CERTs Seed Grants are just the beginning

Across Minnesota, communities are planting CERTs Seed Grant projects that improve comfort, lower energy costs, build knowledge, and strengthen resilience. The ideas come from local organizations, Tribal nations, cities, schools, faith communities, and neighborhood groups who understand their own challenges and how to approach solutions. This year’s projects reflect a wide range of ideas, places, and people, all rooted in local needs and priorities.

Maggie Kozak, CERTs’ event programming and seed grants manager, says the scope and range of new applications suggest that even after two decades, CERTs is still making new connections.

“We’re so glad that communities are hearing about CERTs and are approaching us as a resource to work alongside them,” says Kozak. “Especially among underserved and under-resourced communities.”

Haskard agrees, “At CERTs, we know that energy costs can be a burden for many Minnesotans. People should not have to choose whether to heat their home or buy food. We believe that energy efficiency and renewable energy can be part of the solution.”

CERTs staff live and work in every region of Minnesota, serving their communities directly. Beyond the seed grant program, staff provide free, unbiased support to help communities move clean energy projects forward. That support includes practical tools, technical guidance, connections to partners and funding, learning opportunities, and stories that help others learn what’s possible.

“Seed grants are just one part of what we do,” Kozak explains. “Our role is to meet communities where they are. Every place is different, so the support we provide looks different, too.”

Over time, many projects grow beyond their initial scope. They may inspire similar efforts in nearby communities, attract additional funding, or connect groups that evolve into long-term partners. Along the way, these efforts do more than solve local challenges — they show that clean energy can be practical, accessible, and part of everyday life.

Whether an idea is just beginning or already underway, CERTs helps Minnesota communities grow their clean energy future. Because clean energy doesn’t take root all at once, it grows from many small seeds that bloom in time.