Robert & Patricia Switzer Foundation

To provide capacity-building funds and support for a collaboration between Mexican-based International Renewable Resources Institute (IRRI) and its U.S.-based partner organization, Solar Energy International.  Solar Energy International (SEI), a U.S.-based organization with a home base in Colorado, will act as fiscal sponsor and collaborative partner with IRRI in Mexico. IRRI has hired Alex Eaton as its full time Executive Director to be based in Mexico City.  SEI will work with IRRI as its Mexican affiliate organization, offering its portfolio of renewable energy installation course curriculum and trainings while at the same time expanding its base of contacts in Mexico. IRRI offers training courses and workshops for professionals, decision makers, government agency personnel, college students, and community members on renewable energy and water management in Mexico. Alex will spend the bulk of his time in the coming year implementing plans for the courses and workshops that IRRI will offer, both in partnership with SEI and on its own.