Dream the Future: Green Career Scholarship

A scholarship program offered by Dream.Org in partnership with Frontline Gig that invests in the next generation of climate leaders by providing up to $3,500 to help underrepresented talent access training and careers in sustainability and clean energy.

Geographic Scope

• Available across the 50 U.S. states
• Priority: Pittsburgh area residents

Focus Areas

The scholarship supports education and professional development in:

• Clean Energy
• Green Infrastructure
• Urban Forestry
• Sustainable Construction
• Climate Justice Advocacy
• Trades of the Future
• Business, Environmental, Transportation, and Infrastructure fields focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be 18 years or older by the application deadline
• Demonstrate financial need
• Be an individual pursuing or training in the green space (see focus areas above)
• Be a U.S. citizen or resident and reside in one of the 50 U.S. states for tax purposes
• Have a valid bank account in your name to receive the award via direct deposit
• Be currently enrolled in a qualified green sector-related program, planning to enroll within 6 months of receiving the award, or have completed a qualifying program within the last 6 months

Priority: Given to those from underrepresented backgrounds, especially Black and Brown individuals, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those impacted by the justice system.

Qualified Programs

Your program must be offered by:

• An accredited academic institution (training program, community college, or 4-year university), or
• An accredited organization recognized as best in class within the industry

Responsibilities if Selected

If awarded, you agree to:

• Submit proof of enrollment or program completion
• Submit a government-issued photo identification card (e.g., Driver's License, Passport)
• Complete W-9 Tax Form
• Accept the invite from bill.com and create a profile with bank account information
• Complete your program without interruption unless otherwise approved
• Notify Dream.Org if funds are not received within 10 business days of the issue date
• Join Dream.Org's Slack community and mailing list
• Check in quarterly and attend optional Dream.Org and/or Frontline Gig events
• Submit a brief update every 6 months on progress, career milestones, or life changes related to training

Contact Information

• Email: alejandra@dream.org
• Address: 436 14th St, Suite 920, Oakland, CA 94612
• Phone: Text 97483 for mobile updates

Background

To date, Dream.Org has awarded scholarships to 600+ individuals, with 20% of recipients being justice-impacted. The program addresses the barrier that 40% of promising trainees leave construction or energy programs before completion due to financial hardship.

Application Process

Step 1: Complete the Readiness Assessment

• Complete a short questionnaire that helps Dream.Org learn about your goals, interests, and training needs in the green economy

Step 2: Participate in a Coaching Call

• After completing the assessment, you'll be invited to schedule a brief, informal coaching call with a member of the Frontline Gig team
• This conversation helps them get to know you better, hear about your goals, and discuss any potential barriers to success
• This is a key part of the selection process and helps them offer the right support

Bonus: Complete Gigs in Your Area (Optional but Recommended)

• Log in to the Frontline Gigs Platform to explore short-term green gigs available near you
• You can get paid for work like tree counting, energy audits, solar outreach, landscaping, and more
• Participating in gigs demonstrates initiative and commitment to building a green career
• Completing gigs (if available in your area) may give your application an edge
• Check what's available in your area, complete a gig, and get paid for the work you do

Final Step: Interview (If Selected)

• If considered for an award, you'll have a final interview with a member of the Dream.Org team

Notification Process:

• All updates will be sent to the email address used to sign up for the Frontline Gig Platform
• Some programs may also offer text notifications
• It is your responsibility to ensure your steps are complete and that you are meeting the requirements

Funds Distribution:

• Funds are distributed via direct deposit through bill.com
• You'll receive an email to create your bill.com profile and securely upload your banking information
• Use your legal name (as registered with your bank) to avoid delays
• Funds cannot be sent to accounts in someone else's name
• You will be notified by email when your funds are issued

Application Timeline:

• There is no set deadline, as the selection process is ongoing monthly until funds are exhausted