Greener Factories Forum

How reducing your emission footprint can grow your business

Join us on November 14th at the Greener Factories Forum, hosted by the Clean Energy Manufacturing initiative. This groundbreaking event is designed to help manufacturing companies like yours find the real green (money!) in greener factory activities. Beyond the global benefits of reduced emissions, waste, and energy consumption, we will share the best regional and national resources to help you successfully navigate this transition to cleaner manufacturing processes.

Lead the Way Towards a Net Zero Economy
At Catalyst Connection, we believe in highlighting regional efforts toward a net zero economy. Our focus is on setting ambitious goals, implementing innovative initiatives, and paving the path forward. By joining the Greener Factories Forum, you will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and strategies that will enable you to be a pioneer in the green manufacturing industry.

Unlock Funding Opportunities for Your Business
We understand that financing your goals is crucial. That’s why the Greener Factories Forum will provide you with essential information on low-interest loans, grants, and other innovative programs. With billions of available dollars, you can upgrade your business, adopt sustainable practices, and tap into new customer markets. Don’t miss out on this chance to make your goals a reality.

Attendees in person will receive an advanced copy of the Greener Factories – Starter’s Workbook and a Clean Energy Manufacturing water bottle.

Virtual attendees will receive a Zoom link to watch the conference live.

Agenda

• • 1:00 – 1:15   Welcome & Overview Clean Energy Manufacturing Project – The drive to the net zero economy provides opportunities for manufacturers to not only engage in the energy supply chain, but to increase sustainability within their operations. Learn more about how this project can provide technical and financial support along your journey.
    • Catalyst Connection

   

  • 1:15 – 1:45   Drive to the Net Zero Economy: Balancing Emission Reduction Efforts with Business Growth – Balancing energy efficiency improvements and operational growth can be difficult. Discover some tools and approaches our project resource partners utilize for the holistic approach to funding and identification.
    • Gil Gonzales, Co-Founder, Subcity, Inc
    • David Huber, Vice President Business Development, CLEAResult
    • Catalyst Connection, Moderator

   

  • 1:45 – 2:15   Vendor Supplier Sustainability Commitment Programs – Requirements for ESG compliance are being led by larger manufacturers through their supply chain suppliers. Learn the key commitment programs and the assistance available to satisfy them.
    • Lisa McGrath, Manager – Expert Services, US Steel

   

  • 2:15–2:45  Financing Your Energy Efficiency Upgrades – Renovation costs may seem cost prohibitive. But there are options. This session will provide information on low interest loans, grants and other innovative programs that can make your goals a reality.
    • Gary Reed, Area Director, USDA Rural Development
    • Denise Grady, Chief Financial Officer, Berner Air Curtains
    • Linda Thomson, President & CEO, JARI, Moderator

   

  • 2:45 – 3:30  Affordable Energy Efficiency Upgrades – This session will explore where companies can see immediate impact on their business’ bottom line and energy usage with minimal investment.
    • Jason Clark, Director of Operations & Energy Engineer, 3R Sustainability

   

  • 3:30 – 4:00   Taking Stock: Energy Audits & Assessments – Panelists will walk through what is involved with an assessment from the Industrial Assessment Center at WVU and feedback from a manufacturer who has recently gone through this process.
    • Bhaskaran Gopalakrishnan, Ph.D., P.E., C.E.M., LEED Green Associate, Professor and Director of the Industrial Assessment Center at WVU
    • Standard Bent Glass                  
    • Tom Reed, Project Manager CEMfg, Catalyst Connection, Moderator                                                             

   

  • 4:00    Next Steps & Closing Remarks – The Clean Energy Manufacturing Team has partners throughout the tri-state region and is able to assist manufacturers navigate the drive to net zero.