The Regenerative Communities Fund (RCF), launched in 2024 by ECOLISE, is the first fund specifically focused on supporting regenerative communities in Europe.
The RCF is a strategic long-term initiative aiming to catalyse community-led initiatives (CLIs) on ecosocial just transition in Europe, through funding, capacity building, and collaboration opportunities.
Why “Regenerative”?
Because we need to go beyond sustainability. Regeneration is about healing—restoring ecosystems, strengthening communities, and reimagining economies based on care and cooperation. It tackles the root causes of climate and ecological breakdown by fostering systems that are life-enhancing, inclusive, and equitable. Regenerative approaches help communities move from extractive models to ones that replenish and restore the social and ecological fabric of their territories.
Why “Communities”?
Because community-led initiatives (CLIs) are at the heart of the transition. They have proven their ability to reduce ecological footprints, foster lasting behavioural change, and build local resilience. Since 2014, ECOLISE has been catalysing, connecting, and supporting grassroots climate and sustainability action—reaching over 1 million people through ecovillages, transition groups, permaculture projects, community energy, and the solidarity economy.
Why a “Fund”?
Because many CLIs lack access to the resources they need to thrive. This is especially true for marginalised communities. The RCF addresses this gap by providing seed funding, training, and support to spark and scale impactful local initiatives. It also strengthens a growing ecosystem of National Hubs, Demonstrators, and Pathfinder communities, and leverages existing networks to reach and support those often left behind.
What’s Happening Now
Five National Hubs have been selected in early 2025: 3R HUB (Croatia), Jalotus (Finland), Collectif pour une Transition Citoyenne (France), Re.RuRal Ecosystem (Portugal), and ECORREDES (Spain). Fifteen Demonstrators have been selected across the above-mentioned countries and announced in December 2025. In addition, the network has recently expanded with 100 inspiring Pathfinder Communities (check here and here).
For now, no further RCF Calls for Proposals are planned. Our focus is on strengthening the growing RCF ecosystem and exploring opportunities to take the fund into its next phase.
We are actively looking for partners and funders who share our vision and are interested in supporting the continued development and expansion of the Regenerative Communities Fund, enabling more community-led initiatives across Europe to access resources, build capacity, and connect with a wider regenerative movement.
We are also training 40 Community Climate Coaches to equip local leaders with the skills and tools needed to guide transformative action on the ground.
Join us as a funder of the Regenerative Communities Fund!
By contributing, you’re not just supporting a program—you’re investing in the future of Europe’s communities and our planet. Together, we can create a regenerative, equitable, and resilient future.
Let’s amplify impact, empower communities, and drive systemic change!
Do not hesitate to contact us at rcf@ecolise.eu, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
