#1 Cochran Presents $10K Check to Brite Energy

BOARDMAN, Ohio – Brite Energy Innovators and #1 Cochran Chevrolet Buick GMC have formed a strategic partnership to help build clean energy ventures in the region.

The partnership, along with a $10,000 check presented to Brite Energy from #1 Cochran, was announced during a press conference at the dealership’s Buick GMC showroom.

“For us to continue doing our work, we need philanthropic support; we need sponsorship support,” said Rick Stockburger, president and CEO of Brite. “This funding is crucial for us to do our mission, which is bringing forward this clean energy ecosystem across the state and specifically here in the Mahoning Valley.”

Stockburger said the $10,000 would be matched dollar-for-dollar by the state of Ohio, enabling Brite to continue funding early-stage energy companies from its offices in downtown Warren.

The partnership is especially poignant as the automotive industry begins its transition to electric vehicles, says Derek Snyder, platform director at #1 Cochran Chevrolet Buick GMC.

“Our manufacturers are committed to a 100% EV future, so it makes sense to play off that synergy that they have leaned into wholeheartedly,” he said of Brite.

Snyder said a similar partnership between the dealership’s previous franchise owner, Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC, was formed and it will continue with #1 Cochran.

“We remain committed to this Valley’s EV future,” he said.

On Saturday, Oct. 14, #1 Cochran and Brite will present EV Fest at the Buick GMC dealership.  The event will feature some of the newest electric vehicles in General Motors’ lineup.  

Pictured at top: Rick Stockburger, left, president and CEO of Brite Energy Innovators, and Derek Snyder, platform director at #1 Cochran Chevrolet Buick GMC.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.