The Green Roma Inclusion Programme 2026 (GRIP 2026) is supported by the European Climate Foundation and builds on RESDI’s long-term work at the intersection of energy poverty, housing, and inclusive green transition in marginalized Roma communities.
GRIP 2026 continues and consolidates the programme phases implemented in 2024 and 2025. The programme runs from January to December 2026 and focuses on strengthening participation, local capacities, and institutional cooperation between municipalities, Roma communities, experts, and policy actors.
A core component of GRIP 2026 is the provision of technical support to municipalities, particularly in areas with limited access to professional expertise and EU funding. This includes support in energy audits, feasibility studies, and the preparation of development plans and grant applications related to energy efficiency, building renovation, and social housing.
The programme places strong emphasis on education and capacity building for supporting professions, including community and field workers. Through tailored training modules and community-level workshops, GRIP 2026 strengthens competencies related to energy poverty reduction, sustainable living, and community-based approaches to the green transition. These activities are complemented by the development of practical tools and manuals designed for everyday use in marginalized communities.
GRIP 2026 also introduces an Interdisciplinary Research Competition, aimed at students, researchers, and practitioners working across social, environmental, and technical disciplines. Implemented in cooperation with Slovak universities, the competition will support innovative, community-relevant research projects addressing energy poverty, housing, and social innovation. Selected projects will receive mentoring and recognition, fostering stronger links between research, practice, and community needs.
Another key element of the programme is policy and advocacy work carried out through the Aarhus Platform, which connects municipalities, Roma representatives, technical experts, academia, and civil society organisations. The Platform serves as a space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and joint advocacy, ensuring that the experiences of marginalized communities inform national and European climate and social policies.
Through GRIP 2026, RESDI aims to contribute to long-term, sustainable solutions that reduce energy poverty, strengthen local leadership, and promote a just and inclusive green transition in Slovakia and the wider Central European region.