FAQ
How does a business become certified?
A business gets started by contacting the staff of IGBA for an initial consultation. Staff will go through the necessary steps in order to be certified and explain the program. IGBA Staff will guide you through program checklists to determine what actions are needed to become certified. Staff will then review needed green management practices and recommend grants, incentives, and other forms of assistance to aid through the process. Staff can assist in developing an implementation plan for a business owner by setting up tangible dates and benchmarks to help reach the business’ goals.
What makes a certified business different from another business that isn’t certified?
A green business is an environmental leader within the community that encourages environmentally efficient operations and sustainability within the workplace. A green business not only benefits economically from improving efficiency, but will have a marketing edge over other businesses within the community. Green business certification will give recognition to businesses where praise for these efforts is due.
What are the benefits of being green business certified?
A green business has a marketing edge over other businesses in a community because the green business demonstrates its responsibility through action. Green business certification validates those efforts with a transparent and thorough process. There are also cost savings for the business associated with being more energy efficient, a benefit in itself! Anyone interested in finding out more about certification can do so from the educational resources offered on our website.
What types of educational opportunities will you offer?
Public education is an integral part of the IGBA’s mission. We will hold bi-monthly or monthly general educational programming centered on the topic of sustainability. Topics may range from the latest green technologies, easy ways to implement sustainability in everyday life, to spotlighting how businesses in the community are taking action. We will build green job training and retrofitting programs to directly engage the public in playing a part in implementing green management practices within their communities.
When can I get started with my business or with educational training?
The Illinois Green Business Association is currently in the pilot phase of the program. Once this pilot phase is over, we will open membership to the rest of the business community in Illinois.
Can I subscribe to your newsletter for more information?
Absolutely. We will be sending out a monthly newsletter with updates on the program and notify the public of any educational opportunities. Please refer to our website where you can sign up.
Where can I contact your organization? How can I get involved?
Our contact information is available directly from our website, or you can e-mail one of our Staff right from the Contact Us page. We look forward to working with individuals interested in furthering sustainable education and business certification in Illinois.