Description
The Climate Justice Fellowship (PON 4772) is a NYSERDA‑funded program that provides a full‑time, 12‑month fellowship to individuals from priority populations or disadvantaged communities in New York State. Host organizations—such as nonprofits, universities, municipalities, tribal nations, CTE programs, public libraries, climate‑tech innovators, venture‑development entities, or clean‑energy businesses—receive up to $40,000 per fellow to cover a mandatory $37,000 salary plus up to $3,000 for professional‑development services. Fellows work on climate‑justice and clean‑energy projects that benefit disadvantaged communities, with mentorship and professional‑development support supplied by NYSERDA partners. Funding is allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis until the $6 million pool is exhausted or the final deadline (June 30 2026) is reached.
• Eligible hosts must have a physical NYS location, at least two non‑fellow employees (with certain MWBE/SDVOB/start‑up exemptions), and the capacity to provide full‑time health benefits.
• Fellows must be NYS residents, belong to a priority population or reside in a disadvantaged community, and be a new hire for the 12‑month term.
• NYSERDA pays the host on a monthly milestone basis (12 payments of $3,083.33) after receipt of timesheets, activity reports, and payroll documentation; professional‑development reimbursements are submitted separately.
• Hosts must retain records for three years, comply with numerous NY statutes, and allow fellows to participate in mandatory mentorship, peer groups, and the Climate Leadership Certificate program.