Archive · 29 Jul 2025
Climate Nonprofits Struggle Amidst Funding Cuts, Layoffs
Some groups that work to fight climate change are having trouble because of changes in government funding.
The government stopped giving money to some projects, which caused some organizations to lose staff and cut back on their work.
They are trying to figure out how to keep going, and some other groups are helping them by giving money.
Some groups are also suing to try to get their money back.
It's like when a school suddenly doesn't get the money it needs, and they have to change how they do things.
Climate-related nonprofits face funding cuts due to changes in federal policies.
Rewiring America, a group focused on home electrification, laid off staff and scaled back operations.
The EPA terminated grants from a $27 billion program, citing concerns about integrity and alignment.
Foundations and philanthropic groups are stepping in to address funding gaps for climate-focused organizations.
Some organizations are suing to recover suspended funds and adjusting strategies to adapt to the situation.
- Who
- Climate-focused nonprofits like Rewiring America, RMI, and Deep South Center for Environmental Justice.
- What
- Climate-related nonprofits are experiencing funding cuts and adapting operations.
- When
- Recent months, due to shifts in federal policy under the Trump administration.
- Where
- United States.
- Why
- Changes in federal funding priorities and policies have led to financial instability for these groups.
Nonprofit's View
Government View
Funding Dependency
Nonprofit's View
Nonprofits rely on government grants, facing financial instability.
Government View
N/A
Policy Impact
Nonprofit's View
Trump administration policies negatively affect climate action.
Government View
N/A
- Impacted Organizations
- Rewiring America, RMI, Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, others
- Grant Program
- $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund
- Staff Layoffs at Rewiring America
- 36 employees
- Funding Concerns
- Program integrity, fraud, and misalignment with agency priorities
- Government Response
- Tax law will create thousands of jobs.
- Philanthropic Response
- Some foundations are increasing giving, simplifying processes.