Build your business improving the efficiency and comfort of Maine homes.
Weatherization services are needed throughout Maine to help us meet our energy efficiency and climate goals. We need contractors like you to provide them. It’s good for your bottom line and good for the planet.
Do you own a contracting or home repair business and are interested in offering more services, but you aren’t sure where to start?
Do you work as a construction, installation or repair professional and can see yourself running your own business?
Are you a weatherization professional looking to expand your team?
CEI’s Weatherization Business Lab might be right for you.
The CEI Weatherization Business Lab is a free seven-week program that will help you start or expand your business in the weatherization field.
Who is Eligible to Participate?
The program welcomes both new and existing business owners who are interested in providing weatherization services, including: air sealing, insulation, energy audits, and any other services related to protecting buildings from outside elements. For participants without at least one BPI certificate, some pre-work will be required. Program participants can also access up to $3,000 per business for owners and/or employees to complete training or certifications related to weatherization.
What Will I Learn?
Through a series of seven classes, taught by CEI business advisors and industry experts, you will learn:
- Basic business management tools, including:
- marketing
- pricing
- financial management
- human resources
- Industry-specific insights, including:
- equipment needs and other startup costs associated with weatherization businesses
- incentive programs to help your customers pay for your services
- licensing and technical requirements
- registering your business with Efficiency Maine
- And more!
These topics will be covered in a practical, straightforward manner, intended for the participant to confidently move forward with beginning their own business or growing their current business into new sectors and markets.
How Long Does the Weatherization Business Lab Last?
The CEI Weatherization Business Lab meets once a week for seven weeks, getting you the information you need to grow your business in under two months.
What Does It Cost to Attend?
Thanks to grant funding from Maine Governor’s Energy Office, the CEI Weatherization Business Lab is being offered at no cost to participants and participants who complete the program are eligible for up to $3,000 in grants for training/certification purposes.
Interested in future sessions? Fill out the form below to be notified of upcoming opportunities.