Elevate Announces Campaign to Support Inclusive Growth for Diverse Clean Energy Contractors

CHICAGO – At an unprecedented time of visibility for the impact of the climate crisis and funding for climate action, careers in the clean energy economy are growing rapidly. Ensuring that jobs are accessible to diverse contractors is a focus of the nonprofit Elevate and of equity-driven policy and programs led by Illinois’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).

At a recent issue briefing and the announcement of a funding campaign  Envisioning our Clean Energy Future: Understanding Challenges, Sharing Opportunities   took place on July 19, 2023,  partner organizations, media and  Elevate funders were in dialogue with diverse contractors about the status of the  clean energy industry and equitable jobs.

Contractors discussed solutions and opportunities to bring clean energy to communities impacted by environmental hazards. Another priority that was discussed was mentoring the next generation.  Elevate CEO Anne Evens invited funders to join the campaign and  Elevate COO and chief Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC) Climate and Equitable Jobs Act equity negotiator Delmar Gillus shared an overview of the policy landscape and billions of dollars in public funding opportunities. Elevate directors Shirlondra Brooks and Sarah Gulezian shared details about Elevate’s existing training programs and financial support services for contractors.

Pritzker philanthropies provided the initial $5 million to support this initiative. “Elevate is unique in how the organization supports a shift to clean energy on several fronts, from policy to building construction and retrofits. We’re excited about the ability to go faster and further towards a sustainable and equitable future in partnership with Elevate,” said Andy Beideman, Chief Strategy Officer for The Pritzker Traubert Foundation.

“The contractors that participate in our programs have an entrepreneurial spirit and are excited to learn and evolve with the clean energy economy as it continues to grow,” said Elevate CEO Anne Evens. “This investment will allow us to scale up these programs and continue to address the disparities facing diverse communities in Chicago.”

Learn more about Elevate’s contractor support services at ElevateNP.org/Contractor-Workforce-Development.

About

Elevate is a nonprofit organization that works nationally and is headquartered in Chicago. Elevate designs and implements programs to ensure that everyone has clean and affordable heat, power, and water in their homes and communities – no matter who they are or where they live.