Community Energy Innovation Prize

What does this funding get me?

The deadline for this grant has passed. If it recurs in the future, we will update this page with the new information.

This DOE prize funds community-based clean energy initiatives or projects that support advanced manufacturing. Projects must engage underserved communities and promote environmental, climate, and energy justice.

Am I eligible?

Community-based organizations, the private sector, and nonfederal government entities may apply.

How can I access the money?

The deadline to apply has passed.

Applications should engage underserved communities; promote environmental, climate, and energy justice; demonstrate strong community ties; and establish bridges between the Department of Energy and these communities. Submissions can focus on a community-based clean energy initiative to be considered for the Clean Energy Ecosystem Track, and/or a proposal for strengthening and revitalizing advanced manufacturing ecosystems to be considered for the Manufacturing Ecosystem Track.

If applicants are selected as a winner, they will receive prize awards as well as in-kind mentorship and support services.

Winners of the CONCEPT Phase will carry out their proposed plans with an opportunity to win an additional cash prize in the PROGRESS Phase. In the final IMPACT phase, competitors will present their activities and the measurable impacts they achieved and share their plans for the future to compete for the Grand Prize.

What is the timeline?

The deadline to apply has passed. We will update this page if another round of funding is announced.

What other incentives could I use to help me accomplish my goals?

If your application involves installing renewable energy, check out:

If your application involves helping homes improve their energy efficiency, check out:

Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for additional incentives that may be offered by your state, local government, or utility, as well as important federal, state, and local policies. For questions regarding DSIRE, contact Justin Lindemann (NC Clean Energy Technology Center) at jplindem@ncsu.edu.

Where can I get more information?