HACIA’s Clean Energy Contractor Incubator Program (CECI), funded by the CEJA Illinois Clean Energy Contractor Incubator Program, is designed for contractors and professional services construction companies ready to take their business to another level and enter the booming clean energy sector.
Remember: you may also attend separate no-cost workshops on an unlimited basis.
Join us for an online discussiion all about bonding and insurance in the construction world, focusing on insurance nuances for clean energy contractors. Whether you’re new or experienced, our industry expert friends from Noriega Risk Partners will break down what you really need to know to stay protected and keep your projects running smoothly. Don’t miss out on this easygoing session that’ll clear up all your questions!
This class will guide you through key elements, structures, and language to write your own capabilities statement and use it!
This class will guide you through key elements, structures, and language to make your statement stand out to potential clients and contractors, effectively communicating your unique value and building credibility for contracting opportunities. Perfect for business owners looking to enhance their pitch and win more work. Participants will think about their core competencies, past performance, differentiators, and company data. Instructed by Bernard Dier, Midwest Business Consulting.
Join HACIA, Wintrust, and their partners from Advantage Illinois, the Illinois Finance Authority, and the Illinois Climate Bank for a virtual workshop where you will learn from the experts how these important programs can help you realize your business goals and potential. The State of Illinois has set up these funding programs for small businesses like yours as mechanisms to access low cost capital, particularly in the fields of clean energy, green construction, solar, and others. Representatives from Wintrust Community Bank and these funds will present how to qualify, apply for, and implement capital for sustainable business practices. Workshops presented by Wintrust Community Bank, Advantage Illinois, Illinois Climate Bank, and Illinois Finance Authority.
IDOL strives for compliance over being punitive, so it is important for contractors to understand their obligations on the Prevailing Wage Act before you bid on projects. This seminar will cover the history of the federal and state prevailing wage laws, why the law is in place, public body responsibilities, and how to file certified payrolls. IDOL will answer questions after the seminar presentation is complete. Workshop presented by the Illinois Department of Labor.
This workshop dives deep into the real-world skills that turn conversations into opportunities — helping you strengthen your professional presence and form authentic relationships that drive growth. Through guided discussions and practical exercises, participants will learn strategies to break the ice, communicate with confidence, and cultivate meaningful industry connections. Gain insights into how to make lasting impressions, build credibility, and transform networking from a challenge into a powerful personal and professional asset. Workshop Presented by Punch List Consulting & Visual Designs.
A 3-Part “Lunch Break” Virtual Workshop Series covering Clean Energy 101 for Contractors across the building industry. This series hosted by the Federation of Women Contractors (FWC) in collaboration with the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA) is designed to equip businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the evolving landscape of clean energy projects. This virtual series comprises three comprehensive workshops focusing on key aspects of scaling or transitioning into the clean energy sector. Workshops presented by Pepper Construction, Illinois Shines, and Exelon Energy.
Understanding the Procurement and Bidding Process will consist of three 3-hour sessions which will discuss what procurement is, the most common process used by units of government and businesses to procure goods and services, and how to showcase your goods / services in a professional manner. This course will also cover various registrations and certifications, such as the BEP/VBE, BidBuy, SBSP, BOE registration, IL/DHR, etc. This course will benefit participants by helping them navigate the procurement process and learn helpful tips to gaining a competitive edge when bidding.
Unleash your powerhouse potential with our specialized training, where a seasoned communication coach will lead engaging sessions to boost your confidence in public speaking. This workshop equips participants with essential skills tailored for success in various professional scenarios, including bid meetings, contractor networking, and telling your company’s story.
Talk the Talk workshop is dedicated to mastering the art of networking and connection. This workshop dives deep into the real-world skills that turn conversations into opportunities — helping you strengthen your professional presence and form authentic relationships that drive growth. Through guided discussions and practical exercises, participants will learn strategies to break the ice, communicate with confidence, and cultivate meaningful industry connections. Gain insights into how to make lasting impressions, build credibility, and transform networking from a challenge into a powerful personal and professional asset.
This interactive two-part workshop will guide business owners through the essential certifications, registrations, and compliance steps needed to compete for local, state, and federal contract opportunities. Participants will learn how to identify the certifications that match their business type (e.g., M/WBE, DBE, VOSB, SBA 8(a)), navigate the registration process for systems like SAM.gov and state/local vendor portals, and develop a clear action plan to prepare for upcoming bids. The sessions will include practical tips, real-world examples, and step-by-step resources to help entrepreneurs confidently move forward.
Join HACIA in collaboration with the Federation of Women Contractors for Part 1 of this workshop series where you will gain specific industry insights into the world of clean energy projects, construction practices, and more. Explore the diverse landscape of clean energy opportunities and understand the specific contractor roles and scopes available. Key Topics Covered in Part 1: Overview of the Clean Energy Sector, Assisting Businesses in Identifying Contractor Opportunities, &Vendor Registration and Databases for Clean Energy Projects.
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