This Program Is Awarding Five Emerging BIPOC Leaders $20,000 Each To Address Climate Change 

According to a 2021 Environmental Protection Agency analysis1 that quantifies six types of environmental impacts like air quality and extreme temperatures, Black and African American individuals are projected to face higher impacts of climate change, compared to all other demographic groups. In short, individuals most affected by climate change are inspired and motivated but need the support and resources to build environmental solutions that can make an impact. That's why Tom's of Maine is introducing its first-ever Incubator initiative.

The future of our planet depends on the empowerment of younger generations, and they know the importance of taking action. According to a Pew Research poll conducted in 2021, Gen Z is by far the most concerned about climate change, and 76% of them said that addressing climate change is at least one of several important concerns they have. One-third (37%) even said it was actually a "top concern to them personally." Now is a critical time to resource the ones who will be caring for and creating a more sustainable world tomorrow. Tom's of Maine believes that real change comes down to real action—not just talk—which is why they're on a mission to find the leaders who are ready to put their plans into action.

A little bit of funding and a vision can go a long way—and nobody knows that like Tom's of Maine. Back in 1970, Tom and Kate Chappell started with a $5,000 loan and a dream to create natural personal care products that are as good for the consumer as they are for the planet. Fast-forward to today: Tom's of Maine is a Certified B Corporation, which means they are held to the highest social and environmental standards; and they continue to make naturally sourced and naturally derived oral care and personal care products that are safe and effective. Beyond the integrity at the heart of their brand, they also donate 10% of their profits to nonprofits promoting health, education, and environment. This brand lives and breathes positive impact for people, planet, and health.

Five individuals selected will receive $20,000 in funding to support their mission. Then—in November 2022, the Incubator cohort will receive a trip to Maine for a kickoff summit, where they will meet with Tom's of Maine leadership and Incubator mentors. These mentors include several influential voices in sustainability and climate activism like the CEO and founder of Finch Lizzie Horvitz, Climate leader and co-founder of Green Job Boards Kristy Drutman, Isaias Fernandez, and CEO and founder of Rebundle Ciara Imani May. During the summit, the Incubator cohort will put their ideas on the table and kick off the seven-month partnership of collaboration, growth, and activism. Throughout the program, each recipient will have one-on-one access to their mentors as they realize their vision and bring their action plan to life.

We know how easy it is to get caught up in life's everyday commitments and responsibilities. But no matter our story, there's one thing that our collective well-being hinges on, and that's the health of our communities and our planet. Mother Nature needs the next generation of leaders that will take real action to bring a more sustainable future into existence—why not you?