Just Energy for All Seed Grants

The Just Energy for All Seed Grants program is administered by United Women in Faith, a national faith-based organization headquartered in New York City that focuses on social justice, advocacy, and community-driven impact. The organization works through networks of local groups and partnerships to address systemic inequities, with a growing emphasis on climate justice and equitable energy transitions. This seed funding initiative is designed to support grassroots and community-based efforts that align with the organization’s Just Energy for All (JE4A) framework, which prioritizes environmental sustainability, equity, and inclusive leadership. The primary purpose of the grant program is to fund small-scale projects that contribute to a just energy transition and climate justice outcomes. The program supports initiatives that reduce carbon emissions, expand renewable energy access, improve air quality, and promote community education and advocacy around environmental issues. Projects may include sustainable transportation solutions, energy efficiency improvements, fossil fuel divestment campaigns, or community-led education efforts. The funding is intended to catalyze early-stage ideas or expand existing grassroots efforts with clear environmental and social impact. Grant awards range from 100 to 5000 dollars, making this a microgrant opportunity suitable for pilot projects or capacity-building activities. While no explicit restrictions on allowable costs are stated, strong emphasis is placed on realistic and well-justified budgets. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how funds will directly support project outcomes. There is no mention of a cost-sharing or matching requirement, indicating that projects can be fully funded within the grant range if justified. Eligibility is inclusive but targeted. The program is open to initiatives led by United Women in Faith groups, local environmental justice organizations, and coalitions formed between these entities. Priority consideration is given to projects led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities and those that demonstrate a path toward long-term sustainability. Coalition-based applications are strongly encouraged, especially those that integrate faith-based groups with local environmental organizations. Applicants are expected to center equity in their project design and include directly impacted communities in leadership or decision-making roles. The application process begins with accessing a one-time-use link to initiate submission, after which applicants must use the YourCause portal for ongoing access, edits, and submission management. While specific application questions are not listed, strong proposals are expected to include measurable goals aligned with JE4A values, detailed budgets, and integration of recognized frameworks such as the Jemez Principles and the Principles of Environmental Justice. Evaluation criteria emphasize clarity of goals, equity-centered leadership, tangible outcomes, and the integration of education and advocacy components. The timeline for the 2026 cycle is clearly defined. Applications open on April 22, 2026, and close on June 17, 2026. Funding decisions are expected by July 25, 2026, with disbursement occurring by September 2026. Funded projects are to be implemented during the 2027 calendar year, and final reports are due by December 2027. The program appears to be recurring annually based on the structured timeline. For inquiries, applicants may contact United Women in Faith via email at info@uwfaith.org or by phone at (212) 682-3633.

Ensure goals are measurable and aligned with JE4A values; center equity and community leadership; include both tangible outcomes and advocacy; provide a clear and justified budget