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City of Riverside Green Business Program
Reflections from the Riverside Downtown Business Partnership Luncheon on 1/28/25
At the Riverside Downtown Business Partnership Luncheon this January, we had the opportunity to discuss a vital initiative: helping small and medium-sized businesses adopt sustainable practices through the City of Riverside’s partnership with California Green Business Network (CAGBN). The City recently relaunched the City of Riverside Green Business Program, available at NO COST to Riverside businesses. The event brought together business owners, city officials, and sustainability advocates to explore how local businesses can benefit from going green.
Why Sustainability Matters for Riverside Businesses
At the luncheon, we highlighted the fact that small businesses are often left out of sustainability efforts, despite their significant role in local economies. To address this gap, the City of Riverside and the California Green Business Network are working together to provide technical assistance, incentives, and recognition to businesses that take steps to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and conserve water.
Key Takeaways from the Luncheon
✔ Sustainability Saves Money – Many local businesses have already implemented simple, cost-effective measures such as switching to LED lighting, using water-efficient fixtures, and improving recycling programs. These changes lower operating costs while making businesses more resilient.
✔ Recognition Matters – Certified Green Businesses receive visibility through city promotions, social media, and public recognition. Businesses that take the initiative to go green can differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
✔ The Process is Straightforward – The Green Business certification process involves an online registration, a walk-through assessment, and access to rebates and expert guidance. The goal is to make sustainability accessible for all businesses, regardless of size.
Next Steps: Join the Movement by Earth Day 2025!
The event underscored that now is the perfect time for Riverside businesses to take action. By starting the certification process now, businesses can complete their certification in time for Earth Day 2025, positioning themselves as leaders in the community’s sustainability efforts.
How to Get Started:
Visit www.greenbusinessca.org/cityofriverside to learn more about the program and begin your certification journey. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Questions? Contact us at scassidy@environmentalin.com.
Thank you to the Riverside Downtown Business Partnership for hosting such an engaging discussion. Together, we can build a greener, more sustainable business community in Riverside!
RDP Welcomes New Businesses to Downtown
Esthetician
Gina Beauty Makeup
Good Samaritan Medical Group
Hope Esthetics
Inside Ink (Crafts, Hobbies)
JZS’ Auto Detail Supply LLC
Lucy Willbanks (Misc. Retail)
Mandi Express ( Food)
Nurselink Solution, Inc.
Segovia Research & Analysis. LLC
SoCal Virtual Tours (Photography)
Super Foam Corp (Consulting)
Wellbeing LLC (Home Furnishings)
Small Business Direct Install Program and Outdoor Lighting Program
Riverside Public Utilities direct install programs are still available and beginning a new program year for 2025. The Small Business Direct Installation Program provides qualifying businesses with installation of new high-efficiency lighting and other energy-efficient measures to reduce customer’s energy costs.
Program Info: https://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/businesses/rebates/energy-rebates/small-business-direct-install-program-and-outdoor-lighting-program
Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) has contracted with Richard Heath and Associates (RHA) to provide technical assistance and energy efficiency upgrades for local businesses. Customers can sign-up at: https://rharpuefficiency.com/
To contact the City’s Economic Development team, call 951-826-2438
or email econdev@riversideeca.gov
To download a copy of the guide, go to https://online.fliphtml5.com/ltghc/jvru/#p=6
Promote Your Business On These Websites!
Visit Riverside
Visit Riverside is an innovative online platform designed to be the go-to destination for discovering the vibrant array of businesses, attractions, and experiences in Riverside, California. The website serves as a comprehensive guide, spotlighting the diverse spectrum of local businesses, events, and hidden gems that make Riverside a unique and thriving community. From showcasing the finest dining spots, entertainment venues, cultural landmarks, to providing insights into exciting activities and events, Visit Riverside is the ultimate resource for exploring and experiencing the best of what Riverside has to offer for residents and visitors alike.
Businesses can gain significant exposure and numerous benefits by submitting their information to be featured on Visit Riverside’s website. This exposure not only increases brand recognition but also opens doors to new customer acquisition opportunities. Additionally, inclusion on Visit Riverside provides businesses with a valuable promotional channel, allowing them to showcase their offerings, unique services, or products to a targeted audience interested in exploring the city. Submit your business to Visit Riverside to elevate your business and connect with the Riverside’s thriving landscape. To do so, go to https://visitriverside.com/submit
Discover Riverside
Discover Riverside is the Riverside Convention and Visitors Center website designed to promote the city and the Riverside Convention Center as a great location for conventions, meetings, and other events. It is a resource for meeting planners and visitors, and provides information about the RCVB, sports commission and Convention Center. It also highlights downtown Riverside’s food and drink option as well as things to do in the downtown area.
To be featured on the website or on the RCVB’s social channels, email Mary.Kate@LittleMarketingGroup.com OR tag @DiscoverRiverside on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/discoverriverside/?hl=en
To submit an event for the website, fill out the online form with event information and a photo/graphic. https://riversidecvb.com/things-to-do/events/submit-your-event/
Check out RDP’s Pocket and Dining Guide which is available on our website or at the RDP office.