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March is here – along with (hopefully) warmer weather. This month, we’re focusing on how your business can embrace environmentally-friendly resources, such as Cook County programs including Solar Synergy, BRITE, LeadCare and more! Plus, discover financing opportunities for small businesses in “green” construction trades in this month’s Webinar Wednesday.

We’re ready for spring - and you probably are too. No matter the weather, look to The Source for support!

Introducing Cook County Solar Synergy

Is your contracting business ready to enter the growing solar-installation market? The Source is here to help!

Cook County Government recently launched Solar Synergy and has partnered with The Source to provide entrepreneurs with the resources and expertise they need to enter and succeed in the solar-installation sector.

Builders Avenue, a new Business Support Organization within The Source network, empowers construction entrepreneurs with skill-building to help them thrive in this dynamic industry. Whether you're a contractor seeking to formalize your business processes, or a rapidly-growing construction firm needing to upgrade your existing processes, Builders Avenue offers expertise on topics like bid estimating, financial management and access-to-funding opportunities. 

March Webinar Wednesday:

Financing Solutions for Clean Energy Entrepreneurs

We're proud to partner with Builders Avenue - a Source Business Support Organization - alongside Elevate to bring you the March Webinar Wednesday: Financing Solutions for Clean Energy Entrepreneurs.

Discover:

• Lines of credit available for contractors in solar and “green” construction trades.
• Local resources for capital.

Register today to discover funding resources to help propel your business forward!

March 26

10 - 11 AM 

Businesses Reducing Impact on the Environment (BRITE) Program

Cook County’s Businesses Reducing Impact on the Environment (BRITE) program helps eligible small businesses - such as auto repair shops, drycleaners and food and beverage manufacturers - reduce pollution through free on-site assessments and subsequent grant funding. The program provides businesses that implement recommendations with a maximum grant award of up to $300,000. 

For more information about the BRITE program and to review eligibility requirements, click here or email BRITE@cookcountyil.gov.

Cook County Sun and Save

Income-eligible Cook County homeowners may qualify for a no-cost solar-panel system with the Cook County Sun and Save Program! Cook County Government has partnered with Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC), a collaborative effort between the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and 360 Energy Group, to establish Cook County Sun and Save, allocating over $100 million in funding to support a clean environment for all.



Cook County Sun and Save installs solar-panel systems at no cost for income-qualified residences and homeowners in Cook County, as well as some related minor roof and electrical repairs on eligible owner-occupied homes. To learn more about household eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit SEDAC's website here. For general program questions, email sunandsave@sedac.org.

Upcoming events

Are you a licensed child care provider located in suburban Cook County? 

LeadCare Cook County supports a safe and healthy learning environment for children by offering free lead service line replacement.

When you enroll in LeadCare Cook County, you pay nothing to have your home inspected for lead pipelines, and, if found, for a licensed plumber to replace your line. LeadCare Cook County's services also help you comply with lead testing and mitigation requirements set by the Department of Children and Family Services.

Cook County Arts - Creative Placemaking Program and Ecosystem Assessment!

Cook County is thrilled to announce the Cook County County Arts Creative Placemaking program, designed to support transformative, community-driven creative projects. This initiative offers grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 to nonprofit organizations that are leading collaborative community-based teams to improve the quality of life in suburban communities. In addition to financial support, recipients will receive hands-on project assistance from LISC, a leading organization in both national and local creative placemaking efforts.

Suburban small businesses are encouraged to get involved in proposed projects, which can focus on the creation of public art, improved commercial corridors, re-imagined public spaces and more!

Applications are now being accepted through April 7, 2025. Want to learn more? Visit the Cook County Arts website and register for upcoming information sessions, office hours with LISC or visit our partners at the Arts Alliance Help Desk for one-on-one support.

Cook County Arts is also leading an ecosystem assessment of the arts and culture sector in suburban communities. This effort includes a survey in which business owners, artists and residents who live or work in the suburbs can share their input! The deadline to complete the survey is April 21. Visit the Arts Alliance Illinois website to participate today!