In the spring, the Building Innovation Hub team attended the first ever Emerald Cities Collaborative DC Contractor Incubator Cohort Program graduation, and cheered on its cohort of participants as they received their certificates for the successful completion of the 8-week program. The program saw the participation of 25 talented businesses from diverse contractual backgrounds, with 15 of them located across Wards 5, 7, and 8. This groundbreaking initiative was designed to provide support, guidance, and resources to minority, women, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MWDBE) looking to break into the clean energy space and/or expand their existing skills in the high-performance buildings sector.
Throughout the program, cohort participants had the opportunity to engage in targeted training sessions, networking events, and one-on-one mentorship with industry experts. Through technical assessments and business coaching, they also received valuable insights on:
- business development
- project management
- financial planning
- marketing
- procurement training
Participants were equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a competitive market. Each business is eligible to receive continued coaching and technical assistance for two years post-graduation.
As a result of their hard work and dedication, we are proud to report that all 25 participants have successfully completed the program and are now ready to take their businesses to the next level. From securing new contracts to improving their business operations, these talented individuals have demonstrated exceptional growth and potential.
The Hub team is excited to see the positive impact that these participants will have on the construction industry and look forward to supporting them on their journey to success by connecting them with green projects throughout the District. Congratulations to the DC Contractor Incubator Program graduates—the future of the industry is brighter because of you!
The second cohort of the Incubator is set to begin this Fall on Wednesday, September 18.
Emerald Cities Collaborative will release the application in mid-July and host two information sessions in August. Updates will be shared on this page and our newsletter as more information becomes available.
