SOUTH LOOP — When it comes to greening initiatives, having a great idea is only half the battle.
Startup capital is key: that's why the Alliance for a Greener South Loop will award a $1,000 grant to the best idea for improving environmental friendliness in the neighborhood for the fifth annual "Greener Together" contest.
It's the first time that the annual event will include a cash prize. Previously, "Greener Together" celebrated buildings, businesses and other South Loop organizations with recognition for existing green efforts at an awards ceremony, according to alliance president Gail Merritt.
The competition, which officially launched Sunday, will accept proposals online for projects that either piggyback on an existing initiative, or start from scratch, until Nov. 22.
"We're hoping for something really fun and creative," Merritt said. "We know that a lot of people have great ideas out there. Helping them feel like they have the resources to implement them is what this contest is about."
Judges will be looking for the most "engaging and green community project" for the South Loop, Merritt said. The winner will be announced Dec. 5, and will have four months to implement the project.
The prize is sponsored by South Loop businesses Daystar Center, Draper and Kramer, Forth Group Management Company, Grace Place Episcopal Church and the partner community group South Loop Neighbors.
