Growing Sustainability Together: NY Sun Works & Bregal Investments

Since 2018, NY Sun Works has been proud to partner with Bregal Investments to bring hands-on science and sustainability education directly into 8 New York City classrooms. Through this strategic partnership, students gain access to Hydroponic Classrooms that transform science learning from abstract concepts into lived, tangible experience.

Each year, Bregal’s support helps ensure that hundreds of students can engage in project-based sustainability science—learning how food is grown, how ecosystems function, and how human choices impact the environment. Since the partnership began, thousands of students have been reached through NY Sun Works Hydroponic Classrooms, building curiosity, confidence, and climate literacy at a formative age.

Bregal’s Impact: Where Capital Meets Commitment

Bregal’s partnership goes beyond funding. Each year, Bregal team members roll up their sleeves to help assemble and install hydroponic systems in NYC public schools. It’s detailed, physical work—measuring, lifting, aligning systems, and ensuring everything is ready for students and teachers to use.

As Natalie Kiss from Bregal shared during a recent volunteer day:

“It was really amazing to get to come and build something related to the work I do around sustainability—but in a way that’s so tangible. You can actually see the impact taking shape.“

By the end of the day, volunteers can literally see the systems they’ve built—vertical towers ready to grow basil, lettuce, and herbs that students will harvest themselves. That immediacy is what makes the experience so meaningful.

Philanthropy that sustains learning all year long

Bregal’s philanthropic investment sponsors each hydroponic classroom for the full school year. This funding supports:

• Standards-aligned sustainability science curriculum
• Teacher training and ongoing technical support
• Installation and maintenance of hydroponic systems
• The Harvest Program, which connects classroom learning to students’ families and communities

This comprehensive support ensures that classrooms don’t just receive equipment—but a fully supported, high-quality learning experience.

Why hands-on sustainability education matters

NY Sun Works’ impact data consistently shows that immersive, project-based learning changes how students engage with science. After a year in a Hydroponic Classroom:

• The vast majority of teachers report increased student engagement and science understanding
• Students demonstrate stronger awareness of environmental and climate issues
• Young people are more likely to see themselves as scientists, problem-solvers, and environmental stewards 

Hydroponic Classrooms don’t just teach science—they help students reconnect with learning, with food, and with their role in shaping a more sustainable future.

Corporate Partners Help NY Sun Works Grow

Committed corporate partners like Bregal are essential for NY Sun Works. Their support provides the two things we need most to grow our impact: engaged people and reliable funding. Together, these resources allow us to expand into more schools and reach more students each year.

There are many meaningful ways companies can partner with NY Sun Works, including:

Employee Engagement & Volunteering

Corporate teams can participate in hands-on volunteer days assembling hydroponic systems, support harvest events, or mentor students during workforce development and career-readiness programming. These experiences are collaborative, purpose-driven, and deeply rewarding.

Program & Classroom Sponsorship

Corporate gifts can fund new Hydroponic Classrooms, sponsor schools for an entire year, or support curriculum, teacher training, and maintenance—ensuring long-term success.

Conference & Event Partnership

Companies can sponsor and volunteer NY Sun Works’ annual Youth Conference and other events that celebrate student research, innovation, and leadership in sustainability science.

Join Us in Growing the Future

Bregal’s partnership exemplifies what’s possible when corporate commitment meets community-centered education. Together, we’re not just growing plants—we’re growing confident learners, future scientists, and environmental innovators.

If your company is interested in creating tangible, lasting impact in NYC schools, we invite you to explore partnering with NY Sun Works. Learn more here. Let’s grow something meaningful—together.