Kless Sustainability Fund
Students at the University of Montana created the Kless Revolving Energy Loan Fund (formerly referred to as KRELF) which allows students to propose projects that save energy on campus using money generated through a $6 student sustainability fee.
Projects funded by the Kless Sustainability Fund must demonstrate quantifiable savings and a return on investment. Future energy cost savings must be used to repay the Kless Sustainability Fund, allowing the fund to be self-sustaining over time. Funded projects will reduce annual operating expenses, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy costs.
Kless Funding Awarded for 2024
Congrats to those who have been awarded Kless Funding for Spring 2024!
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Eco-Friendly Period Products in the ASUM Food Pantry
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Elliot Villages Bike Parking
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Water Bottle Fill Station in the Fine Arts Building, Grizzly Stadium, and Aber or Jesse Hall
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EV Charger at Flathead Lake Bio Station
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Solar-Powered Battery at the Blue Mountain Observatory
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Garden Updates to the ASUM Preschool and Iron Griz Gardens
2023 Projects
PAST PROJECTSHAVE AN IDEA FOR A KLESS PROJECT?
Kless Sustainability Fund proposals are a great opportunity to develop grant writing and research experience and to learn more about the energy and resource footprint of the University of Montana! Not sure where to begin? Visit our Overview Page.
Our formal application deadline has closed until Spring 2025. But, the committee takes rolling proposals under special circumstances. Please work with the Sustainability Engagement Coordinator if you feel you could fit under a special circumstance.
Why is it called the Kless Fund?
The University of Montana’s Kless Sustainability Fund was established in honor of the late student and UM sustainability advocate, Sonny Kless. He worked to spearhead one of the nation's first university funds to support sustainability and energy savings on campus. Learn more about him and the legacy he left on the page titled In Honor of Sonny Kless.