In the pursuit of a sustainable future, many of us are turning to join or create companies in the space of impact, renewable energy, or social enterprises. For some big dreams to thrive, like tech companies with real products, you will need to rely on financial backing and exposure. This is where strategic funding, grants, and online promotion in areas like SEO come into play. Good ideas aren’t enough.
This short guide will help give you some ideas and ways to secure funding, even for initial pilot ideas or proof of concept. Establishing your digital presence is key, so think first about what assets you will need and what sort of digital marketing grant may be out there to help you start.
Governments worldwide or just locally in your town or region in Canada or the UK, will offer grants and incentives to spur the growth of renewable energy projects, and even projects that help communities get involved to save energy or conserve water. Scout government programs at local, regional, and national levels to unearth potential funding streams. It takes legwork but once you are in the system it is easy to access new grants.
Platforms like Grants.gov (in the US) or similar resources in other regions serve as valuable starting points.
Many non-profit organizations are committed to advancing renewable energy adoption. Look to local foundations, NGOs, and environmental groups that may be extending grants or financial support for your impact idea. Tailor proposals to align with each organization’s specific criteria and application processes.
Some corporations prioritize corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, particularly those centered around sustainability and clean energy. Estee Lauder does this in the United States and Canada. Reach out to companies sharing similar values to explore sponsorship or partnership opportunities. Corporate backing not only provides financial support but also opens doors to resources and networks. The biopackaging company Tipa, for instance, just made a deal with Wyld, an edibles company in the United States. Together they turned a business idea into a marketing campaign for getting rid of plastics forever.
Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe are still relevant if not to raise money, but to start your early marketing. Set reasonable and attainable goals which are more impressive than the risk of not getting funded at all.
Venture capital firms and impact investors are increasingly looking to novel solutions to invest in. Sequoia in the US just invested millions in Upway, a refurbished electric bike company. You will need a pitch deck, and to participate in networking events, pitch competitions, and sustainable energy conferences to connect with potential investors. Start with angel investor networks before heading to the VCs which can take up too much of your time.
In the UK, for instance, several resources are available at the government level to support renewable energy:
Feed-in Tariff (FIT) Scheme: The UK government offers the FIT scheme, which provides financial incentives to homeowners, businesses, and communities generating renewable electricity, including solar power. Under this scheme, participants who invest in solar panels will receive payments for the electricity they generate and export to the grid.
Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI): The RHI scheme encourages citizens to start using renewable heating technologies, including solar thermal systems. Participants receive quarterly payments over several years based on the amount of renewable heat generated.
Green Homes Grant: This scheme provides funding for homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. Solar panels may be eligible as part of measures to reduce energy consumption.
