The Urban Green Partnership will use a phased approach to grow our organization. Since late 2005 we have been used most of our resources to do research and support other organizations. The summary of this preliminary research is contained within this document.
As we move into summer of 2007 UGP plans to bring on a team of 5 individuals to complete feasibility studies. Two studies; one for the Big Green Building, and one for the UGP marketing and Education campaign. These studies will dive deeper into the marketing and building ideas and determine if the ideas could flourish here in Philadelphia and further refine numbers and arguments. UGP is currently looking for funding for this phase. We have estimated the two studies will cost $600,000 dollars and will be completed by July 2007. Phase one will create accurate cost estimates, integrated schedules, detailed development plans and strategies, and raise matching start up capital.
Upon completion of these feasibility studies UGP will search for a funding of phase two if the study’s results are favorable. We will share our phase one studies openly to encourage both peer review / validation and to enhance the capabilities of local organizations. Phase two will initially be the design of the Big Green Building and the growth of the UGP organization. In mid 2008 UGP will start its energy education and marketing programs. This phase will cost approximately 40 million and take UGP through the end of 2009. Phase two will result in the completion of the BIG Green Building, region wide Education and Marketing programs, the launching of the Econexus green web portal, and the functional use of the Urban Sustainability Research Center for green product testing.
Post phase two UGP will look to transition from state, federal and private startup funds to internal income streams. This will allow UGP to work independently for the good of the region while not being a burden on the limited state, local and private funds earmarked for environmental organizations. If during this time UGP’s income sources exceed our expenses UGP itself will look to become a foundation with the hopes of helping start and support the next generation of big ideas.
