Applications Open for the 2025 Inclusion Climate Innovation Labs (ICIL) Cohort (Fully-Funded)

Applications Open for the 2025 Inclusion Climate Innovation Labs (ICIL) Cohort (Fully-Funded)

• Eligibility:
  • Age: 18 to 35 years as of February 2025.
  • Identity: Must identify as at least one of the following:
    • Gender and sexual minority
    • Young woman
    • Person with a disability (PWD) – proof required
    • Refugee – proof required
    • Ethnic minority
  • Language Proficiency: Must be able to communicate and write in English independently.
  • Leadership Role: Must hold a key position within an organization, such as Founder, Co-founder, Manager, Director, Entrepreneur, or leading a start-up, youth group, community-based organization (CBO), NGO, or social enterprise. Only one application per group is allowed.
  • Engagement in Climate Action: Must be actively addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, or their intersection through organizational or community initiatives.
  • Experience & Registration: At least one year of operational experience. Must be a registered entity (proof required). Priority is given to registered organizations, but non-registered entities with at least one year of documented operation may apply.
  • Geographic Location: Must reside and operate in one of the following areas:
    • Coastal: Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Tana River
    • Lower Eastern: Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, Mwingi
    • North-Eastern: Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo
    • North-West: Kakuma Refugee Camp, Turkana, West Pokot, Marsabit
  • Commitment: Must fully participate in all project activities, including a fully funded in-person regional engagement and four to five digital/hybrid sessions (airtime for data bundles provided).

Application Process

• Online Application: Apply via the official Google Form.
• Email Submission: Applicants from areas with poor web connectivity can obtain the form, complete it, and submit it via inclusionclimatelabs@gmail.com.
• Important Notes:
  • Applicants should complete the form independently (except for PWDs requiring assistance, although responses must be their own).
  • Incomplete applications will be rejected.
  • Proof of age, disability, or refugee status (where relevant) will be securely handled and deleted post-verification.
  • Registered entities must submit their registration certificates.

Program Benefits

• Fully funded in-person regional engagement: A one-day gathering for networking with fellow climate leaders.
• Comprehensive hybrid learning sessions covering topics such as donor preparedness, personal branding, financial literacy, organizational development, sustainable social enterprises, systems thinking, advocacy & policy impact.
• Continuous mentorship: Access to business mentors and project partners.
• Mental Health First Aid and Legal Aid support: Monthly check-ins by strategic partners.
• Lifetime membership in the Network of Grassroots Organizations and Movements for peer-to-peer support and unique events.

Recruitment Drive Timeline

• Call for Applications: February 3 – February 23, 2025.
• Information Session (Network Members): February 6, 2025.
• Information Session (External Applicants): February 14, 2025.
• Application Review & Shortlisting: February 24 – February 26, 2025.
• Participant Background Check & Interviews: March 3 – March 5, 2025.
• Selection & Notification of Participants: March 11, 2025.

How to Apply

• Visit the official ICIL application page and complete the application form.
• For inquiries, contact inclusionclimatelabs@gmail.com.