Save money, get money, and green your operations:

Tools for communities and small businesses

  • Are you thinking about starting a business or nonprofit? There is new money available right now to help businesses start and grow -- especially for construction, renewable energy, home improvement, support services, and other businesses that can help the green energy transition. These how-to guides answer the most important questions you have, like where to get funding, how to find workers, how to locate customers, and more.

    To use these guides, simply click on the subject you’re interested in, scroll through the guides, and click “Read Now.” You may print, download or share these guides at will.

1. BUSINESS STRATEGY AND PLANNING:

  • How to Learn About Worker-Owned Businesses

    Learn what needs to go into a worker cooperative or business from start to bylaws.

    READ GUIDE

    READ GUIDE
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2. FUNDING YOUR BUSINESS:

  • How to Get Funding from a CDFI

    Community Development Funding Institutions can offer financial knowledge and community connection. Find out how.

    READ GUIDE

    READ GUIDE »
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3. HR, BENEFITS AND WORKFORCE STRATEGIES:

  • Open Book Management

    How to Implement Open Book Management (OBM)

    Sharing financial information with your employees gives them a sense of ownership and contribution.

    READ GUIDE

    READ GUIDE »
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4. SAVE OR EARN MONEY WITH GREEN ENERGY:

  • How to Leverage IRA Financing as an Appliance Contractor

    The Inflation Reduction Act wants homes and businesses to be energy-efficient, and appliance contractors play a part.

    READ GUIDE

    Click here
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5. SUPPLIER AND CONTRACTOR RESOURCES:

  • How to Find a Contractor to Install a Heat Pump

    How to Find a Contractor to Install a Heat Pump

    Updated heat pumps can lead to energy savings for small businesses.

    READ GUIDE

    READ GUIDE »
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