Climate finance 101 for community organisations

Climate finance is money directed at reducing emissions and helping people adapt to climate change. For community organisations, understanding how it flows is the first step to reaching it.

Where it comes from

Sources include national budgets, development banks, international climate funds such as the Green Climate Fund and the Adaptation Fund, private investors and carbon markets.

How it reaches projects

Large funds rarely give directly to small groups. Money often moves through accredited institutions, national agencies and small grant programmes, so find the intermediary that fits your size.

What funders expect

• A clear project with measurable climate results.
• Sound financial management and governance.
• Evidence of community participation and fair benefit sharing.
• Safeguards for people and the environment.

Start small and build a record

A well-run small project with good data makes a larger application credible. Document results from the beginning.

Where to go next

Explore the 25 online courses at the NGO Leadership Academy and learn at your own pace.