Cook County Solar Synergy

Service Information

NOTE: This program will launch in early February 2025. Please check back for updates!

Cook County Solar Synergy connects contractors and job seekers to the resources they need to enter and succeed in the solar-installation sector. 

For contractors

Contractors interested in solar installation can work with the Cook County Small Business Source, which provides:

  • No-cost, one-on-one business advising through its network of Business Support Organizations
  • Access to contractor-accelerator programs that offer specialized training, business-development support and networking opportunities
  • Guidance in applying for the latest financing opportunities
  • A robust calendar of informative events including webinars

Builders Avenue, a Business Support Organization within The Source, helps to provide these services. Builders Avenue's mission is to cultivate the financial health of diverse businesses in the construction industry through comprehensive coaching and training, and back-office support from local service providers. 

For job seekers

Job seekers can take advantage of training programs led by two nonprofit organizations that prepare them for careers in solar installation.

  • HIRE360 offers a training program that prepares participants for apprenticeship opportunities in trades that support solar installation.
  • OAI, Inc. offers a training program that prepares participants for entry-level employment in solar installation.

More on the program

Cook County Solar Synergy is supported by a $1.1 million grant the County received from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) in June 2023.

As part of this program, the County teams up with several stakeholders in the solar-sector, small-business and workforce ecosystems.

These stakeholders share knowledge intended to maximize businesses' returns and improve workers’ economic mobility.

Questions?

For more information, contact Cook County Bureau of Economic Development public relations specialist Kyle Garmes at kyle.garmes@cookcountyil.gov.

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