Sierra Business Council
Sierra Business Council collaborates with small businesses, local governments, and nonprofits to build a vibrant local economy and address climate change in the Sierra Nevada region.
Services
Sierra Business Council provides various services aimed at fostering a vibrant local economy and helping communities adapt to climate change. They run the Sierra Small Business Development Center, providing free consulting and training for businesses. They also administer the Martis Fund Homebuyer Assistance Program and the Sierra Nevada Energy Watch program, offering no-cost energy efficiency and renewable energy services. Additionally, the organization hosts the California Green Business Network – Sierra Chapter and supports the Town of Truckee's Dark Sky Outdoor Lighting Rebate Program.
Climate Action Initiatives
Sierra Business Council actively assists Sierra communities in planning for climate change. This includes reducing emissions and adapting to environmental changes through initiatives like the Climate Transformation Alliance, aiming for carbon neutrality in North Tahoe-Truckee by 2045. They also conduct the Sierra Nevada Climate Vulnerability Assessment to prepare communities for future climate challenges. Their Sierra Nevada Energy Watch program offers no-cost energy efficiency services to local governments, school districts, and public agencies, promoting sustainable practices.
Economic Empowerment Programs
The Sierra Business Council focuses on economic empowerment within the region. They manage the Sierra Small Business Development Center, offering free business consulting and training sessions. The council is also involved in the California Jobs First (CERF) initiative, which focuses on job creation and economic development in the Eastern Sierra and Placer & El Dorado Counties. Moreover, their Forest Entrepreneurship Program supports businesses in forest management and wood products, contributing to the local economy.
Community Advocacy and Support
Sierra Business Council advocates for the interests of the Sierra Nevada region in legislative outcomes. They manage the Gold Country Broadband Consortium to expand broadband access in Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, and Sierra counties. Additionally, the organization administers the Martis Fund Homebuyer Assistance Program, providing financial support to income-qualified families. Their Lake Tahoe Water Trail initiative promotes safe, environmentally responsible paddling along Lake Tahoe's 72-mile shoreline. The Sierra Business Council also collaborates with local nonprofits and governments to address various social needs.