Accelerating to Zero Grant Program
2023 program now accepting applications!
HCi3’s 2023 Accelerating to Zero grant program is now open for applications. The program supports innovative projects that help Halifax/Kjipuktuk reach its goals of becoming net zero by 2050 through a just and equitable low-carbon transition.
We’re seeking projects that either directly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions or enable the conditions for equitable and meaningful climate solutions to support the region’s journey to net zero.
Projects will be funded up to $50,000 for up to 24 months in duration. We may consider larger grants for projects that align exceptionally well with the program’s goals. You can view last year’s projects here.
Program Objectives
The program has four key objectives:
- CLIMATE IMPACT: Projects have long term carbon reduction potential and are scalable and replicable.
- COMMUNITY: Communities benefit beyond GHG reduction, e.g., through building partnerships, job creation, resilience, capacity building, and/or affordability.
- EQUITY: Groups and populations that have been traditionally excluded and systematically disadvantaged in climate solutions are empowered to participate in solutions that affect them.
- RECONCILIATION: Projects contribute to a reconciliation economy where wealth and resources are equitably shared and sustainably stewarded for this generation and those yet to come, in relationship with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Register now for an online information session March 15 at 10 am!
Download the full program guidelines
Challenge Questions
We invite projects that address one or more of the following challenge questions:
- How can we accelerate deep energy retrofits in commercial, institutional and/or residential buildings?
- How can we increase uptake of clean transportation, especially in underserved communities, including electric transportation, active transportation, micro-mobility and/or shared mobility?
- How can we accelerate community-led renewable energy, including preparing for community shared solar energy?
- How can we find integrated ways to reduce energy demand and increase resiliency in buildings, including through energy storage, vehicle-to-grid charging, and solar energy?
- How can we support community-led climate action? This could include engagement, education, demonstration projects, participatory builds, or other measures that will help drive support, knowledge, and capacity for equitable climate action, as well as direct carbon reduction initiatives.
- How can we center equity and reconciliation in climate action to ensure that the transition to net zero benefits everyone?
- What other critical barriers or gaps to climate action are not currently being addressed or funded through other government or non-profit programs?
To Apply
Please read the full program guidelines and submit an expression of interest form to grants@hci3.ca by March 29, 2023.
If your project meets our basic criteria, you will be invited to submit a full application including a budget and workplan by April 10, 2023.
Our commitment to an equitable and just net-zero transition leads us to prioritize projects led by and/or directly benefiting historically marginalized and racialized groups or populations, including Indigenous and African Nova Scotian communities. To ensure fairness and inclusivity, we have set aside a minimum of 20% of funds for these initiatives.
Please contact us at grants@hci3.ca if you’d like to discuss your project idea or have questions about the application process.
HCi3 Grant Program Guidelines 2023
Grant Program Expression of Interest
HCi3 gratefully acknowledges the support of the Government of Canada, the Province of Nova Scotia and the McConnell Foundation, whose funding makes this program possible.
