The New York Climate Exchange is a new nonprofit designed to accelerate climate solutions through a diverse coalition of partners from academia, the private sector, and community organizations. Anchored by Stony Brook University and headquartered on Governors Island, The Exchange delivers impactful education, cutting-edge research, world-class convenings, and scalable technology solutions—extending its reach and influence into NYC and across the globe.

The Exchange’s future home on Governors Island was designed by Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026. Collaborative projects, including research initiatives, programs with community groups, workforce training programs, and K-12 outreach will begin earlier.

New construction, renovation, and operational costs for The Exchange are expected to be $700 million. About $150 million in funding will come from previously allocated city capital funding. Another $100 million will be donated by the Simons Foundation. Bloomberg Philanthropies has committed to an additional $50 million toward the project. The Exchange and its partners will raise another ~$400 million and cover operational costs of The Exchange. There will be no additional cost to New Yorkers.

The Exchange's partner organizations were selected based on a shared vision and commitment to social justice, economic opportunity, and world-class research. We sought partners with diverse areas of experience and complementary skill sets in order to strengthen our impact. Our partner network includes interdisciplinary experts, thought leaders, and decision-makers, including the top minds in climate science, environmental justice, and policy.

The Exchange serves as the anchor institution for the Trust for Governors Island's Center for Climate Solutions. At full build, the Center for Climate Solutions initiative is expected to create approximately 7,000 jobs and approximately $1 billion in economic impact for New York City.

The Exchange offers an opportunity to amplify and expand the climate and sustainability research already being done at its partner institutions. It also plans to host a Climate Solutions Fellows program for graduate student and a variety of job training and skill-building programs to help develop the green workforce. There will also be opportunities for teachers, researchers, artists, community organizers, and others to engage with the mission of The Exchange.

The kind of research we undertake will evolve over time as we work to address the needs, ideas, and challenges faced by those communities most impacted by climate change. Cities are foundational to our work given the role they play in climate challenges and their solutions. By working across public, private, and academic silos, The Exchange is uniting climate leaders to accelerate climate solutions in New York City and beyond. 

Governors Island is only reachable by ferry. Visit govisland.org/ferry for schedules and tickets.

The Exchange will begin offering programs and activities before construction begins in 2026. Sign up below to receive news and updates about The Exchange.