The fifth cohort will kick off soon with an in-person meeting, but most meetings are held over Zoom. This photo shows the second cohort’s kickoff meeting.

CHICAGO (Aug. 18, 2026) — The Caucus is about to start its EV Readiness Program fifth cohort, with a kickoff meeting in September or October. Although there are over a dozen municipalities in this cohort, we still have space for a few more communities, if you had missed our previous deadline. Please fill out the brief application today, as we will soon be sending out a scheduling poll for the kickoff meeting. The remaining spots in the cohort will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Program Overview

The EV Readiness Program helps municipalities prepare for transportation electrification by offering free technical assistance and training on all aspects of EVs and EV charging. Participating communities receive support to update zoning codes, streamline permitting, train first responders, assess fleet electrification opportunities – especially important during this time of high gas prices, engage residents and businesses, and more. The program makes implementation easier for communities by providing templates, model code language, examples from the 45 local governments that have completed the program, peer learning in a cohort setting, and guest speakers who share the latest innovations and case studies from the field. Participants gain knowledge and resources to prepare their community for the growing adoption of EVs, expansion of EV charging infrastructure, and future funding opportunities as they arise. There is no cost to participate.

To learn more about the EV Readiness Program, watch the recorded EV Readiness Program Info Session or go to the EV Readiness Program webpage.