Pitt Green Fund is a student-run Green Fund Advisory Board that funds and supports student-initiated projects and programs that prioritize sustainability. Green Fund strives to make Pitt a more environmentally friendly and socially equitable place.
Pitt Green Fund’s annual application window is September through April. Funding requests will be reviewed by the Pitt Green Fund, the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation, and Pitt’s Office of Sustainability.
The Green Fund Allocations Board meets weekly to discuss proposals and hear from project applicants.
Pitt Green Fund receives its budget from the Student Activities Fee via the Student Government Board, the Bring Your Own Bag fee, and via Pitt Day of Giving donations.
Mission
The mission of the University of Pittsburgh Green Fund Allocations Board is to finance and support campus-initiated projects and programs that foster sustainability. We seek environmental, social, and economic equity on and around the Pittsburgh campus.
History
The Pitt Green Fund was piloted by Pitt's Student Government Board in 2010 and formally established in 2011 as the "Green Fund Advisory Board," funded through student activity fees. Run entirely by students, the Green Fund Allocations Board (GFAB) was created to promote sustainability at the University of Pittsburgh by funding initiatives created by and for the University community. Starting in 2021, Pitt Green Fund became the sole application portal for all student-led sustainability projects, consolidating funding applications from the Pitt Green Fund, the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation, and the University's Office of Sustainability. From 2018 through Fall 2022, the fund invested $34,249 in 56 projects including menstrual equity, solar picnic tables, composting programs, e-cycle programs, and internships and conferences focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
FAQ
- How can I apply to receive funding from the Pitt Green Fund?
Fill out the funding survey, providing a description of your project, contact information, and an itemized budget. Additionally, you will be asked to answer short answer questions regarding your project. Apply to the Green Fund here.
- When can I expect to hear from the Pitt Green Fund after submitting a funding application?
You should hear back from the Pitt Green Fund in 1-2 business days after submitting your application via Qualtrics. If you do not, please do not hesitate to contact us at greenfund@pitt.edu to ensure that your application was successfully received.
- How can I increase my chances of receiving funding?
The greatest barrier applicants face is appropriate University approval. It is recommended to start the process early to connect with staff and faculty involved in the facilitation, execution, and long-term ownership of your project or idea. Anyone listed as a team member in your proposal should be both aware and in support of your request. Letters of support from appropriate University partners are encouraged.
- What doesn't the Green Fund fund?
The Green Fund is committed to making Pitt a more sustainable community. For this reason, we do not fund:
- Food/Refreshments
- Conference travel
- Giveaways/Tabling materials (t-shirts, stickers, pins, etc.)
- Compostable cutlery and tableware
If you're interested in compostable products for an event, please reach out to learn about pre-existing resources that don't require funding. You can also check out Pitt Sustainability's Pitt Green Host & Event Resources and the Student Green Guide for other green event ideas.
- How much can I expect to receive from the Pitt Green Fund?
Pitt Green Fund is funded by SGB via student fees, but your funding application will also be simultaneously reviewed by Pitt’s Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation and Office Sustainability. Combined allocations depend on funding availability, campus impact, and project need. Past project allocations have ranged widely from $25 to $20,000; please apply for whatever you need.
- Can I receive funding from the Green Fund more than once?
While there is no limit on the number of applications you are able to submit to the Pitt Green Fund, it is expected that your project does not use the Green Fund as a sustaining funding source. We ask that you present a plan for outsourcing funding to continue your project.
- How long does it typically take to receive funding if approved?
This is dependent on multiple factors. Some include:
- Expediency needed. While we ask for a minimum of three weeks to request funding, we understand that needs can quickly arise, and the Green Fund works to provide resources quickly if/when possible.
- The amount of requested funds. The larger the request, the likelihood for partner involvement, which can take longer to approve.
- Appropriate approval and supports from the university and/or outside partners ex: Pitt Grounds Crew. It may take longer to determine funding capability if you do not already have the proper permissions.
- The type of funding request. Stipends, for example, typically take longer to process than a material purchase.
