Please submit an application before the April 7 deadline if you have a product or service that will qualify.
The program’s primary goal is to foster and expand businesses that have the potential to reduce waste, energy or water usage, and carbon emissions by 20% within the local area. Whether your idea involves cutting down on food waste, improving energy efficiency, or reducing transportation-related emissions, Green Business Boot Camp offers the guidance and resources to turn your vision into reality.
To be eligible, your business must be located within the Flagstaff city limits. The application process is straightforward and can be accessed online at localfirstaz.com/green-boot-camp.
Participants will attend nine weekly sessions and will be hosted at the Moonshot Accelerator Conference Room, 2201 N Gemini Dr. The sessions are scheduled for one evening per week: Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. starting May 1 and continuing until June 12. Updates and further details are available on the program’s website.
Throughout the program, participants will engage with local sustainability experts, gaining insights into green business practices and strategies. Entrepreneurs will receive personalized support to refine their business models and plans. Additionally, the program will provide valuable information about potential financing options, including seed funding opportunities to help launch or grow green businesses.
For Flagstaff-based business owners looking to make a positive environmental impact while building a successful enterprise, Green Business Boot Camp offers the tools, knowledge and network to thrive in the green economy.
Innovate Green Challenge: Driving Sustainability and Innovation in Flagstaff
The Innovate Green Challenge is a flagship competition hosted by the City of Flagstaff’s Economic Development and Sustainability departments. It invites local entrepreneurs, businesses, and innovators to develop creative solutions that address environmental challenges. The challenge focuses on key sustainability issues such as carbon dioxide removal, water conservation, and waste reduction, encouraging participants to propose products or services that make a positive environmental impact while also being marketable.
Participants in the Innovate Green Challenge have the opportunity to win substantial cash prizes, providing crucial funding to turn their ideas into reality. The competition serves as a platform for innovators to showcase their solutions to a panel of judges composed of sustainability experts, business leaders and community stakeholders.
To support participants in refining their pitches and strengthening their business strategies, the challenge offers a series of preparatory workshops. These include sessions on legal considerations for startups, crafting an effective elevator pitch and developing a solid business model. Entrepreneurs also benefit from pitch development workshops, mock presentations and personalized feedback from mentors. The goal is to help participants present a clear, compelling case for their ideas while demonstrating the potential environmental and economic benefits.
The competition unfolds over two days, with initial pitch reviews and feedback sessions followed by formal presentations to the judging panel. Finalists present their solutions in front of an audience, highlighting their innovative approach and potential for real-world impact. Winners are selected based on the feasibility, scalability and environmental benefit of their ideas. Please submit an application before the April 7 deadline if you have a product or service that will qualify.
The Innovate Green Challenge reflects Flagstaff’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and resilient local economy. By combining environmental responsibility with business innovation, the challenge empowers local entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change while contributing to Flagstaff’s long-term sustainability goals. Interested applicants can learn more and apply online through chooseflagstaff.com. FBN
By Jeff McCormick and Creag Znetko
Jeff McCormick is the manager for Economic Development with City of Flagstaff. Creag Znetko is the administrator for Economic Development.
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