Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Project

The Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) project is a collaboration led by  the Emerald Cities Collaborative (ECC), funded by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and including work performed by the PVPC, and the Economic Development Council (EDC) of Western Mass. The project aims to increase the diversity of contractors in the clean energy sector and support an equitable energy transition as the Commonwealth of Massachusetts works to achieve Net Zero energy by 2050. The primary approach this project takes is capacity building of small contractors (owned by people of color and women) via the ECC’s E-Contractor Academy, and additional  support for these businesses from the Community Table members assembled as part of this project, to ensure these businesses are prepared to take on larger projects and compete in the bidding process for clean energy projects.

“MWBEs are denied access to capital at a much higher rate, face selection bias for projects, and often start with less personal wealth and social capital—all of which exacerbate the challenges that all businesses face during their start-up and early growth phases.​” -MassCEC

The E-contractor Academy is the program the ECC developed to foster a strong group of MWBE contractors. The academy trains contractors to be ready to enter the clean energy industry, with courses ranging from business support to navigating the procurement process. To learn more, check out the ECC’s E-Contractor Academy.

Events Calendar

The event calendar is a consolidated place for contractors in the clean energy sector to find events related to all things clean energy and MWBE in the New England area. Here you will find workshops, symposiums,  and less formal gatherings planned by and for those who work in the clean energy sector. Each event links to a page where you can see more information and sign up.
Click here to view/download calendar.

Contractor Inventory


Ever wondered where to find a list of local contractors for clean energy work? Our MWBE contractor inventory allows you to find the right business for the job. Scroll through to find contact information, location, and the type of work each contractor specializes in.

 

Community Meeting 10 April 2024

Photos by Doug Hall, PVPC