Environmental Projects for New York Community Trust

The New York Community Trust is seeking proposals for environmental projects that focus on sustainable food systems, climate-resilient housing and land use planning, or community development driven by renewable energy. The projects should benefit Long Island, New York City, and the Lower Hudson Valley, and demonstrate a regional approach with collaboration among nonprofits. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a track record in environmental work and the ability to address needs across the specified regions. The Trust plans to award up to four grants, ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 over two years, for projects that promote systemic change and provide tangible benefits to downstate residents.

Services Requested

The vendor must provide environmental project services that focus on one of three key areas: sustainable food systems, climate-resilient housing and land use planning, or community development driven by renewable energy. These projects should benefit Long Island, New York City, and the Lower Hudson Valley, demonstrating a regional approach with collaboration among nonprofits. The vendor is expected to engage in advocacy and lobbying for systemic change, conduct practical research to inform policy and budget decisions, and develop planning and program initiatives. The projects should aim to promote systemic change and provide tangible benefits to downstate residents. Additionally, the vendor must ensure that the projects are informed by and inclusive of residents who typically do not have access to policy and decision-makers. The services should be delivered in a manner that addresses the needs across all three specified geographic areas.

Business Requirements

• Be a nonprofit incorporated or with offices in New York State and recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) entity or a fiscally sponsored program of such a nonprofit
• Have a track record of working in the environmental area on which the project focuses
• Have a project, campaign, or initiative that will address needs or benefit communities across New York City, Long Island, and the Lower Hudson Valley