Go where public and private dollars can’t
When it comes to innovative climate solutions, the public and private sectors are risk averse. Governments are under pressure to fund short-term solutions, while the private sector is reluctant to risk results. This creates a “valley of death” between incubation and large-scale implementation. The flexibility, stability, and independence of the GMCF allow for the risk tolerance necessary to remove barriers to the implementation of technologies, policies, and financial tools.
Go where the emissions are
The GMCF model focuses on the main sources of emissions because we are “tracking carbon”. The majority of Canada’s urban emissions come from buildings, transportation, and landfill waste. We focus on scaling up key solutions in these areas, e.g. building renovations, low-carbon alternatives to heating fuels, electrification of transport, shared mobility, and a zero-waste circular economy.
Go where the ideas are
There is no shortage of low-carbon ideas in Greater Montreal. Many are already technically and financially viable, but municipalities lack the capacity to scale up these ideas to achieve full impact. No matter where a good idea comes from, it’s our mission to find the right tools to amplify it. Basic tools include:
- Impact investing: We will use part of our endowment to invest in local low-carbon businesses and initiatives that generate local results.
- Grant Making: Grants help engage diverse stakeholders, build community capacity, test new ideas, and prepare proven solutions for full deployment.
- Local programs (internal initiatives): When we identify gaps, we either generate thought leadership, undertake policy research, and organize meetings, or create and pilot new technological, financial, or social solutions.
Unlock co-benefits for communities
To prevent the works of climate change, we need to change the way we move, live, work, and play. Communities only support change when they are involved in the process and see the value of the results. We will support opportunities that both reduce carbon emissions and maximize co-benefits, such as improved public health, mobility, and local job creation.
