GreenGain Program Accepting Applications through February 25 

HARTFORD, Conn. – February 11, 2025GreenGain, a new pilot program geared towards smaller manufacturing companies in Connecticut, is continuing to accept applications to participate in the program now through February 25. The program is open to business owners, executives, and department heads in smaller manufacturing companies—no prior sustainability experience is required to apply.

Recently launched by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Office of Manufacturing in partnership with the Connecticut Sustainable Business Council (CTSBC) and the Connecticut Green Bank (Green Bank), GreenGain provides training, subject matter expertise, and matching funds to help smaller manufacturing companies in the state integrate energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other technologies and strategies into their operations. The program will support manufacturers in building more sustainable and resilient businesses, boosting economic growth, performance, and competitiveness.

“Connecticut’s smaller manufacturers are uniquely positioned to lead the way in sustainable innovation,” said Heather Burns, CEO, CT Sustainable Business Council. “GreenGain offers them the tools to navigate industry challenges while balancing sustainability goals, ensuring they remain competitive and resilient. We’re excited to work with the companies that have already committed to the program and hope to add more before we launch our monthly training sessions on February 26.”

One of the companies signed on to the program is Bristol-based medical device manufacturer Beekley Corporation. The company began its sustainability journey with its first EcoVadis submission in April 2024, which earned Beekley a Bronze Medal from the sustainability-rating organization and placed it in the Top 35% Globally for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) performance. Since then, Beekley has created a sustainability committee that has set corporate sustainability goals and policies. The company is leveraging GreenGain to build upon its solid sustainability foundation and expand initiatives with the program’s support and training.

“Beekley Corporation is excited to join Connecticut’s new GreenGain Program,” said Maureen O. Gallo, President, Beekley Corporation. “Our EcoVadis rating highlighted key opportunities and actionable insights, and we look forward to leveraging GreenGain’s support as we advance our sustainability journey. As a small business, it’s an invaluable opportunity to learn from industry experts and adopt impactful practices that drive positive change.”

GreenGain provides participants with monthly training sessions led by experts in sustainability and green manufacturing, as well as representatives from larger manufacturers with robust corporate sustainability programs. Upcoming sessions include:

  • Session 1: Introduction to Sustainability in Manufacturing

February 26th, 9:30 AM

  • Session 2: Carbon Footprinting for a Business Advantage

March 26th, 9:30 AM

  • Session 3: Leveraging Certifications, Standards, and Frameworks

April 30th, 9:30 AM

  • Session 4: Navigating Energy Efficiency Programs and Clean Energy Financing

May 14th, 9:30 AM

In addition to the monthly training sessions, participating manufacturers can qualify to receive funding support to implement sustainability practices, perform energy audits, complete energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy projects, install carbon accounting software, and more.

Through GreenGain’s voucher program, companies can apply for matching funds to finance related projects and initiatives.

GreenGain is funded through the Office of Manufacturing’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF) and is administered by the Green Bank through a partnership with CTSBC.

To learn more about GreenGain or to apply, visit ctsbcouncil.org/green-gain.