Programs
GBNN Programs
GBNN empowers members through its programs and resources to leverage collective expertise to strengthen their programs, and the national voice of small business sustainability.
National Networking
Through our monthly all-member meetings and working groups, we provide members with the opportunity to meet fellow GBNN member programs, sharing resources, tips, and lessons learned from green business program practitioners across the country. GBNN members have decades of combined experience, and by facilitating conversation and relationship-building, members can explore new avenues for sustainable business development and evolve existing programming.
Sector-Based Technical Support and Training
Through our Sector-Based Technical Support and Training program, we provide members with the resources and industry expertise needed to support diverse business sectors. Our training covers sector-specific best practices and technologies, enabling members to effectively help businesses reduce pollution and expand their own program offerings.
Advancing Equity in Green Business Programs
Through our partnership with Monarca Group, we provide GBNN members with training and tools to deepen their impact with hard-to-reach populations. Through our Equitable and Inclusive Community Outreach Program, we provide the workshops, digital tools, and translated resources needed to dismantle systemic barriers facing minority-owned businesses. By centering equity at our National Summit and sharing strategies across our network, we ensure all business programs, inside and outside GBNN, can build a more sustainable, inclusive economy.
Member Education
GBNN fosters a collaborative network through consistent educational and networking opportunities. Members stay ahead of industry trends and exchange best practices through our monthly meetings, webinars, and the GBNN National Summit. This flagship event, held in person every two years in member cities and virtually during off years, brings together green business leaders to advance best sustainability practices for small businesses nationwide. It provides a unique space to connect with peers who are empowering local businesses to lead in sustainability.
Member Spotlight
GBNN’s strength lies in the diversity of its programs. These include certification initiatives, technical assistance providers, networks, regional challenges, and more – all united by a commitment to small business sustainability.
Founded in 2000, the Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN) is a voluntary program that encourages, supports, and rewards organizations that push toward true, operational sustainability. Their goal is to support organizations throughout Colorado at any level of implementation in increasing the efficiency and sustainability of their operation through assessing opportunities for growth, recognizing success, and providing connections to like-minded businesses throughout the state. Learn more about last year’s accomplishments on their 2025 impact report.
- Technical Assistance: Free off-site coaching & on-site assistance to support businesses in implementing sustainability and resource reduction into their operations.
- Workshops & Events: Regular skill building and educational opportunities.
- Recognition: Award opportunities, press kits, and certificates to help tell the story of your sustainable operations.
Curb It Awards
The City of Boise’s Curb It team oversees Boise’s trash, recycling, compost, and other solid waste programs. In 2025, the team launched the Curb It Awards Program to celebrate local businesses making meaningful strides in sustainable waste practices by reducing waste, recycling effectively, and supporting a cleaner, greener Boise. In its first year, 19 businesses earned Pioneer and Champion awards for actions such as expanding composting, adding glass recycling, and improving waste bin signage. Now, the 2026 awards are open for businesses to apply and for community members to nominate local leaders in sustainable waste management.
Resources Library
Access a comprehensive collection of materials created and shared by GBNN members:
- Toolkits & Guides (e.g., Green Business Certification Checklist)
- Data & Reports on green business trends and impacts
- Case Studies highlighting success stories
Resources Library
Access a comprehensive collection of materials created and shared by GBNN members:
- Toolkits & Guides (e.g., Green Business Certification Checklist)
- Data & Reports on green business trends and impacts
- Case Studies highlighting success stories
