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Local government

USGBC Launches LEED for Cities Accelerator to Support Local Governments in Achieving Sustainable Goals

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) has made a significant commitment to supporting local governments in their quest for sustainability by launching the LEED for Cities Accelerator. This comprehensive program aims to reduce barriers to entry associated with certification and provide a step-by-step introduction to the LEED for Cities framework. Since its launch in June 2024, the accelerator has engaged 62 local governments across six key U.S. regions, combining in-person summits with virtual technical assistance to facilitate a smooth transition to certification.

Key Takeaways:

  • The LEED for Cities Accelerator is a three-part interactive learning experience that guides local government staff through the LEED for Cities rating system and certification process.
  • The accelerator is designed to support local governments in achieving their sustainability goals, providing a tangible path forward and demystifying the certification process.
  • The program offers a complimentary LEED for Cities project registration and USGBC Silver-level membership, valued at $2,850, to participants who complete all three calls.
  • The accelerator is part of a growing list of USGBC initiatives aimed at making cities and communities better places to live, work, and thrive.
  • So far, the program has reached 62 local governments across Arizona, Washington, Texas, Florida, California, and the Midwest.
  • Participants have praised the program for providing outside support and demystifying the certification process, with some highlighting the program's inclusivity and helpfulness.

Statistics:

  • The LEED for Cities Accelerator has engaged 62 local governments across six key U.S. regions since its launch in June 2024.
  • The program offers a complimentary LEED for Cities project registration and USGBC Silver-level membership, valued at $2,850, to participants who complete all three calls.
  • So far, the annual LEED for Cities certification cohort has provided a targeted 12-month certification program to cities and counties across the U.S.
  • The program has received positive feedback from participants, with many highlighting the program's inclusivity and helpfulness.

Sources:

  • USGBC's press release (date not specified)
  • USGBC's LEED for Cities page (no date specified)

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