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Loss of State Funding

California Green Business Network: Loss of State Funding

Due to the significant budget deficit, California Green Business Network (CAGBN) will not receive funding from the State of California for FY 2024-25. Consequently, there will be some noticeable changes in the benefits that our partners and businesses receive. These impacts include the following:

1. We can no longer offer businesses state sponsored rebates;
2. We can no longer work with businesses in areas that do not have a locally funded Green Business Program.

Despite these undesirable impacts, businesses can still access valuable resources and connections through our network. For example, many businesses can receive rebates through other programs with utility or corporate-sponsored programs, such as the Intuit Efficiency Mini-grants (additional funding coming in August 2024!).

While we cannot provide additional funding to enhance local Green Business Programs this year, CAGBN remains committed to supporting sustainable business practices. We are actively seeking new funding opportunities to continue benefiting businesses. If you know of an out of area business that is interested in certification, please contact info@greenbusinessca.org.

How You Can Help

As a business owner and sustainability champion, you can take the following actions to help support our efforts:

1. Contact your local Senators and Assemblymembers

• Your Senators and Assembly Members like to talk to local business owners and managers like you! Take a moment to connect with them and let them know about your business. It would help us if you could advocate for the CAGBN and request their support for our funding.
• Assemblymember Muratsuchi and Senator Durazo championed our budget request this year.
• Use this link to find your representative.
• Here is some language for a quick email or phone call: “Dear [Senator or Assembly Member ____]. I’m contacting you today because I understand the State is not providing funding for the California Green Business Network. This nonprofit provided resources and assistance to help us operate more sustainably while also saving money.  They are a critical resource to businesses in our State. Please consider adding them to the future years’ budget.”

2. Involve Local Leaders

• If setting up an in-person meeting, inform your local coordinator and consider inviting council members and local leaders.

3. Donate or Become a Corporate Sponsor

• If your business is in a position to donate, please do so here.
• Explore our corporate sponsorship packages to connect with potential clients, position your company as a leader in sustainable practices, and showcase your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and positive social impact. Email us to learn more.

For additional questions, please contact your local coordinator.

Our impact over the Past Two and a Half Years

With supplemental funding from the CalEPA, we have helped businesses across California operate more sustainably, save money, reduce their environmental impact, and gain local and state recognition. In response to challenges faced by small businesses, we provided financial resources, fostered a sense of community, and strengthened California’s green economy. Learn more about our achievements by downloading our 2023 Impact Report.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to sustainability. Together, we can overcome this challenge and continue making a positive impact.