In early 2020, the Graham Sustainability Institute convened environmentally progressive Michigan local governments to discuss clean energy. The feedback was nearly unanimous: collective brainstorming and networking were invaluable.

These communities faced unique challenges in pioneering programs and technologies unfamiliar to much of the state. In response, Graham launched the Catalyst Leadership Circle (CLC) as part of Michigan’s Catalyst Communities initiative to support these leaders in achieving their climate and energy goals and pave the way for other jurisdictions.

Open to high-achieving local governments with a silver, gold, or platinum designation in the Michigan Green Communities Challenge, the CLC fosters sustainability through peer-sharing convenings, regular updates on resources, and eligibility for assistance with decarbonization projects through the CLC Fellowship.

Providing networking, resource development, and tailored talks, the CLC helps build capacity for sustainability efforts across Michigan. Members also gain more direct access to Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for insights into state programming.

CLC membership also includes the opportunity to partner with a graduate-level CLC Fellow, who assists with advanced sustainability projects over a 10-week summer period. These projects provide local governments with actionable outcomes to advance their climate goals while creating a pipeline of students ready for impactful careers in sustainability.

Questions? Contact Sarah Lee, [email protected]