Airport Community Ecology Fund

The Airport Community Ecology Fund was SEA International Airport’s first community-focused environmental grants program. Initially launched with $1 million for three years to support community-based green jobs training and environmental improvement projects near the airport, the fund exceeded expectations and has expanded into two additional grant programs, now distributing $10 million over the next three years. The program has become a national model for investing in airport-impacted communities.

‍

Key Outcomes and Deliverables:

• Community Engagement: Developed and implemented an inclusive community engagement plan that involved three near-airport cities impacted by SEA Airport operations, ensuring broad participation and input.
  
  
• Data Collection: Conducted outreach events and forums to gather qualitative data from city staff, community members, non-profits, and youth, providing deep insights into local concerns and priorities.
  
  
• Strategic Recommendations: Analyzed collected data and proposed actionable strategies to improve relations between the airport and neighboring city governments, with a strong focus on environmental issues.
  
  
• Grants Program Development: Created and launched the pilot community-focused environmental grants program, successfully administering funding to support local green jobs and environmental initiatives.
  
  
• Equity-Driven Criteria: Established equity-focused grant criteria and administration practices, ensuring fair access and opportunities for all applicants, and provided capacity-building training for grantees.
  
  
• Capacity Building: Empowered community members to navigate airport regulations and grant processes through workshops and the creation of accessible materials (print/web) on grant applications and reporting.
  
  
• Internal Transformation: Improved internal agency practices to better serve community needs, training staff and key departments in cultural competency and equity, particularly in grant administration.
  
  
• Biannual Application Process: Established and managed a transparent, biannual application process, piloting a community leadership model in final funding recommendations to ensure local priorities were at the forefront.
  
  
• Reporting and Accountability: Designed a reporting process with clear metrics and guidelines, ensuring transparent and accountable distribution of funds.

‍