The Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA) is spearheading an innovative initiative aimed at empowering small and diverse businesses in Illinois. The Clean Energy Contractor Incubator (CECI) Program, launched under the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) grant, is designed to prepare these businesses for the burgeoning clean energy sector in the state.
As renewable energy projects gain traction, Illinois is investing in workforce development to ensure that historically underrepresented firms can engage with this growing industry. HACIA’s CECI program is pivotal in providing essential tools, technical support, and market access to business owners for thriving in this sector.
A significant aspect of the CECI program is its focus on businesses within Illinois’ R3 zones (restore, reinvest, renew) and Environmental Justice communities. These areas have seen historical disinvestment but hold immense potential to contribute to the clean energy landscape. By channeling resources and training into these communities, HACIA and CEJA aim to ensure an equitable and inclusive transition to sustainable infrastructure, in line with HACIA’s mission to enable small and diverse businesses to succeed.
A Phased Approach to Building Capacity
The CECI program is structured in four phases:
- Component 1 (Workshops): Participants attend hybrid workshops on technical, operational, and clean energy topics.
- Component 2 (Technical Assistance): A 9-week cohort-based model offering technical training in construction drawing comprehension, estimating, project management, and bidding.
- Component 3 (Sustainability Track): Businesses choose a pathway such as LEED Certification or Solar PV training to gain expertise.
- Component 4 (Coaching): One-on-one professional coaching in areas like financing, certification, procurement, marketing, and business capacity.
Currently, Component 1 is ongoing, with businesses across Illinois participating in workshops that blend practical insights with strategic approaches.
“The HACIA Incubator Program has been a value add for my business and myself. Being able to share stories and experiences together within the cohort at a central city campus, with also the flexibility to do it hybrid to juggle work and family life, has been very beneficial to be a part of. The leaders of the program are very thoughtful as well and so far the guest speakers have been very skilled and helpful. I think this Incubator Program will grow and hopefully many graduating students and individuals interested in the renewable energy and other contracting space can take advantage of it,” says Alex Farkes, Founder of Cornview and a program participant.
Expanding Access in the Clean Energy Economy
HACIA has long been a trusted ally in helping small and diverse firms seize construction opportunities. With the aid of the CEJA grant, the organization is now extending its expertise into the realm of clean energy and sustainability.
“The CEJA grant empowers HACIA to open doors for underserved communities and position them as leaders in Illinois’ clean energy sector. In addition to helping firms compete, this initiative will ensure that small and mid-sized businesses have a seat at the table as our state builds a more sustainable and inclusive future. We’re honored to have a pivotal role in the growth of our industry,” stated Jacqueline Gomez, Executive Director of HACIA.
Strengthening Illinois’ Future
Illinois’ transition to clean energy is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about equity, opportunity, and crafting a sustainable economy that mirrors the state’s diversity. By supporting small and diverse enterprises in the clean energy industry, HACIA’s CECI program is instrumental in creating a stronger, more inclusive sector.
Learn More
For more information about the Clean Energy Contractor Incubator or to participate in the next phase, visit HACIA’s program page at: https://www.haciaworks.org/programs/clean-energy-contractor-incubator/
Original Story at www.utilitydive.com