Save money, get money, and green your operations:
Tools for communities and small businesses
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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.
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How to Learn About Worker-Owned Businesses
Learn what needs to go into a worker cooperative or business from start to bylaws.
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How to find out if Geothermal Is Right for You
Find out what goes into geothermal and learn about its benefits, and where to go for help.
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How to Implement and Manage a Community Solar Garden
Learn how a community solar garden can save money, overcome power outages in the area, and generate income!
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How to Secure and Promote Low-Cost Healthcare
Get a roadmap for finding low-cost healthcare resources while helping to improve overall wellness in your workplace.
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How to Purchase Renewable Energy Credits
Renewable Energy Credits come from the state, and are “green money” for those generating energy from renewables.
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How To Make Geothermal for Affordable Through Group Implementation
The biggest barriers to going geothermal are high upfront costs and navigating the digging process. This guide can help.
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How to Find Entrepreneurial Support Organizations
Learn how to decide who to ask for support as an entrepreneur, and figure out the right type of support you need.
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How to Determine the Best Green Energy for Your Business
Ease the transition from mainstream energy to clean, green energy alternatives that suit your needs perfectly.
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How to Navigate Local Green Business Support Services
Learn from other professionals, share best practices, and identify areas for collaboration.
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How to Familiarize Yourself with Energy Policies in Michigan
With lots of new policies out of Michigan regarding renewable energy and environmental justice, what do you need to know?
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How to Decide Whether Wind Energy Is Right for You
This guide points you in the right direction for deciding about which wind option will work best for your business.
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How to Identify Energy Efficiency Opportunities
There are quick wins and long-term investments that will save you energy and money. This guide helps you predict savings.
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How to Get Certified 101
An effective way for business owners to share their support of various communities is to get certified as a specialty business.
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How to Understand Key Words of a New Business
There are many acronyms and terms in the business world. This guide helps you learn some important lingo!
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How to be Certified as an SBA 8(a) Contractor
The US Small Business Administration’s SBA 8(a) contractor status can open opportunities for small businesses to secure contracts.
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How to Consider Buying a Building
Owning your building gives you more control, however owning a building may not be the best decision for all businesses.
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How to Effectively Use Digital Marketing Techniques
Learn how to create a robust digital marketing plan that resonates in Detroit and drives business growth.
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How to Enhance Customer Acquisition and Retention
You can maintain a strong customer base that guides and protects Detroit’s adaptability and growth.
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How to Leverage Local Resources for Business Growth
There are resources in Detroit for supporting business development and strategic planning.
