Join ICLEI USA
Sustainability starts at the local level. Since 1991, ICLEI USA has been the association led by and for local governments advancing climate and sustainability action.
When your city, county, Town, region or Tribal nation joins ICLEI, you become part of a peer-driven network committed to creating healthier, more resilient, and more equitable communities. We meet you where you are—whether you’re taking first steps or accelerating established programs—and provide the tools, expertise, and partnerships that help you move forward on your own priorities.
ICLEI USA supports both technical staff and elected officials, helping your leadership and implementation teams work together seamlessly. Our whole-of-government approach turns your community’s vision into action that makes a real difference.

What We Offer Members
At ICLEI USA, we help both staff and elected leaders make climate action happen in their communities. From hands-on support for day-to-day work to opportunities to represent your city or town on the global stage, we give you the tools and guidance to lead. Here’s how we support staff and elected officials in different ways.
- For Elected Officials
- For Staff

For Elected Officials
ICLEI USA provides mayors, council members, commissioners, and other local leaders with a platform to champion sustainability, resilience, and global leadership.
- Leadership Cohorts: Join peer learning groups with other mayors, council members, and local leaders to share strategies, tackle common challenges, and advance sustainability in your community.
- Advocacy on the Global Stage – Opportunities to represent your community at major international gatherings, including United Nations climate and biodiversity conferences, the annual High-Level Political Forum in New York, and Climate Week NYC.
- Policy Impact at Home – Guidance on adopting ambitious, data-driven policies, including science-based emissions reduction targets, Climate Emergency Declarations, and state-local collaborations.
- Local Diplomacy – Participate in programs like Cities Forward, Race to Resilience Culture, and other exchanges that connect U.S. leaders with peers worldwide.
- Leadership Roles within ICLEI – Eligibility to serve on ICLEI’s North American Regional Executive Committee (RexCom) and other global leadership groups shaping the international sustainability agenda.

For Staff
Our support is practical, flexible, and tailored to your community’s climate and sustainability journey.
- A Dedicated Advisor – Work directly with an expert who understands local government needs.
- Tailored Technical Assistance – Receive hands-on technical support customized to your community’s priorities and capacity.
- Tools & Resources That Work – Use ClearPath 2.0, LEARN, and other resources trusted nationwide.
- Practical Support – Get help with planning, data, funding, and implementation.
- Peer Connection & Exchange – Learn from communities like yours through trainings, cohorts, and workshops.
- National & International Leadership – Show your residents and peers that your community is taking action.
Membership Dues
Our dues are based on population size to ensure fairness for communities large and small.
Dues Calculator

ICLEI Membership Application
Regional entities: please reach out to ICLEI USA at iclei.usa@iclei.org to join.
Local Governments & Tribal Nations:
- Fill out the following application
- ICLEI staff will send an invoice
- Pay invoice
- Your dedicated membership advisor will reach out to set up an initial meeting