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 people together from different backgrounds who all realized the need for better recycling programs in Champaign. The directors applied for and received a Building a Lasting University Environment (BLUE) grant from the University of Illinois’ department of Environmental Compliance. Careful thought and research led C.O.R.E directors to discover the emergence of successful green business certification programs on the West coast.

We sought to adapt and adopt a similar green business certification program for Illinois. By bringing together leaders from various organizations, the University of Illinois, and representatives from surrounding cities, the organization continued to grow as more partnerships developed. We have partnered with the University of Illinois’ Office of Sustainability and Office of Public Engagement, First Busey Corporation, and One Main Development, and continually seek to build and expand our positive relationships in the business community.

IGBA has quickly grown and we continue to make strides in spreading the vision of collaboration and openness in achieving change. With the continued support of our partners and local leaders who share our vision, we look forward to creating a sustainable model and setting the bar for green business practices in Illinois.