Building Trust, Bridging Gaps: My Journey to Green Energy Justice

For over 15 years, Blair Bolden has honed his skills in building strong client relationships. Whether in startups or large enterprises, his approach centers on building trust where partnerships can flourish. This foundation allowed him to deeply understand organizational needs and offer solutions tailored for genuine growth.

Growing up in Richmond, CA, and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, he was instilled with a passion for community service. He has devoted decades to supporting communities of color and low-income communities and is excited to bring that expertise and passion to Banyan Infrastructure. 

You come from a tech business background and grew up in a community affected by environmental issues. How does that shape your approach?

Growing up in Richmond, California, I witnessed firsthand the environmental injustices faced by places like my hometown. To this day, communities of color often carry a heavier burden of pollution and environmental degradation. Meanwhile, my experience in Silicon Valley opened my eyes to the power of innovation and how technology can help bridge gaps within our society.

This dual perspective drives me. I'm passionate about using my business development skills and my knowledge of community needs to bridge the gap. I want to ensure that the green energy revolution translates into quality jobs, improved living conditions, and genuine empowerment for those in LIDAC (low-income disadvantaged communities).

How do you envision building trust and ensuring community voices are heard?

My experience taught me that simply consulting communities isn't enough. It's about creating authentic relationships, fostering a sense of ownership, and ensuring that the benefits of a clean energy future are equitably shared. This takes time and a willingness to listen and adapt.

Technology can bridge the gap by facilitating open communication, collaboration, and transparent reporting. Streamlined processes empower green banks and community funds to focus on their core mission, while clear impact data builds trust with investors.

‍What excites you most about the potential of the GGRF and Justice40 Initiatives?

These programs offer a chance to right historical wrongs. They can help clean up communities like mine while creating pathways to well-paying green careers. It's not just about the environment; it's about economic empowerment and a more just society.

I'm eager to connect with individuals and organizations who share this vision. Together, we can build a cleaner, more equitable future for all.