California Air Resources Board

Why did California Climate Investments create the Funding Workbook?  

California Tribes make up a key part of the broader California community and are among the populations prioritized by California Climate Investments. However, Tribes face a unique set of barriers in accessing State climate programs that result from historic oppression, limited state and federal support, and limited capacity and resources, among other inequities. Still, Tribes navigate these barriers with resilience and develop priorities to best serve Tribal members and preserve Tribal culture.

Throughout 2023, California Climate Investments staff sought out perspectives from Tribes on questions ranging from their priorities when assessing fit for a state program, their experiences as grantees of State programs, and the barriers that prevent them from obtaining key information. The idea of creating a Funding Workbook came about as a response to what California Climate Investments staff have learned from Tribes. California Climate Investments also sought out early feedback from the California Environmental Protection Agency's (CalEPA) Tribal Advisory Committee (TAC).

Who is the Funding Workbook for?  

The Funding Workbook is meant to serve all Tribes, regardless of federal recognition, and inclusion was a priority in developing the resource. No prior experience with California Climate Investments is needed to use the workbook, and the resource was created with first-time users in mind. Throughout, background, context, and tips are included to orient those who may be new to navigating climate programs offered by the State of California. The Funding Workbook also considers funding available to Tribes who operate via a 501(c)(3)nonprofit.

The workbook is meant to be completed in whichever way the user would like, whether that is as a self-paced individual exercise, as a group activity, or with the support of California Climate Investments staff.  

Explore the Funding Workbook for All California Tribes at the California Climate Investments website.