Communities worldwide face growing climate threats like severe weather, damaged ecosystems, food shortages, and economic hardship. These issues hit local people hardest, but many lack a real say in the policies that affect them. People Powered offers two key programs to change that: the Climate Democracy Accelerator and the Rising Stars Mentorship Program. Both target democracy advocates, civil society groups, governments, and leaders who blend citizen input with climate action. Applications close on June 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM UTC.
About People Powered
People Powered works globally to promote participatory democracy. The group helps governments and civil society include citizens in decisions. They provide training, mentorship, technical aid, and funds. Since 2020, they have trained over 1,532 advocates and supported 178 programs in more than 50 countries. Their efforts span Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and other regions. Local involvement leads to better climate action and governance.
Climate Democracy Accelerator (CDA)
The Climate Democracy Accelerator runs for six months. It helps governments, civil society organizations, and climate advocates build participatory climate projects. Focus areas include renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, community-led governance, and fair climate shifts. The program builds ties between governments and groups to let communities shape climate decisions.
Benefits for Participants
Selected teams get dedicated mentors from People Powered’s network. They attend live sessions, workshops, peer groups, and expert exchanges. Access comes to the Participation Playbook, a guide for democratic processes. Each project receives a $10,000 grant. Five top plans get an extra $15,000, for up to $25,000 total.
Key Focus Areas
Projects center on climate adaptation, renewable energy, regenerative farming, community strength, citizen roles in policy, inclusive governance, and climate justice.
Who Can Apply
Teams need a government-civil society partnership and a focus on participation and climate. Global applications welcome, with priority for Brazil, Indonesia, India, and Mexico.
Real-World Examples
In Nigeria, Fundlink International held a Citizens’ Climate Assembly in Plateau State. It created a climate policy draft, set up a participation office, and spread to 17 areas. In India, Himad Samiti ran an assembly in the Himalayas for forest plans adopted by councils. Brazilian Amazon groups used local and Indigenous knowledge for climate fixes.
Rising Stars Mentorship Program
This program aids new leaders, groups, and practitioners in participatory democracy. It supports fresh projects or ones with hurdles. Mentors from People Powered’s network offer tailored advice.
Program Benefits
Participants join five one-on-one calls. Mentors aid in refining processes, solving issues, boosting engagement, and building models. They gain global networks with advocates from many countries.
Success Stories
Past participants launched Citizens’ Assemblies in Georgia, built youth platforms in Berlin, and grew local governance efforts.
How to Apply
Review eligibility and prepare documents. Civil society, governments, civil servants, advocates, and climate workers can apply. Use the online form. Submit early to beat deadline issues. For details, visit the program page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main programs offered by People Powered?
People Powered offers the Climate Democracy Accelerator for building participatory climate projects and the Rising Stars Mentorship Program for new leaders in democracy.
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on June 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM UTC, so submit early to avoid issues.
Who can apply to the Climate Democracy Accelerator?
Teams with government-civil society partnerships focused on citizen participation and climate action can apply, with priority for Brazil, Indonesia, India, and Mexico.
What benefits do participants get?
Participants receive mentors, workshops, resources, and grants up to $25,000 in the Accelerator, plus tailored advice and global networks in the Mentorship Program.
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