Going Green with Grant Money

With the green revolution in full swing, there is plenty of grant money out there to make you, your business, or your school green. If you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint or widen your customer base to include the growing number of environmentally conscious consumers, grant money can help make the transition a little easier on your wallet.

A grant is a pretty special thing. By definition, it means granting a request or bestowing aid and also denotes a concession of ability, acknowledging the brilliance of something or someone. Unlike a loan, a grant truly is free money that never has to be paid back or repaid by some other kind of tendered debt.

One of the best resources to find grant money to make your business greener is Community Conservation Enterprises (CCE), where businesses are granted funds when they demonstrate their ability to protect natural resources and promote sustainable communities. Another great resource is the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which funds energy-efficient improvements for businesses. There are even grants available for individuals who want to start a green daycare center.

Local companies are also donating grant money to the green cause. Within your community, there may be several companies offering grants. Many local publishers provide grants to aspiring green authors, and there are a plethora of companies willing to shell out a grant in search of new green technology.

Many state governments are offering grant programs to help prepare workers for green jobs. Individuals can be trained in renewable energy and energy-efficient programs that give them the necessary skills to work in such sectors.

Non-profit organizations also offer grant money for a wide variety of things including funding for science projects that encompass sustainable and renewable technologies and other projects that envision solutions for environmental problems. Dozens of non-profit organizations provide grants for local businesses that want to increase their green product supply.

Take the time to research grants available in your area for your cause. The sky is the limit when it comes to green grant money. Businesses, state and federal governments, non-profit organizations, and other institutions are willing to give you free money to pursue your green dreams. The research can take time, but the rewards can be bountiful.