How to Get a Grant for an Eco-Friendly Green Business in Illinois

Illinois has many state-sponsored "green" programs.

With an increase in public awareness about the benefits of eco-friendly construction, energy and material usage, more businesses are becoming interested in "going green." Many states, including Illinois, have created state-run initiatives to support both new and established businesses in starting eco-friendly practices. As a result, Illinois' government has many grant-funded opportunities available to businesses. To secure a green grant in Illinois, there are several steps that businesses must take.

Things You'll Need

• Green initiative
• Grant proposal

Instructions

1. Create a business or nonprofit organization. Your business can be any structure, such as a sole proprietorship, limited liability company or corporation, as long as it is registered with the appropriate local and, or, state government authorities. If you want to be classified as a nonprofit or 501 (c) (3), you must file and receive permission for this status with the Internal Revenue Service. State and local government may also qualify for grants, however, grants are not awarded to individuals.

2. Create a "green" idea. Your idea should be based on the type of operations and, or, business that your company conducts and have a direct benefit to the public. Ideas that use the development or expansion of renewable energy sources, cost -effective energy use, large-scale recycling, land preservation or other forms of eco-friendly practices are those most commonly available for grant funding.

3. Check Green.Illinois.gov for grant opportunities that match your idea. This is the primary resource for "green" grant funding in Illinois. It includes grants for a variety of resources, including both state and private agencies like the Illinois Green Economy network, the Illinois Clean Energy Foundation and the Kresge Foundation. Some grants are typically awarded annually to qualifying organizations and businesses. Grant amounts depend on the type of grant being sought.

4. Create a grant proposal. The grant-awarding organization uses your proposal to determine whether you qualify for a grant. A good grant proposal should detail your business's annual budget and how any grant money received would be used. Innovation, commitment to community and a clearly defined plan for your "green" initiative should give your business the best possible chance of receiving a grant.

Tips & Warnings

• Grants are often awarded annually, so meeting your submission deadlines should be a priority, especially if you are applying for multiple grants.

• Only verifiable grants resources, like those sponsored by Illinois should be used.

References

• "Rockford Register Star": Illinois Businesses Urged to Seek Green Energy Grants; March 2011
• Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation: Program Areas
• Green.Illinois.gov: Funding Opportunities