ATLANTA (June 26, 2023) – The Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) and the Georgia Hispanic Construction Association (GHCA) have forged a partnership to support disadvantaged and minority contractors.
The partnership represents a shared vision of empowering underrepresented communities in the construction industry. Both organizations seek to create opportunities and advance a more inclusive and sustainable Georgia.
“Our lending programs break down the financing barriers faced by minority contractors,” said Duanne Andrade, Executive Director of SELF. “Together, we seek to promote inclusive access to resources and financing to develop a new generation of builders focused on sustainable and equitable housing. Juntos podemos más!”
The partnership will facilitate knowledge sharing and technical assistance, creating green jobs and business opportunities for Hispanic contractors. By leveraging SELF’s inclusive green financing programs and GHCA’s deep understanding of the challenges faced by Hispanic contractors, the collaboration aims to unlock new business opportunities in the fast-emerging clean energy economy.
“We are advancing a more equitable and sustainable construction industry,” said GHCA’s Executive Director Rafael Villegas. “By partnering with SELF, we can leverage our collective strengths to advance the interests of disadvantaged and minority contractors, ultimately contributing to a more just and prosperous community.”
At the national level, SELF has expanded its recruitment of minority contractors into its free network as part of its partnership with the U.S. Minority Contractors Association. This collaboration will enable the implementation of programs, initiatives, and projects that address the unique challenges faced by minority contractors. Contractors seeking to join SELF’s Contractor Network can join for free by filling out the following form: https://www.tfaforms.com/4730543, or by contacting Bridgette Long, SELF’s Georgia Community Engagement Officer at bridgettel@solarenergyloanfund.org.
###
About Solar and Energy Loan Fund:
The Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) is a nonprofit green bank – CDFI that finances sustainable property improvements. Through innovative and equitable financing solutions, SELF empowers homeowners, contractors, landlords, and affordable housing developers to implement energy-efficient, climate-resilient, and renewable energy projects, ultimately reducing carbon emissions and creating green jobs and a more equitable and sustainable future. For more information, visit www.solarenergyloanfund.org.
About Georgia Hispanic Construction Association: The Georgia Hispanic Construction Association (GHCA) is a nonprofit organization supporting and advocating for Hispanic contractors in Georgia. GHCA works to create opportunities, provide resources, and foster collaboration within the construction industry. GHCA aims to empower Hispanic contractors and build a stronger, more inclusive construction sector by promoting education, economic development, and community engagement. For more information, visit https://www.georgiahca.org/
Media Contact:
Li Cohen
Contact via email
772.276.6724