Clean Energy Contractor Incubator Program

The Clean Energy Contractor Incubator Program is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and is authorized under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. The program is designed to expand participation in Illinois’ clean energy economy by supporting small, equity-eligible contractors and businesses that have historically faced barriers to entry. These barriers include limited access to capital, lack of technical readiness, and structural inequities affecting communities such as Environmental Justice Communities and R3 Areas. The program aligns with statewide workforce and economic development strategies by strengthening contractor capacity and promoting inclusive growth within the clean energy sector. The primary purpose of the program is to provide a comprehensive suite of services that prepare small businesses to compete for and execute clean energy projects. These services include technical assistance, mentorship, and business development support such as accounting systems, bonding, insurance guidance, permitting assistance, and access to capital. Participants are also connected with larger contractors, unions, and developers, enabling them to engage in subcontracting opportunities and broader project pipelines. By building these capabilities, the program aims to increase the number of qualified contractors and ensure long-term sustainability for participating businesses. Funding supports the operation of incubator hubs that deliver these services. Allowable uses include personnel, fringe benefits, travel, supplies, contractual services, and indirect costs consistent with federal and state guidelines. Funds may also support training, networking events, and business support infrastructure. However, capital expenditures for general-purpose equipment, buildings, and land are not allowable. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this program, reducing barriers for applicants and allowing organizations to focus resources on service delivery and participant outcomes. Eligibility is limited to community-based organizations selected by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Accredited public colleges or universities may apply only if they function as community-based organizations and provide direct services aligned with statutory requirements. Government entities, for-profit organizations, individuals, and foreign entities are not eligible to apply as lead applicants, although for-profit entities may participate as subcontractors or program beneficiaries. Applicants must demonstrate strong community ties and experience serving populations facing barriers, including individuals with low educational attainment, prior justice involvement, or limited English proficiency. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Grant Management System. Required components include a Uniform Grant Application, a Uniform Budget Template, and all program-specific attachments outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity. Applications are reviewed through a merit-based process using published scoring criteria, and awards are prioritized based on geographic coverage and regional needs. Selected applicants receive a Notice of State Award and must comply with all grant administration requirements before beginning performance. The program operates on a rolling basis, with applications accepted until available funds are depleted. The anticipated period of performance is 12 months, with the possibility of two additional 12-month extensions based on performance and funding availability, for a total of up to three years. Award decisions are typically made within approximately 60 days of application submission. Program performance is monitored through quarterly reporting requirements that track business growth, contracts secured, workforce outcomes, and participant demographics. Overall, the Clean Energy Contractor Incubator Program represents a strategic investment in workforce development, economic equity, and clean energy expansion. By combining targeted support services with strong accountability measures and partnerships across workforce and industry ecosystems, the program seeks to create a more inclusive and competitive clean energy market in Illinois.

Emphasize equity-focused service delivery; demonstrate strong community partnerships; provide clear metrics for contractor outcomes; align proposal with regional coverage priorities