Climate Research Incubator (CRI)

Green Umbrella's newest program, the Climate Research Incubator, provides training to a cohort of researchers, ensuring they have the tools to successfully engage with the public on climate. The program leverages local knowledge and expertise to create a community of practice in response to climate-related challenges and opportunities.

Geographic Scope: Greater Cincinnati region

Focus Areas:

• Science communication and public engagement
• Relationship building between researchers, community leaders, and government officials
• Regional resilience work
• Climate action planning

Primary Objectives:

• Provide training in science communication and public engagement
• Foster relationship building among participants from different sectors
• Support actionable seed projects developed in partnership with communities
• Create long-term network across academic institutions, community organizations, and local governments

Eligibility:

• Researchers passionate about climate issues
• Participants from academic institutions, community organizations, local governments
• Individuals in various disciplines

What They Fund/Provide:

• Science communication and public engagement training
• Annual symposium
• Project workshops
• Access to data and technical expertise
• Credibility building with decision-makers
• Networking with scientific and technical experts
• Participation in scientific research
• Support for community-based projects

2023-2024 Cohort: 16 researchers from Children's Hospital, Mount St. Joseph University, Northern Kentucky University, University of Cincinnati, and Xavier University

Program Components:

• Fall trainings on science communication
• Winter symposium bringing together community partners and public sector leaders
• Project workshops and collaborative initiatives

Collaboration: Co-designed with Dr. Kristy Hopfensperger, Professor and Director of Environmental Science program at Northern Kentucky University

Application Process

Green Umbrella now accepting applications for 2025-26 Climate Research Incubator Cohort. Specific application procedures, deadlines, materials, and submission details were not provided in the available information.