Applications open for CARE Power-Building & Engagement Learning Lab

Over the past two decades Urban Habitat has worked with our partners – including Public Advocates and Genesis – to develop proposals to reimagine the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) community-based transportation plan program. Our goal has been to put more resources in the hands of community-based organizations working at the intersection of land use, housing, transportation, and climate change.

In 2025, MTC launched the Community Action Resource Empowerment (CARE) initiative, which supports community organizations to strengthen grassroots leadership, build partnerships, and implement community-driven solutions that reduce car dependency and expand housing choices and affordability.

CARE’s Power-Building & Engagement (Pb+E) grant program recently awarded $2.5 million in grants to 26 community organizations.

Applications are now open for the Pb+E Learning Lab — a 6-month peer learning and professional development opportunity for organizations to deepen their knowledge of land use, transportation, housing and climate policy, while strengthening power-building and leadership development skills. Participants will receive support to work on a project, receive technical assistance, and learn alongside peer organizations doing similar work.

The Learning Lab will provide a $20,000 stipend per organization and requires participation in four in-person sessions and at least two virtual sessions. Up to 20 organizations will be selected.

Learn more here about the CARE program and Pb+E Learning Lab application process.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. PST on Sunday, May 31st.