Dear ICLEI USA Members and Partners,
As we reflect on 2025, I am filled with pride and gratitude for this extraordinary network. We began the year amid significant turmoil, with our work and values challenged on many fronts. Yet together, we turned adversity into momentum. We closed the year stronger, expanding membership and engagement, while launching new initiatives that advance long-term community growth.
In July, we proudly selected 49 communities for the Municipal Investment Fund (MIF) to build finance-ready clean energy project pipelines. Through this partnership with CGC , ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability USA (ICLEI USA) is delivering $11.5 million in market-building grants, paired with technical support, that are helping local governments, Tribal nations, and nonprofit partners across 46 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. These communities are unlocking private investment, creating jobs, lowering energy costs, and improving quality of life. Our MIF communities are gaining the tools, partnerships, and frameworks that our entire network can learn from to accelerate clean energy deployment and deliver cleaner air and water for all.
In another milestone, our members transitioned to ClearPath 2.0 , the state-of-the-art upgrade built by ClimateView for our industry-leading climate action planning platform. New capacity-building cohorts, including the Capital Cities Collaborative and African American Mayors Association climate training program, supported peer exchange and strengthened climate leadership nationwide.
As we celebrate ICLEI USA’s 35th anniversary, there is no doubt that our vision is as relevant as it was 35 years ago—indeed, even more urgent and widely understood. Thank you to the 522 local, regional, and Tribal governments we worked with in 2025 for your steadfast commitment to ensuring our communities thrive.
Last year showed us that we are most resilient when we stand together. In 2026, we put our ambitions back on the table. Check out the Year Ahead section to see what’s in store.
Onward and forward. Saharnaz Mirzazad
