Transizione in Comune Grant Scheme
Transizione in Comune is a grant scheme launched by Fondazione Cariplo, the Milan-based philanthropic foundation descended from the Cassa di Risparmio delle Provincie Lombarde. The scheme's first edition, announced on 12 November 2026, makes 5 million euros available and is open to provincial capitals in Lombardy, excluding Milan, as well as to the Piedmontese provinces of Novara and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. Its goal is to support fair climate transition projects that protect the urban communities most exposed to the effects of climate change and to social inequality.[1]
Goals and context
The scheme was launched against a backdrop of intensifying extreme weather events and social difficulties: in 2024 the global average temperature exceeded pre-industrial levels by more than 1.5 degrees, while energy poverty affected 2.4 million Italian families. The initiative aims to combine environmental sustainability, health protection and social inclusion. Fondazione Cariplo's deputy chair, Claudia Sorlini, said that climate transition can and must also be a social transition, with the aim of helping cities turn a global challenge into concrete responses for the most vulnerable people and neighbourhoods.[1]
Eligible projects and participation
The scheme requires applications to be submitted by partnerships made up of the municipal administration together with at least two non-profit organisations active in the environmental and social fields. Eligible projects include the creation of climate oases and shelters, urban reforestation, the development of Renewable and Solidarity Energy Communities, the strengthening of support services for vulnerable people, and energy education and health prevention projects.[1]
Deadlines
The selection process is divided into two phases. Expressions of interest must be submitted by 16 March 2027; from April onward, the selected partnerships will have access to a technical assistance programme provided by the Foundation to define the operational details of their projects. The second phase closes in October 2027, when the final evaluation and the awarding of grants is due to take place.[1]
Sources
- Bando Fondazione Cariplo: transizione in Comune, anche per Novara e Vco — NovaraToday, 12 November 2026