CECI Program FAQ

The Clean Energy Contractor Incubator (CECI) Program helps small and mid sized construction businesses grow in the clean energy field. This page answers common questions about the program, including eligibility, training, mentoring, and how to get started.

FAQ

What types of support does the program provide?

Training workshops on clean energy procurement process, entering the clean energy space, access to capital, certifications and registrations, etc.
Personalized business development coaching.
Mentorship from established clean energy contractors and industry experts.
Networking opportunities with developers, utilities, and governments agencies.
Access to resources such as bonding support and funding opportunities.

Support with bid applications.

How long is the program?

The incubator has three (3) components that run from August 2025 to March 2026. Participants may choose which components to participate in. The schedule includes group workshops, one-on-one coaching sessions, and networking events.

Component 1: Workshops | Now-March 2026 | A la Carte, drop in, virtual sessions

Workshops cover topics related to certifications, procurement, clean energy sector, funding/business finance, and marketing

Component 2: 9 Week Small Business Skills Training | October-December 2025 | Hybrid In-Person & Virtual | IWE South Campus | 2 Cohorts before the program ends in March 2026 (Each class will be 4 hours in length twice a week)

The Small Business Skills Curriculum covers topics such as construction drawings, estimating, project management, bidding, and procurement.

Component 3: Sustainability Cohort Module | January-March 2026 | Hybrid In-Person & Virtual | IWE South Campus

This cohort-based training focuses on topics related to clean energy and green construction. Participants can choose from tracks covering LEED Certification, Solar Panel Installation, PHIUS Certification, with more to be announced.

Throughout the 2nd and 3rd components, participants will have access to one-on-one coaching with experts from the fields covered in workshops and cohort training.

Do I need to participate in all 3 components to successfully complete the program?

No. This program is designed to address what an individual business may need. HACIA understands that each business has different needs and has worked to ensure diverse programming for all levels; while some businesses may participate in all 3 components, some may only find it necessary to participate in components 1 and 3. Participants will sign up for each course/component individually so that this program can be best tailored to their needs.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. This program is made possible through funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) as part of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).

What are the benefits for participating businesses?

By the end of the program, participants will:

Be better prepared to bid on clean energy projects and get assistance applying for these projects
Have stronger business systems and certifications in place
Expand their professional networks
Gain visibility with prime contractors and public agencies
Participants will receive support in pursuing business certifications (e.g., MBE/WBE/DBE), prequalification for public bids, and may complete industry-recognized training courses.

Do I need to already be working in clean energy to join the program?

No. The incubator is designed to help contractors enter or transition into the clean energy space. Experience in the construction or related trades is helpful, but prior clean energy project work is not required.

Who are HACIA’s program partners?

HACIA has partnered with Industry and Subject Matter Experts to provide comprehensive training and skills development to program participants. Partners include but are not limited to:

Federation of Women Contractors

Midwest Business Consulting

Punch List Consulting

Institute for Workforce Education

What if I am not a business owner?

You are still eligible to participate in the program if you meet any of the following eligibility requirements – please scroll up to the top of the page for the eligibility.

What kinds of businesses are ideal candidates for this program?

Ideal participants include construction, electrical, mechanical, solar, and energy efficiency contractors interested in entering or growing in the clean energy sector.

What types of clean energy projects will participants be prepared for?

Projects may include solar panel installations, energy efficiency retrofits, EV charging stations and public or private sector energy upgrades on buildings.

How can I stay involved after the program ends?

Alumni will gain access to an ongoing support network, access to other HACIA programs to professionally develop, and invitations to future bid opportunities and clean energy events.

What if I don’t get selected this time? Can I reapply?

Yes! We encourage you to reapply in future cohorts and will provide feedback on how to strengthen your application if requested.

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