Teach. Empower. Energize. Become a Grassroots Educator!
Illinois Solar for All invites non-profit community-based organizations to submit proposals to become Grassroots Educators for the 2025-2026 program year. This is a unique opportunity for organizations with strong local connections to help empower their communities by spreading awareness of the financial and environmental benefits of going solar.
Grassroots Educators are non-profit community-based organizations that partner with the ILSFA team and have in-depth program knowledge to share with their communities and potential program participants. These organizations conduct campaigns throughout Illinois to inform and engage income-eligible community members about the benefits of going solar through Illinois Solar for All.
Why Join Illinois Solar for All as a Grassroots Educator?
- Receive funding to support your ILSFA outreach campaigns, helping you reach more residents.
- Access professionals from ILSFA and like-minded organizations to help enhance your marketing and community engagement efforts.
- Receive structured support from ILSFA program team members who will provide ongoing guidance, answer questions, and help you navigate challenges.
- Capitalize on the recognition of ILSFA to demonstrate your commitment to equity, sustainability, environmental justice, and financial empowerment.
Eligibility Criteria
- Eligible organizations are community-based, registered non-profits serving Illinois cities, towns, and rural communities.
- Organizations should have strong local ties and a history of running successful education campaigns in income-eligible neighborhoods or environmental justice communities.
- Solar experience is not required.
The Process for Applications
The Request for Proposals process is open for submissions from February 19 to April 4, 2025. Successful proposals will demonstrate how the organization intends to connect with community members to increase awareness of the benefits of solar and ILSFA. Selected organizations will conduct campaigns beginning in the summer of 2025 and will be active through December 2026.
Timeline
- March 3, 2025: Request for Proposal Q&A Webinar #1
- March 12, 2025: Request for Proposal Q&A Webinar #2
- March 12, 2025: Questions are due to Grassroots@illinoisSFA.com
- March 21, 2025: Answers are posted
- April 4, 2025: Proposal submission deadline
- May 2025: Selected grassroots education campaigns announced
Request for Proposal Materials
2025-2026 Grassroots Education Request for Proposals, February 19, 2025
Get Started
Interested organizations should download the Grassroots Education Request for Proposals and associated materials to ensure proper submission. Completed proposals must be emailed to Grassroots@IllinoisSFA.com no later than April 4, 2025 (11:59 p.m. CST).