Working toward a more just and resilient future: Sustainable Growth Coalition’s 2024 impact 

In 2024, the Sustainable Growth Coalition (SGC) deepened its commitment to an equitable and circular economy, creating opportunities for members to connect, learn, and take action. A renewed strategic vision, a focus on creating meaningful opportunities for connection, and the integration of environmental justice shaped the coalition’s work last year. 

In March, members adopted a new strategic framework that envisions a future where all energy is renewable, waste is eliminated, and natural, social, and human resources are protected. This vision reinforces SGC’s role as a hub for collective action, driving sustainable business practices that benefit people, the economy, and the environment. 

Throughout the year, SGC provided space for learning and relationship-building. Experts from Trellis (formerly GreenBiz), TrueNorth Collective, and EcoTone Analytics led conversations on sustainable procurement, biodiversity, and nature-based solutions. The summer gathering at the Minneapolis American Indian Center brought together coalition members, Environmental Initiative Award winners, and community partners to exchange ideas. This annual meeting started in 2023 and has already connected a solar energy company with Minnesota’s agricultural water quality certification personnel.  

Workgroups also continued to meet and collaborate on projects. Some members focused on developing sustainability resources for small and mid-sized businesses, helping them navigate funding and opportunities on a local and state level. Another group created an environmental justice workbook focused on community, designed to help businesses center those most impacted in their decision-making. In line with their recommendations in the workbook, members extended the project timeline to allow for meaningful community review of a draft rather than collecting input after finalizing the tool. 

Looking ahead, SGC will build on this momentum. In 2025, the coalition plans to finalize and launch the environmental justice workbook, expand learning and networking opportunities, and recruit new members. By continuing to foster collaboration and action, SGC is helping shape a more sustainable, just, and resilient future. 

Interested in getting involved? Learn more about how the Sustainable Growth Coalition is advancing a circular economy that works for all →