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The transportation landscape is changing rapidly, and electric vehicles (EVs) are paving the way toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. For businesses and nonprofits in Western North Carolina, adopting EVs and installing charging infrastructure has never been more attainable or promising. The Mountain BizWorks Electrify Fund is an initiative to empower WNC’s commercial entities and nonprofits by providing funding opportunities to transition to clean energy solutions.
Switching to EVs and charging stations doesn’t just benefit the environment; it can transform your organization’s bottom line by reducing costs and unlocking new opportunities. Find out how the Electrify Fund can support a wide range of eligible technologies.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations
The conversation around electric vehicles has moved beyond “what if” to “how soon.” With steeply rising interest in clean transportation alternatives, EVs are becoming integral to both environmental and economic strategies. For businesses and nonprofits in WNC, the addition of EVs and charging infrastructure offers several potential benefits.
Financial & Business Benefits
Fuel Cost Savings: Electric vehicles significantly reduce costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Lower Maintenance Costs: EVs have fewer moving parts, which translates to lower upkeep expenses.
Portable Power Sources: Many EVs can serve as mobile charging stations and battery banks, allowing you to charge and run tools and equipment on the go, and operate without utility power at remote locations, construction sites, and in emergency situations.
Get Incentives: You can offset the costs of new charging infrastructure or vehicles through programs like the NEVI Formula and rebates offered by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Community & Environmental Benefits
Reduced Carbon Footprint: By switching to electric, your organization actively contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Improved Air Quality: EV adoption leads to cleaner air for your employees, customers, and the broader community.
Support for Regional Zero-Emission Goals: Every EV contributes to WNC’s mission for a more sustainable and greener future.
Why the Electrify Fund is the Perfect Partner
Eligibility for the Electrify Fund
Wondering if your organization qualifies for Electrify Fund support? Here’s what you need to know.
Eligible Applicants
Small businesses, nonprofits, rural facilities, and organizations using fleet vehicles or mobile machinery are encouraged to apply!
Projects Covered
Various projects are eligible for support, from electric fleet vehicles, tractors, and forklifts to microgrid-enabled EV chargers.
Underserved Communities
Businesses and nonprofits in disadvantaged or rural communities are encouraged to apply.
If you’re unsure where to start, try our project pre-screening tool.
It can help you determine whether your initiative meets the Electrify Fund’s requirements.
Eligible Projects
A wide range of vehicles qualify for the Electrify Fund. This includes fleet vehicles such as delivery and passenger vans, school and municipal buses, e-bike fleets, and heavy-duty trucks, as well as battery-powered and other zero-emissions equipment such as forklifts, lawnmowers, tractors and more. Additionally, funding can cover the development and installation of EV charging infrastructure, including microgrid-enabled chargers that provide reliable and resilient power in diverse settings.
By transitioning to electric vehicles/equipment and installing charging infrastructure, your organization can lead the way in sustainability, cost savings, and community impact. Mountain BizWorks’ Electrify Fund provides the resources, expertise, and support to make the process seamless.
Together, we can drive WNC toward a cleaner, more vibrant future.
FAQs
Absolutely. EV charging stations are not just environmentally progressive; they’re economically savvy. Many business owners are finding that installing public or private charging stations increases traffic to their locations, boosts productivity for staff using EVs, and enhances brand reputation.
Yes. With more EV drivers seeking reliable charging points, offering this service can generate additional revenue streams. EV chargers present a promising income opportunity from pay-per-use models to subscription services.
By adopting EVs and charging stations, businesses help reduce regional emissions while participating in local efforts to combat climate change. These initiatives also spur economic growth, create jobs, and position the region as a leader in clean transportation.
The Joint Office of Energy and Transportation and the U.S. Department of Energy both offer funding opportunities, such as rebates for EV chargers, fast chargers, and clean transportation initiatives.
Yes, the Electrify Fund focuses on improving clean energy access for rural and underserved populations.