The Catalyst Initiative furthers Tree Equity by broadening the field of actors with capacity to act through best–in–class tools, resources and funding.  

Over the past five years, American Forests has led and mobilized a nationwide Tree Equity movement — working to address inequitable urban tree cover that affect people’s lives and health. Through this work, American Forests launched the Tree Equity Catalyst Initiative which resources frontline communities with both technical knowledge and funding to help them advocate for, plant and steward trees where they are needed most.  

American Forests’ Catalyst Initiative convenes, resources and mobilizes community-led action for Tree Equity. We provide cash grants through our Catalyst Fund, alongside learning and networking, technical assistance and capacity-building support which, paired together, can catalyze and sustain progress in Tree Equity for those facing barriers to entry. The Catalyst Initiative is a key part of American Forests’ goal to help at least 100 cities make meaningful progress on Tree Equity by 2030, by supporting frontline leaders in breaking barriers to the Tree Equity movement. 

These investments are critical — according to American Forests’ renowned Tree Equity Score, which maps tree cover against other socioeconomic factors, lower-income communities tend to have 26% less tree cover and are almost 6 degrees warmer than wealthier ones. 

*USDA and American Forests are equal opportunity providers and employers.* 

Stay connected to hear more about the Catalyst Initiative and our upcoming funding opportunities, events and ways to get involved.