Spotlight: Green Business Resources

A variety of resources are available to help businesses ‘go green’, which can reduce their bottom line and respond to consumer demand. This month we are highlighting two top programs – the Green Business Certification program and the CALeVIP electric vehicle charging funding, which is accepting applications through July 31, 2023. An ongoing list of green business resources can be found on the ‘Sustainability at Work‘ section of the City’s Sustainability website.

The California Green Business Network

The California Green Business Network leads the state and nation in working with small to medium sized businesses to create a vibrant green economy. Led by a coalition of cities and counties, the Green Business Network contributes by helping to make communities healthier and more livable while also conserving resources and saving money.

Being a Certified Green Business is the clearest way to show your community and customers that you care about sustainability. It shows that you are committed to taking action to conserve resources and prevent pollution in both the facility and operations. It also means that your business complies with environmental regulations in the areas of waste, energy, water, pollution prevention, and air quality.

Customers increasingly want to patronize businesses that are doing their part for the environment. A recent survey of California Green Businesses reports that 42% saw an increase in business since receiving their recognition. Additionally, California Green Businesses are promoted on websites, in e-newsletters, in the press, in online and print advertising, at promotional events and mixers, and by displaying the window decal and program seal on marketing materials.

Learn more about how to certify as a green business on the Green Business Network website.

California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP)

The California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP) provides funding for installing publicly available EV charging stations to support the rapid adoption of electric vehicles across California. CALeVIP is a key part of the state’s plan to efficiently and equitably electrify the transportation sector and reduce pollution that harms the environment and human health.

CALeVIP 1.0 will stop accepting new applications for Level 2 and DC fast chargers on July 31, 2023 for the Alameda County Incentive Project. Note: Applying before the deadline does not guarantee your application will be funded since applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and some projects have waitlists. The final date for applications to be in Funds Reserved status is August 31, 2023.

Applications in these projects must meet all requirements for Funds Reserved status by August 31, 2023, to be eligible for funding and applicants will be notified of when this status is reached.

Unused CALeVIP 1.0 funds from the California Energy Commission will be redistributed to waitlisted DC fast charger applications.

Visit the Alameda County Incentive Project webpage to apply or learn more about available funding, eligible charger types and other requirements.