Build Your Climate Leadership Skills with the NextGen Climate Leaders Fund

Are you passionate about tackling climate change and ready to develop the skills to make a real difference? The NextGen Climate Leaders Fund offers Michigan Tech students a unique opportunity to invest in their future as climate changemakers.

What is the NextGen Climate Leaders Fund?

Thanks to a generous alumni donation, this fund supports current full-time Michigan Tech students at any academic level who want to build networks, develop competencies, and strengthen their leadership capacity around climate change solutions.

Funding Details

  • Award Amount: Up to $1,000 per student
  • Application Timeline: Rolling basis throughout 2025
  • Remaining Funds: Approximately $4,000 available for fall applications (from a total $10,000 allocated for 2025)
  • Quick Review Process: All applications reviewed within 10 business days

What Can Be Funded?

The fund offers flexibility in how you use the money, but you must demonstrate how your proposed activity will:

  • Develop your leadership skills
  • Build your capacity to create positive climate impact

Examples of Fundable Activities:

  • Conference attendance (including spring 2026 conferences if applying this fall)
  • Professional certifications in sustainability, renewable energy, or related fields
  • Networking events and workshops
  • Skills training programs
  • Leadership development opportunities

Note: Graduate students seeking conference funding directly related to their research should first explore funding through their academic departments.

Ready to Apply?

To apply, fill out this form

Please reach out to Alan Turnquist, Director of Sustainability and Resilience, if you have any questions: sustainability@mtu.edu