The Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) Grant 2026 is a global funding opportunity aimed at empowering young people to actively participate in environmental research and scientific inquiry. Designed to support educators, schools, and youth-serving organizations, the grant focuses on strengthening youth-led environmental science projects by providing financial resources, technical support, and opportunities for public data sharing.
Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) is grounded in the belief that young people learn best when they are directly involved in real-world scientific research. By engaging students as citizen environmental scientists, the program helps them develop critical thinking skills, scientific literacy, and a deeper understanding of environmental challenges affecting their communities. The grant seeks to remove common barriers to participation in environmental research, such as limited access to equipment, transportation constraints, and insufficient instructional resources.
Purpose of the Grant
The primary objective of the Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) Grant is to enable students to move beyond classroom-based learning and engage in hands-on environmental investigations. Supported projects are expected to involve students in collecting, analyzing, and sharing environmental data that contributes to broader scientific understanding. Through this process, learners gain exposure to authentic research practices while building confidence and interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.
In addition to student learning outcomes, Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) also emphasizes community engagement and collaboration. Projects are encouraged to address local environmental issues and to involve partnerships with educators, scientists, and community stakeholders. By connecting youth research to real environmental concerns, the program fosters a sense of responsibility, citizenship, and environmental stewardship.
Funding Opportunities
The Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) Grant 2026 offers multiple funding categories tailored to different educational contexts and geographic locations.
Educators and organizations based in the United States may apply for grants of up to USD 1,500 to support student-led environmental research projects. These funds can be used to purchase scientific instruments, field supplies, data collection tools, and other materials essential for conducting environmental investigations. Projects must demonstrate active student participation and include plans for sharing research data publicly.
In addition, U.S.-based applicants may request up to USD 5,000 to organize local student research symposia. These one-day events are designed to mirror professional scientific conferences, allowing students to present their research, engage in peer review, and interact with STEM professionals. Such symposia help students develop communication skills while gaining exposure to academic and scientific communities.
International educators and organizations are also eligible to apply for funding, typically up to USD 1,500, to support youth environmental research initiatives outside the United States. International applications generally require endorsement from a recognized national environmental or scientific program to ensure alignment with global data standards and research practices.
Multi-Year and Collaborative Projects
Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) encourages applicants to think beyond short-term activities by proposing multi-year projects lasting up to three years. These extended projects should demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability, long-term impact, and continued student engagement. Applicants seeking multi-year funding are expected to outline how additional support will expand the reach of their project and strengthen partnerships over time.
Collaborative proposals involving schools, non-profit organizations, universities, or community groups are strongly encouraged. Such partnerships help enhance project quality, provide mentorship opportunities, and ensure that student research contributes meaningfully to environmental science efforts at local, national, or global levels.
Expectations of Grantees
Successful Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) grantees are expected to document and report on their project outcomes. This may include submitting photos, student reflections, summaries of research activities, and evidence of publicly shared environmental data. These materials help demonstrate the impact of funded projects and support broader outreach and knowledge sharing.
Grantees are also encouraged to highlight student voices and experiences, showcasing how participation in environmental research has influenced learning, career aspirations, and environmental awareness. By sharing these outcomes, Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) aims to inspire other educators and organizations to adopt similar approaches.
Eligibility Criteria
TheYouth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) Grant is open to environmental educators, schools, and youth-serving organizations that work directly with students. Applicants must present a clear and realistic plan for involving young people in applied environmental research and data collection. Proposals should emphasize active student leadership, scientific rigor, and public dissemination of findings.
Projects that promote inclusion, equity, and access for underrepresented or underserved youth are particularly encouraged, as the program seeks to broaden participation in environmental science worldwide.
Application Process
Interested applicants must complete an online application outlining their proposed project, budget, timeline, and expected outcomes. Strong applications clearly demonstrate how funding will enhance student learning, support environmental research, and contribute to long-term educational impact.
The Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) Grant 2026 represents a valuable opportunity for educators and organizations committed to nurturing the next generation of environmental scientists while addressing pressing environmental challenges through youth-driven research.
