Lead By Example Incentive Fund Program

About the program

The Lead by Example Incentive Fund finances internal waste reduction and green purchasing projects by Hennepin County departments. In 2010, $100,000 is available for projects.

The Hennepin County Solid Waste Management Master Plan calls for the county to lead by example in the areas of waste and toxicity reduction, recycling and environmentally preferable purchasing. By being good environmental stewards in the way we conduct our day-to-day operations, the county can set a positive example for businesses and residents. 

Project criteria

The program provides start-up funding to Hennepin County departments for innovative projects that meet county and regional solid waste master plan outcomes. Proposed projects that are consistent with the following outcomes will receive strong consideration. 

1. Reduce waste from Hennepin County facilities that requires disposal. Priority will be given to projects that reduce office paper, packaging or organic materials. 
2. Reduce the amount of hazardous chemicals used in Hennepin County operations. 
3. Increase the procurement of environmentally preferable products and services that have a solid waste component to their preferable attributes. 

Priority will be given to projects that focus on a product or service that has been identified as a "priority green purchasing opportunity" at a previous Green Purchasing Workshop. 

Applying for funds

To apply for the Lead by Example Incentive Fund:

• Learn more by reading the Lead by Example Incentive Fund Guidelines & Application Instructions.
• Fill out an Application Form.

Projects

See a list of projects and case studies for ideas.

For more information 

If you have any questions about the Incentive Grant Program, please contact Ben Knudson at Benjamin.Knudson@co.hennepin.mn.us or 612-596-1176. 

You are strongly encouraged to contact the grant manager for assistance with developing a project or reviewing draft project ideas.