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NVDA: e-Newsletter - August 2024

Submitted by tim on

Regional Planning & Economic Development in the Northeast Kingdom

David Snedeker, Executive Director [email protected]    

Community Announcements

VCRD 2024 Vermont Community Leadership Summit / VT State University, Randolph

Join hundreds of community builders from across the state on August 6th. The theme is Forge Forward, Thrive Together! Attendees are invited to participate in any session of interest, or follow themed "participation pathways" with optional sessions related to Climate Resilience & Long-term Recovery; Youth Leadership & Engagement; or Understanding & Solving Vermont's Persistent Challenges. See the Agenda Register online and learn more Here

Catamount Arts Receives NBRC Award

The $475,000 grant will be used to renovate and revitalize the new Catamount Arts Creative Campus project in the center of St. Johnsbury. Executive Director Jody Fried has worked tirelessly for over a decade, to bring vitality and prosperity to the region through the Creative Sector community. Congratulations to the entire Catamount team!

Congratulations Craftsbury Saplings!

The Northern Border Regional Commission announced that Craftsbury Saplings received a $1M grant to enlarge their childcare facility in response to unmet community demand. The award is part of the highly competitive Catalyst Program's spring competition. Seven Vermont towns received grant funding made available through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

State Designations Update: Good News!

With the passage of Act 181, renewal applications and check-ins are no longer required for downtown designation, village center designation, neighborhood development area, new town center, and growth center designations. Municipalities no longer need to renew their state designations. To learn more about Act 181 and other legislative changes from the 2024 session, check out DHCD Legislative Summary

Rural Wastewater Challenges

There are a few communities in the NEK looking to address their wastewater needs. This resource may be of interest. Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap is an EPA initiative supported through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that could potentially benefit rural Vermont communities struggling with failing septic systems, or inadequate wastewater infrastructure. A pilot program has been assisting 11 communities since 2022 and the program is ready to serve an additional 150. The initiative isn't construction money. It's free technical assistance to help communities begin the process to achieve their goals of safe sanitation. Vermont's Office of Wastewater Management is conducting outreach to raise awareness and get help identifying communities that might be interested in receiving free tech assistance. Water TA Request Form Learn more

New FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps Are Being Developed

FEMA is updating the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) in Vermont for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This will be the first map update for many towns since the 70s or 80s. Some Vermont counties received official "digital" FIRMs in 2007 but most of the flood hazard areas did not get fresh studies. This new update will cover the entire state in stages and may become effective in some counties as soon as 2025. Learn more

Emergency Assistance & Resources

Sign Up for VT Alert Notifications

VT Alert informs the public of emergency situations like the flood events we've been experiencing lately. Registrants can add "quiet hours" for when they don't want to receive alerts. For more information: https://vem.vermont.gov/vtalert

Document and Report All Damage to 211

Reporting damage is essential, no matter how large or small. Take pictures / videos and save receipts to keep track of expenses. Reporting is a key piece as the state tracks flood damage to make a case for federal disaster declaration. If granted, it will unlock resources for repairing and rebuilding. Report online https://vermont211.org, or dial 211 (or) 802/652-4636. Use the Resident Form (or) Business Form.

Flood Recovery Center in Lyndon is Open!

VT Emergency Management (VEM) has opened four Flood Recovery Centers where state, public and private entities come together to provide assistance to those affected by damaging floods in the area. The Lyndon location is at VT State University campus, Grey House 180 Vail Drive, Tuesdays & Saturdays, 9:30 am -6:00 pm. Learn more

VT Emergency Management (VEM) Property Buyouts

VEM is making it easier for municipalities to participate in the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program for property buyouts. Municipalities should fill out the pre-application form form by Aug 16th in order to ensure properties are appraised based upon their pre-flood value. Properties that apply later, under future funding rounds, will be appraised based on post-flood value. VEM Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)

Links to more Flood Disaster Assistance:

 

Need Assistance? NVDA staff members can help:

Bruce Melendy, Emergency Management Specialist [email protected]

Doug Morton, Sr. Transportation Planner [email protected]

Liam Abbate, Transportation Planner [email protected]

Annie McLean, Community & Economic Specialist [email protected]

Kyle Dwyer, Regional Planner [email protected]

Dave Snedeker, NVDA Ex. Director [email protected]

Flood Relief for Individuals

The nonprofit based in St. Johnsbury, Locally Social Gives, Inc, has set up a flood relief fund to provide quick, flexible flood relief (up to $1,500) for NEK residents in need of support. The direct link to the fund is Here If applying online is a barrier, reach out to Cari Carlet [email protected] and Brooke Pierce [email protected].

Vermont Main Street Flood Recovery Fund for Businesses - Donations Welcome

The Fund has been reopened to support Vermont's small independently owned businesses with grants of up to $2,500 for equipment replacement, operating expenses, supplies, clean-up, etc. Grant application The Fund was developed last year in the wake of 2023's flooding event and is actively accepting additional donations for 2024 damage. Learn more Donors may also send checks to: Capstone Community Action, 20 Gable Place, Barre VT 05641 (Make a notation on the check that the donation is for Main Street Recovery Fund) Questions? Contact Annie McLean [email protected]

Flood Relief for Businesses - NCIC Loan Program

NCIC has established a small emergency loan fund for businesses in the NEK impacted by July flooding. Borrowers may apply for up to $3,000. Limited funds will be disbursed on a first come, first served basis. Contact Peter Corey for questions and an application: [email protected].

Flood Damage Survey for Businesses

The VT Agency of Commerce & Community Development is requesting that victims of both of the July flooding events complete the 2024 Flood Damage Survey for Businesses. Survey data will be used to inform response efforts, allocate resources, and advocate for future relief and recovery programs. *Please note that damage should also be reported to Vermont 211 at Vermont211.org. All data reported to Vermont 211 is being used only to assess the damage as it applies to a federal disaster declaration. This survey does not replicate that reporting.

LVRT Flood Damage Updates

Some sections of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail are closed and/or have detours around hazards or construction areas marking infrastructure damage from previous and recent flooding. Check the website for latest updates: Here

Business Announcements

New Unemployment Mandate for Small Nonprofits

As of July 1st, all Vermont employers, regardless of size, must participate in unemployment insurance for their employees. Before this law (Act 76) was passed, nonprofits with fewer than 4 employees were exempt from participating in the insurance program. Visit the Department of Labor website for more information Here

Employment Opportunity: Caledonia Food Co-op Project Manager

The Caledonia Food Co-op seeks consulting services to coordinate funding, design, and renovation of its 12,000 sq.ft. store in downtown St. Johnsbury. The consultant may be an individual or a company for 20-30 hours/week for approximately one year. Visit the website, caledoniafood.coop for details. RFP submissions are due August 7th.

Kingdom Trails - Employment Opportunity

Kingdom Trails is accepting applications for a Community Collaboration Director. Find the job description Here. Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter by July 29th to Abby Long, Executive Director [email protected]

NEKCA Micro Business Desk Series

Thinking about starting a business? Sign up for free workshop sessions and build a solid foundation around your ideas. Dustin Smith, NEK Micro Business Coach will host the FUN & FREE Wednesday noon series. Attend any or all five sessions. Contact [email protected] for more information and sign up. Learn more about MBDP Here

ClimateReadyVT - Accepting Applications for Fall 2024 Cohort

ClimateReadyVT is a no cost program helping small businesses in Vermont adapt to the changing climate and prepare for climate-related business disruptions. The program provides a 6-step framework for creating a Climate Action Resilience Plan leveraging tools, resources and guidance. Apply by August 23rd.

Career Training & Adult Education Courses

Vermont State University - Lyndon, Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship

https://vermontstate.edu/about-us/workforce-community-and-economic-development-at-vermont-state/

Vermont Technical College - Vermont State University) 2 campuses: Williston & Randolph https://vermontstate.edu/ Division of Workforce, Community & Economic Development

North Country Career Center, Newport https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/home

Contact Chris Damato (802) 334-5469 x3305 [email protected]

St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Education

Contact Sandra Mings Lamar (802) 748-7738 [email protected]

Lyndon Institute Career & Technical Education Center https://www.lyndoninstitute.org/academics/career-technical-education

Contact [email protected] or Michelle Parson, Work-based Learning Coordinator, [email protected].

Canaan School CTE Program

Chuck Patterson, Coordinator of Curriculum, [email protected] or call (802) 266-8910

Sterling College School of the New American Farmstead https://www.ce.sterlingcollege.edu Contact [email protected]

Funding Opportunities for Communities & Businesses

  • 2024 Downtown & Village Center Tax Credit Program The tax credit program helps to stimulate private investment by supporting the creation and improvement of rental housing. Successful projects range from modest renovations in small village centers to multimillion-dollar downtown redevelopments. The program creates jobs and supports general rehabilitation, code compliance work, facade improvements, and flood mitigation upgrades. 2024 Downtown & Village Center Tax Credit Program For assistance contact Annie McLean [email protected]
  • Municipal Park & Ride Grant Program If your community has an interest in developing a Park & Ride Facility and would like to receive a grant to do so, fill out the VTrans application online and submit it electronically before Aug 20th. Communities that were unsuccessful in the past are encouraged to reapply. Developed plans are not necessary. Visit the website Here For assistance contact Doug Morton [email protected]
  • USDA Community Facilities Grant/Loan Program USDA has funding remaining with an August application deadline. Because of the short timeline, the best use of these Community Facilities funds would be for equipment purchases. Visit the website for more information and contact information Community Facilities Program
  • Community Wellness Grants The VT Governor's Council on Physical Fitness & Sports is seeking proposals to provide funding for the development of new community wellness initiatives, improvement of existing wellness programs, and/or collaboration between wellness initiatives across the state. Contact Valerie Valcour [email protected] for complete information. Proposals are due Sept 6th.
  • 2024-25 Recreational Trails Grants - Next Round in October Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funding for trail maintenance and construction of municipal and nonprofit trail projects across the state. Visit the website for the timeline and key information Here (Note: This grant program cannot fund any emergency response work, but if there is a longer-term trail project for recovery or deferred maintenance, this might be an opportunity to consider.)
  • Municipal Technical Assistance Program (MTAP) Often, small rural towns in need of investment lack in-house capacity to develop local projects and access grant funds. The Vermont Council on Rural Development is offering free technical support services through MTAP. Need help to review assets and needs and prioritize projects, or help with grant-writing, permit applications, or regulatory compliance? Learn more by contacting Jessica Savage, VCRD's Director of Community Collaboration [email protected].
  • Rural Fire Protection Grant Program The installation of new dry hydrants and other types of rural water supplies is still the program priority, but eligible projects may include repair/upgrade, replacement, or relocation of existing rural water supplies (whether previously grant funded or not), and drafting site development. visit vacd.org/programs/rural-fire-protection to download the application packet or contact Troy Dare (802) 828-4582 to have an application mailed.
  • State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) The VT International Trade Division will manage STEP, a grant program for small businesses to compete globally by offsetting the cost of export-related activities like foreign trade missions, export trade shows, training workshops, or designing international marketing campaigns. 2024 STEP grants are awarded on a rolling basis. Visit www.accd.vermont.gov/STEP
  • Newport Small Business Technical Assistance Program Newport Downtown Development is offering funding for technical assistance services for small businesses located in the Designated Newport City Downtown. Reimbursable grant funds can cover up to 100% of the project. NCIC is assisting in the management of these funds. For more information, questions or application, contact Aimee Quimby, [email protected] 802) 748-5101 x2019.
  • Town of Lyndon Fund The Lyndon Small Business Fund was established to support both the development of new businesses in Lyndon and the growth of existing small businesses. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis over a two-year period. NVDA will manage the program. Half the funding will be dispersed in 2024 and half in 2025. Click here to fill out a short application or contact Annie McLean for more information [email protected].
  • Funding Cycle Open: FFY2024 Clean Water Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWSRF) The VT Agency of Natural Resources is soliciting a project priority list. Planning and design funds are available at any time, however, any project that requires construction funding must be on the priority list. For more information and applications visit Priority Lists - CWSRF & DWSRF
  • Better Places Grants If your town is thinking of more parks and green spaces, a vibrant main street, public art, and community gardens, Better Places grants can help. The statewide program is supported by VT Department of Housing & Community Development, VT Department of Health, and VT Community Foundation. Projects are accepted on a rolling basis. Visit the website: Better Places
  • Community Heart & Soul The Community Heart & Soul Seed Grant Program is uniquely designed for small cities and towns (population 2,500-30,000). Successful applicants will receive $10,000 grants to match funding from a participating municipality or a partnering organization. Apply Here. Awards are made on a rolling basis.

 

Funding for VT Farm, Food & Forestry Sectors

  • Agriculture Funding Opportunities: The VT Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets maintains a website of grants, loans and financial assistance that targets specific agricultural needs Here. View the VAAFM Grants Calendar. The Agency offers a newsletter: VT Ag Bulletin Sign up
  • Farm to Plate is Vermont's food system plan. The plan is being implemented statewide to increase economic development and jobs in the farm and food sector; improve soils, water, and resiliency of the working landscape in the face of climate change; and improve access to healthy local food for all Vermonters. Learn more and sign up for their newsletter Here

Funding for the Arts

Artist Development Grants: New & Improved Application Process! The Vermont Arts Council is now accepting applications for the Artist Development Grants, which support artists at all stages of their careers. The grants fund activities that enhance mastery of an artist's craft or skills or that increase the viability of an artist's business. Grants are up to $2,000 and there are two rounds each year .Learn more

Loan Programs

  • NEK Prosperity Fund The NEK Prosperity Fund is a project of NEK Prosper, NEK Community Action (NEKCA), and Community Capital of VT. The fund was created to organize and focus investment on equity and population health. Loan recipients will receive business support services from NEKCA's financial and business counselors. NEK Prosper
  • USDA RD Home Repair Loan Program Federal regulations have made it easier for low-income rural residents to rehab and modernize their homes through USDA 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants. The program provides funding for single family housing to remove health and safety hazards.
  • Vermont Community Loan Fund The VCLF is a community-focused alternative lender that provides loans and other resources to local businesses, organizations, early care & learning providers, and developers of affordable housing who don't qualify for a loan from a traditional lender. For more information visit the website Here
  • Northeast Kingdom Special Loan Program The VT Economic Development Authority (VEDA) is offering low interest loans under its Small Business Program to growing qualified businesses in Essex, Caledonia and Orleans Counties. The NEK Program can make loans of up to $150,000 for fixed asset acquisition or for working capital purposes. Contact Sandy Croft at (802) 828-5472 [email protected].
  • NVDA Revolving Loan Program The Northeastern Vermont Development Association has a limited amount of loan funds available for businesses in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans Counties. Funds may be used for the purchase of real property and equipment, working capital, and feasibility studies. For more information contact Tina Gonyaw [email protected] (802) 748-1220 www.nvda.net. The NVDA EPA Revolving Loan Fund is available to businesses and municipalities for brownfield cleanup projects! Contact [email protected].
  • Efficiency Vermont Energy Loan  The loan program offers affordable financing options to help residents and business customers move forward with energy efficiency projects designed to deliver savings and spur the economy. Energy Loan 

 

Incentive Programs for Vermont Businesses

  • VT Employment Growth Incentive Program (VEGI) Vermont offers an economic incentive for business recruitment, growth and expansion. The VEGI program provides financial incentives to qualified businesses that meet performance requirements. Authorization occurs through an application to the VT Economic Progress Council. For more information, visit http://accd.vermont.gov/economic-development/funding-incentives/vegi or contact Jessica Hartleben [email protected]     
  • VT Training Program (VTP) The Vermont Training Program can be used to train new employees or existing employees if the training is needed for new equipment or technology. VTP can pay up to 50% of an employee's wages/salary during the training period - for pre-employment, new hire, and/or incumbent employee training. Are your employees eligible? Contact John Young, Director of Workforce Development Programs (802) 355-2725 [email protected]. VTP

Business Resources

  • VT Manufacturing Extension Center Visit the VMEC website and check out current postings for learning opportunities involving professional development, coaching, and hands-on training for manufacturers and their employees at all levels. VMEC
  • Vermont APEX Accelerator (formerly VT PTAC) VT APEX Accelerator provides businesses with free one-on-one counseling services, technical assistance, and market research to understand the requirements of government contracting. Visit the website Here for a list of workshops with sign-up information. Questions? Contact Brenda Plastridge [email protected].
  • VHCB Farm & Forest Viability Program The program mission is to enhance the economic viability of Vermont farms and forestry enterprises. Business coaching services are offered to eligible farmers, agriculturally-related businesses, forest products enterprises, and forest landowners. VHCB
  • VT Department of Labor For Information about job openings and training opportunities by region and industry visit labor.vermont.gov/jobs. VDOL provides free services to employers to help recruit, train and retain a high quality workforce. Labor.vermont.gov/jobs
  • VT Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) Experienced business advisors are available by email, phone or video conferencing. Do you need help constructing financial statements or application forms for recovery relief funding? For free customized service, contact: Heidi Krantz [email protected] , Heather Gonyaw [email protected], or Rick Daniell [email protected]
  • Micro Business Development (MBDP) An experienced business coach can help with business financials, marketing plans, and access to financing for low-to-moderate-income entrepreneurs form Caledonia, Essex and Orleans County. Contact Dustin Smith, NEK Community Action [email protected] (802) 323-9010 for free coaching. www.nekcavt.org
  • NEK Collaborative (NEKC) The Collaborative's mission is to improve the quality of life for all residents in the NEK through coordinated economic and community-supported development. www.nekcollaborative.org.

Looking for Commercial Space?

[email protected] (802) 748-8303 [email protected] (802) 748-1220

Commercial Building Lots for Sale: St. Johnsbury-Lyndon Industrial Park

& Orleans Industrial Park (water & sewer available)  

Northeastern Vermont Development Association  www.nvda.net   

St. Johnsbury Office: 802.748-5181 Fax: 802.748-1223

NVDA is the regional planning and development organization serving Caledonia, Essex and Orleans Counties - An equal opportunity lender, provider and employer.

This monthly newsletter is made possible in part by a grant from the State of Vermont through the Agency of Commerce & Community Development