Vermont Chamber News
Vermont Chamber of Commerce Will we see you at Vermont’s premier workforce development event? The Vermont Chamber’s 2024 Solutions Summit is dedicated to transforming how we approach and address the challenges of the modern job market. This dynamic event will be held on September 25, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington.
The Solutions Summit is designed to address the most pressing issues in workforce development and provide actionable solutions to advance Vermont’s economy. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of shaping the future of work in our state. Secure your spot to engage with leaders, educators, and policymakers dedicated to transforming our workforce landscape.
Help Information the Chamber's Work
The Vermont Chamber continues to work diligently on behalf of the Vermont business community, even while the Legislature is not in session. As we speak with our members around the state, there is a troubling theme growing about the mounting challenges within Vermont’s business climate. We encourage you to take five minutes to complete our business survey to provide crucial insights for our advocacy team as we prepare for the upcoming legislative session.
The 2024 Manufacturing Summit
Join the Vermont Chamber at the Manufacturing Summit on November 13-14, 2024, where Vermont's manufacturing sector takes center stage. This reimagined event offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry peers, suppliers, and potential business partners from across Vermont, New England, and Canada. Discover actionable strategies and resources to enhance your business operations, explore new growth opportunities, and gain insights into the latest trends shaping the future of manufacturing. Don’t miss this chance to build a more resilient supply chain and drive your business forward.
Vermont Chamber Joins Employee Wellness Partnership
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce recently announced its participation in the Employee Wellness Partnership, a statewide initiative coordinated by Workplace Compliance and Wellness Vermont (WCWV). The program brings together companies, organizations, and resource providers to reduce suicide and overdose deaths in Vermont by promoting a culture of care and empathy within workplaces and communities.
Vermont Chamber Announces New Board Members and Leadership
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce welcomed seven new Directors to the Board: Hillary Burrows of Autumn Harp, Renée Grzankowski of Vermont Economic Development Authority, Michael Hackett of Gallagher, Flynn & Company, Jim Hall of The Vermont Country Store, Nick Managan of Cabot Creamery, Gary Scott of UVM Health Network, and Ian Sutherland of Acrisure.
The Board also voted on a new slate of Executive Committee members, including Tom Dunn of Vermont Electric Power Company as Chair, Sharon Rossi of FoodScience, LLC. as Vice Chair, Walter Frame of Trapp Family Lodge as Treasurer, Peter McDougall as Past Chair, and Willie Docto of Moose Meadow Lodge and Kim Donahue of DeJames Hospitality as Executive Committee Members at Large.
Learn More About the Chamber Board
Vermont Chamber Welcomes Jeremy Little as Policy and Outreach Associate
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of Jeremy Little as the new new Policy and Outreach Associate. With his strong background in political science, economics, and legislative processes, Jeremy will be a valuable addition to the Chamber’s ongoing advocacy efforts.
Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors
The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. The program offers an invaluable opportunity for events to garner widespread recognition. Signature events are awarded annually and showcase the rich variety of experiences that can be had in the Green Mountains. These top-rated events offer a true taste of all that is local, bringing visitors into the heart of our communities and serving as an important component in the Vermont visitor economy. The application deadline is Friday, December 1.
News You Need to Know
2024 Flood Resources
BEGAP Application Is Open
The Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program (BEGAP) application portal is now open. Before businesses and nonprofits apply, they are encouraged to visit the Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program page to learn how the program works and what they need to have on hand to successfully submit an application. BEGAP is a grant program for businesses, nonprofits, landlords, and farms that suffered physical damage from flooding. It is available for properties damaged in 2023 and/or 2024.
SBA Loans for Businesses
U.S. Small Business Administration loans are being made available to Vermont companies and private non-profits. Check if your organization is eligible.
Severe Storm Center
The ACCD Severe Storm Resource Center is live. Please visit for the latest information on staying safe, getting help, giving help, clearing debris, documenting damage, and how to protect your mental health during this difficult time. ACCD will be continuously updating this site as new details emerge.
Key Steps Launched in Act 250 Modernization Process
The Vermont Chamber played a key role in the 2024 legislative session in the Act 250 modernization bill which has set forth a process that will shift Act 250 to location-based jurisdiction over the coming years. Two critical pieces in that process have recently been announced:
- Interim Exemptions
- Land Use Review Board Applications
MFG Day 2024: Are You Ready?
With under one month until MFG Day 2024, are you ready? MFG Day, celebrated nationally this year on October 4, is manufacturing’s biggest annual opportunity to inspire the next generation about the industry and careers in modern manufacturing.
- If your business is hosting an event, be sure to register it for free now to elevate your presence and gain exposure.
- For guidance on hosting an event, check out the free resources and webinar recordings available.
National Food Safety Month 2024
All foodservice employees need to know the causes of foodborne illness and how to prevent outbreaks from happening. During National Food Safety Month, ServSafe subject matter experts will share insights into the science of foodborne illness, top tips for preventing outbreaks, and key strategies for crafting efficient response plans. Downloadable tools include:
- The Science of Foodborne Illnesses and Outbreaks: The Most Common Foodborne Illnesses
- What Happens When Foodborne Illness Become Outbreaks- Behind the Scenes of Managing an Outbreak
- The 3-Legged Approach to Prevent Foodborne Illnesses
- Building a Strong Food Safety Culture
- Comprehensive Chart - Food Safety Basics
- Why We Wash our Hands
 |
|
|