Youth Climate Action
What We Do?
The Global Youth Climate Action Fund (GYCAF) is the first of its kind climate fund dedicated to financing youth-led climate action around the world. The idea for the fund was birthed at COP25 and developed over a three months consultation period that involved virtual dialogues with finance experts to help curate a vehicle that supports and champions youth-led climate action. This initiative is hosted by BLI Global.
Advocating for Climate Finance
Mission & Vision
Goals
To spearhead and launch the first Global Youth Climate Action Fund that financially supports young people to take climate action and create green sustainable ecosystems both at the grassroots and globally.
Specific Goals
10 Year Strategy
GYCAF is working to close the USD 100 billion pledge between 2020 and 2030. The goal is to encourage private sector donors to contribute towards fulfilling our pledging quotas and still be able to disburse funds as needed to grantees and investees on a rotational basis. Fundraising efforts involve lobbying at UN Climate events, liaising with private donors, foundations and grants, and approaching investment funds to co-finance term sheets.
At the end of the 10 year cycle, performance of existing vehicles and portfolios will be reviewed and a determination will be made whether to close the fund or restructure the investment activities with more ambitious targets.
Our Team
Research Coordinator
Yutong Deng is pursuing a Master's in Public Policy and Management and has an Undergraduate Degree in International Studies with a minor in Communication. Yutong has research experience in environmental sustainability. She collaborates with the team to complete project management analysis and reporting outcomes. Yutong reports on our impact and investment funding to inform future financing initiatives.
Fundraising/Investment Coordinator
Maria is in charge of identifying and securing financial support and investment commintments to ensure the smooth running of the Fund's activities. She also works with the Program team to streamline project activities in line with budgetary constraints. Maria has experience working in the financial industry and is currently pursuing an MBA in Finance.
Sustainability and Innovations Coordinator
Gonzalo Carruitero is a Peruvian Environmental Engineering Student bachelor student with knowledge in experience in biodiversity, nature-based solutions and sustainable finance. He is responsible for the Sustainability Department of the fund. He is in charge of promoting environmental, energy, economic and social sustainability and leads the team in analysing our grant and financing strategies to align with the fund's vision.
Operations/Strategic Coordinator
Robert is responsible for the daily operations of the fund and works with the GYCAF team to streamline program expectations and activities. He is also key to successful program implementation, review and evaluation for the Board and donors including analysing funding and investment decisions.