HISTORY

The Illinois Green Business Association (IGBA) originally started as a student organization at the University of Illinois. Several environmentally-active students founded a group dedicated to focusing on improving access to recycling services in Champaign. In the Fall of 2008, C.O.R.E., or Community Organized Recycling Efforts, was born. C.O.R.E. meetings brought together individuals from different backgrounds who realized the need for better recycling programs and awareness. Through C.O.R.E, we applied for and received a Building a Lasting University Environment (BLUE) grant from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Facilities and Services, Environmental Compliance department. Careful thought and research led C.O.R.E directors to discover the emergence of green business certification programs,

Recognizing the potential for Illinois, we sought to adapt and adopt a similar green business certification program. By bringing together leaders from various organizations, University administrators, and representatives from city entities, our organization continued to grow as more partnerships developed. Building better relationships working from within the business community itself has distinguished our organization from other certification programs. We have built partnerships with the University of Illinois Office of Sustainability and Office of Public Engagement, First Busey Corporation, and One Main Development to highlight a few.

IGBA has quickly grown in prominence as we continue to make strides in spreading the vision of collaboration and openness in achieving change in the business community. Our intention is to establish the IGBA as an umbrella organization consisting of multiple municipal chapters. With the continued support of our partners and local leaders who share our vision, we look forward to creating a sustainable model for green business in Illinois.