and enhance coastal resilience.

Installing energy microgrids:

• Developing small-scale energy projects in coastal or rural areas to provide renewable energy to off-grid communities.

The following resources will help you gather what you need to prepare and apply for a WCCN grant.

• Applicant Toolkit [PDF] 
• Application Preview [DOC]
• Budget Worksheet [XLS]
• WCCN Grant Webinar recording on YouTube

Your letter of intent should give an overview of your project and demonstrate how it aligns with the WCCN goals detailed in the grant toolkit. WCCN staff will review your letter of intent within two business days.

Submit your letter of intent

If we determine your project is eligible and aligns with WCCN goals, we will invite you to apply for a WCCN grant.

Please note: Only those whose letters of intent demonstrate eligibility and alignment with WCCN goals will receive an invitation.