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Leveraging Resources

E3 teams typically support E3 projects financially by leveraging existing funds. E3 teams have found these funds from project participants who have a practical interest in improving the local manufacturing sector, or from federal funds already allocated and distributed to communities throughout the United States.

To ensure that funding will be available for your local E3 project, it is recommended that your E3 project coordinator research federal grant opportunities, as well as contact state and local authorities to determine the availability of funds to support an E3 project. The project coordinator can also:

  • Consult state energy and environment departments.
  • Consult local electricity utility providers, as many now have programs dedicated to local sustainability efforts and rebate programs and often see benefits of reduced industrial demand.
  • Contact the local SBDC.
  • Contact local private foundations to see if any are currently funding sustainability efforts.
  • Look for periodic announcements soliciting proposals for sustainability efforts like E3.

In addition, E3 teams commonly charge participating manufacturers a modest fee to participate in the project. The return on the manufacturer's investment, as observed in past E3 projects, is quite high and can typically be achieved within the first year of the project assessment.

Tools and Materials: