What We're Doing
The Adaptation Accelerator mobilizes global partnerships, technical expertise, and climate finance to develop investment-ready, community-based adaptation solutions.
In 2025, the program secured over $300K in external funding, piloted two Mini-Accelerators in Rio de Janeiro and Hong Kong, and laid the groundwork for over $100M in blended finance for nature-based adaptation projects. With more than 50 global technical experts engaged in workshops and action planning, the initiative is shaping real pathways for urban resilience and climate equity.
The Accelerator has already onboarded two urban areas across three countries, directly serving over 10,000 vulnerable residents. Its efforts are projected to sequester over 4,000 tons of carbon through ecosystem restoration and avoided losses.
Building on the foundation laid by the Resilience Accelerator (2018–2022)—which catalyzed over $10M in implementation funding, shifted more than 15 policies, and reached 1,500+ stakeholders—the new model continues to link design, research, and finance to drive place-based climate solutions.
Impact Metrics
At A Glance
Duration: 2024–Present | Location: Rio de Janeiro, Hong Kong, Belize, Miami, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Ningaloo
External Partners:
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Internal Columbia University Engagement:
4 Climate School Centers, 1 Global Center, 10 Researchers, 5 Interdisciplinary Faculty, Students and alumni from the MA in Climate & Society and GSAPP
