Join the Indigenous clean energy movement and embark on a learning experience of a lifetime
The 20/20 Catalysts Program is an intensive Indigenous clean energy capacity-building program unlike any other. The Program provides practical and applied learning about renewable energy projects, community energy planning, energy efficiency and conservation, business management, and advanced energy systems. In addition, participants (‘Catalysts’) are supported to move clean energy projects forward on the ground.
The program includes:
- Engaging in-class learning sessions;
- One-on-one clean energy mentorship;
- Access to personal and professional coaching;
- Clean energy project tours;
- Access to informative and educational webinars;
- Exclusive access to the 20/20 Catalysts Program Portal on the ICE Network;
- Access to tools, resources, and networks to support community clean energy projects.
Program Mentors and Coaches
Taking place from May to July every year, the 20/20 Catalysts Program is led by 35+ of the most knowledgeable and experienced Indigenous leaders and clean energy practitioners from coast to coast to coast.
This award-winning program connects First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Catalysts to a network of mentors and coaching specialists involved in clean energy project development—both on and off-grid—such as solar and wind farming, hydro, bioenergy, microgrids and storage, and energy efficiency upgrades.
All our program mentors bring valued experiences and facilitate learning sessions using various teaching techniques, exposing Catalysts to the breadth and depth of project development all the way to project completion, including hands-on learning.
Commitments
There is no cost to the applicants, but they must commit to all virtual and on-site learning. Throughout the program, Catalysts are supported by peers, mentors, coaches, ICE staff, and through the ICE Network.
We expect Catalysts to actively engage in the Program activities and bring the skills and knowledge they gain back to their community. There is also a significant time commitment that must be made. Over the three months of the Program, Catalysts must participate in:
- Three (3) week-long on-site intensive sessions;
- Nine (9) one-on-one coaching and/mentoring sessions;
- Six (6) online webinar sessions;
- Three (3) weekly Action Plans; and,
- The completion and submission of a Catalyst Action Project.
Program Goals
Leadership Capabilities
Catalysts are connected with program mentors and ICE’s network from across the country to acquire fundamental clean energy skills, such as know-how to create social change and gain economic benefits. This is then brought back to communities and applied to community-led projects.
Building Community Capacity
Catalysts are encouraged to share their program experiences and resources with other community members to promote the social and economic benefits of their project vision. This may be done through employment training and skills development, community planning, financial management, and other methods to foster and educate community members about clean energy and sustainability.
Community Readiness
The ultimate goal of the 20/20 Catalyst Program is to create clean energy leaders who feel confident and prepared to develop successful clean energy projects and effective partnerships. By equipping communities, they will be ready to capitalize on and seek out clean energy development opportunities.
Program Takeaways
Catalysts will learn from experts and colleagues through shared experiences and lessons from past projects. Ultimately, they will walk away from the Program with the skills, tools, and resources necessary to maximize the social and economic benefits that communities can gain through participation in clean energy projects.
The Program focuses on four Energy Skills Categories. Each category is broken down into key session topics.
Business Management & Entrepreneurship
- Human Resource Skills Development & Training
- Project Management
- Employment Strategies and Procurement
- Apprenticeships & Mentoring
- Partnerships with Stakeholders
- Economic and Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Energy Project Development
- Clean Energy Project Feasibility Studies
- Environmental Regulations & Permitting
- Clean Energy Project Construction and Operations
- Project Site Management and Control
- Introduction to Energy Systems
Project Financing and Equity Structures
- Equity Options & Structures
- Financing Terms & Conditions
- Financial Risk Reduction and Management
- Community Trusts and Reinvestments
Community Energy Engagement and Planning
- Identifying Community Energy Needs
- Understanding Energy Landscapes
- Community Energy and Education Engagement Strategies
- Creating and Implementing a Community Energy Plan
On-site Intensives
On-site Intensive Sessions are held in unique locations across Canada’s natural landscape. Each location fosters a comfortable and open learning environment that enables creativity and collaboration. Locations are selected strategically based on their proximity to renewable energy projects.
On-site Locations 2023
April 30, 2023 – May 5, 2023
- Atlantic
June 11 – 16, 2023
- Saskatchewan
July 23 – 28, 2023
- British Columbia
Get Involved with the 20/20 Catalysts Program
There are many ways you can get involved in the 20/20 Catalysts Program! You may apply to be a Catalyst, become a mentor or support the program financially.
Become a Catalyst
We accept 20 participants per year into the Program. If you are interested in applying to the program, please take a moment to join the ICE Network and fill out the application form below.
Please contact Justice Morningstar, 20/20 Catalysts Program Manager, if you have any questions about the Program.
Applications for the 2024 cohort are open!
Become a Mentor
Program Mentors are experienced Indigenous leaders and clean energy practitioners who possess deep familiarity with Indigenous culture, traditions, and values. Program Mentors are available to support Catalysts before, during, and after the 20/20 Catalysts Program.
Program coaches provide one-on-one personal and professional development support to each Catalyst – helping them grow their leadership skills.
Support the Program
The 20/20 Catalysts Program depends on contributions from private, government and charitable organizations. Donations to the program can be made through the Ottawa Community Foundation. An income tax receipt will be provided for your donation.
When you donate to the 20/20 Catalysts Program you are committing to the growth of clean energy projects across Canada!
20/20 Catalysts Contributors and Collaborators
If you are interested in collaborating with or supporting the 20/20 Catalysts program, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
