An innovative funding scheme for eco-visionary Australians

Got a big green idea? Need money to help it grow? Then the British Council wants to hear from you. The Big Green Idea is a new funding initiative from the British Council designed to help put eco-visionary ideas into action. For the first time, in 2009 we’re offering five project grants of AU$10,000 each to people who will make a real contribution to Australia’s environmental future. The Big Green Idea is designed to assist in initiating new projects that motivate people to minimise their own climate change impacts. We’re looking for eco-entrepreneurs with savvy ideas to address some of the biggest sustainability challenges faced by urban communities.

British Council Director Rebecca Matthews said: “More than half the world’s population now lives in cities and in East Asia alone, millions of people are moving to urban areas every month in search of better opportunities and lifestyles – and putting more strain on all elements of these environments. “The Big Green Idea is seeking ambitious community-based initiatives that not only educate, but provide people with tools and opportunities to make positive changes to the sustainability of their own community.” Specifically, grants will be provided to projects that help urban communities become more sustainable by: – Reducing waste – Coming-up with better ways of travelling and using transport – Reducing energy use – Becoming more efficient with water or, – Through sustainable design.

The Big Green Idea is a part of the British Council’s International Climate Champions programme that works in sixty countries across the globe, with people who are passionate and committed to action on climate change. International Climate Champions have the opportunity to meet with local and national leaders to share their experiences, and on occasion have the opportunity to express their views to world leaders at international meetings, such as the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Copenhagen in December 2009. Successful Big Green Idea applicants will have the opportunity to take part in this global network, with opportunities for training and networking at global events announced throughout the year.

Applications are now open at www.biggreenidea.com.au and will close on Friday 4 December 2009.

For more information please contact info@biggreenidea.com.au or call (02) 9362 2022.

What are we funding?
Community-level projects focusing on local experiences with climate change impacts and adaptation. These could involve field research, interviews with community members, workshops, photo projects, film projects, etc.

Who are we funding?
Proposals can be made by interested groups or individuals, for example, local and indigenous organisations, research centres, researchers, graduate students with interdisciplinary training, community members (youth groups, women, elders) etc.

What topics?
Projects could explore any topic relating to climate change and local communities.

To apply, fill out the proposal form

For more information please visit Climate Frontlines.

What output?
Your project should result in a detailed account – either in the form of a written report, a video or other media production – in English, Spanish or French. It should contribute to a growing body of information about community-level concerns, observations and experiences relating to climate change impacts and adaptation. These submissions will also contribute to the development of postings and discussions on the Frontlines of Climate Change Forum.

Where are we funding?
We invite proposals from anywhere in the world, as long as they are for local-scale projects involving peoples and places vulnerable to climate change.

How much funding are we providing?
Between US$3000 and USD$5000 per project. Further funding may subsequently be provided for projects with interesting outcomes.

When are we funding?
Project grants will be distributed from mid-2009 onwards. Initial results would be expected before October 2010.

What is the deadline for submission?
Proposals should reach UNESCO on or before 15 July 2009.