EmPower Massachusetts is an initiative to support the exploration, development, and implementation of program models or projects that provide access to the benefits of clean energy for previously underserved populations in Massachusetts. Through the program we're offering funding to:

• Build organizational capacity ($5,000 to $25,000 grants)
• Explore innovative solutions ($5,000 to $25,000 grants)
• Implement solutions ($50,000 to $150,000 grants)

Who's Eligible?

MassCEC is seeking a wide variety of applicants/participants to participate in the program, such as:

• Community-based organizations (CBOs), non-profits or individuals
• Municipalities (including MLP communities)
• Clean energy installers/implementors
• Financial institutions

We are also seeking to encourage and facilitate beneficial partnerships to the extent possible. All applicants other than CBOs must partner with a CBO to participate in either grant opportunity. See the Request for Proposals (RFP) page for more details. 

How Do I Get Started?

Not sure where to begin? Start with this list of recommendations!

• Review program goals, and eligibility
• Review grant opportunities below
• Review our FAQs updated as of 8.9.21
• Attend office hours
• Set up a call with MassCEC
• If you're new to clean energy, review our clean energy 101 primer
• Join our slack channel and continue the conversation

Apply for an Innovation and Capacity Building Grant:

• Innovation and Capacity Building Grants are  "seed" funding for the exploration of innovative ideas for potential program models or projects, which includes the opportunity to build community or organizational capacity.
• What is Capacity Building? Learn more from the National Council of Non-Profits on Capacity Building.
• We expect this funding could be utilized for, but not limited to: staff time devoted to program concept development or refinement; technical studies needed to move projects forward; costs for a grant-writer, accountant, lawyer, or other professional services, and costs associated with ongoing community engagement.
• Grant range $5,000-$25,000
• To learn more and apply, visit the Request for Proposals page here.
• Please note, the first deadline for responses to both RFPs has now passed. There will be a second application review window for the Innovation and Capacity Building Grants on November 10, 2021.

Apply for an Implementation Grant:

• Implementation grants are funding to implement community-based programs or projects that increase the access to the benefits of clean energy and/or reduce energy burden to previously underserved population priority groups.
• We expect applications for the implementation of proposed programs or projects to identify clean goals and outcomes for energy access for the targeted priority population.
• Grant range of $50,000-$150,000
• To learn more and apply, visit the Request for Proposals page here.
• Please note, the first deadline for responses to both RFPs has now passed. There will be a second application review window for Implementation Grants in Winter/Spring 2022.

Attend EmPower Workshops:

If you are interested in applying to the program, developing partnerships, and brainstorming solutions, you should attend one of our workshops.

Expectations & anticipated results of the workshops:

• Receive more information on the program and how to apply
• Receive a refresher on clean energy barriers
• Brainstorm ideas for grant applications
• Network and build relationships, with some that may result in partnership for an application
• Provide feedback to MassCEC

June 2021 Workshop Schedule:

• Session 1: June 9, 2021 12:00pm-2:00pm. Click here to watch the recording of the Workshop!
• Session 2: June 16, 2021 5:30pm-7:30pm. Click here to watch the recording of the Workshop!

Can't attend? Don't worry! We're intending to host more workshops in the coming months. Please reach out with your suggestions for future dates and times.