Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation This month, the legislature began its 2026 session with an ambitious schedule that includes important pieces of legislation relevant to economic development that we’re watching closely. Among them:
- Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) - The Vermont Economic Progress Council (VEPC) has adopted guidelines for CHIP, laying the framework for the first applications to come in later this month. Passed in the last session, CHIP allows up to $200 million per year of tax increment financing for ten years to be spent by Vermont communities on infrastructure to support housing development. This is one of the most significant investments Vermont has made into housing in decades. What we’ll be watching: modifications that make the program more accessible to applicants.
- Permanently extend the Vermont Employment Growth Incentive (VEGI) Program - The VEGI program, Vermont's only business incentive, is currently set to expire in January 2027. Instead of renewing the program for another one or two years, GBIC is advocating for the incentives to be made permanent so Vermont can encourage employment and economic growth for years to come. What we’ll be watching: legislation that eliminates the sunset provision.
- Continuing Technical Education (CTE) - Governor Scott's administration and legislative leadership are proposing legislation to transform Vermont’s CTE centers and increase access to CTE programming for Vermont middle and high school students. Strong CTE provides a path to career options for young people, and helps fill critical gaps in our workforce. What we’ll be watching: opportunities to support stronger CTE access and programming.
As the legislative session gets underway, we will be at the statehouse representing your views and priorities. Please reach out to me or Alex Demoly with your questions, comments, and concerns.
News From 60 Main
CHIP is Here - In general, eligible projects must include “infrastructure improvements that serve a public good and directly support the development of an eligible housing development.” That may include new or rehabilitated housing developments that provide meaningful primary housing units. Specifics on eligibility and the application process are now available on the Agency of Commerce and Community Development website. We can walk you through the process and help you prepare an application. Reach out to Alex Demoly at [email protected] or (518) 526-1427 for more information.
Vermont Employer's Roundup
VEDA Housing Funding - The Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) is seeking a modification to their statute to allow them to invest in housing creation. We believe adding more financing capacity will help get more multi-family housing projects off the drawing board and into our communities. If there is a project that would benefit from this proposal, please let VEDA know.
EPSCoR Funding Opportunity for Small Businesses - Vermont EPSCoR Phase (0) grant program supports business or industry projects that have a strong potential for success in federal SBIR/STTR competitions. The program is intended to support preliminary proof-of-concept feasibility studies in preparation for federal SBIR/STTR applications. Awards can be as high as $15,000, and applications are due February 20th. Learn more.
SBA Funding for Drought Losses - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Vermont who sustained economic losses caused by the drought beginning Oct. 7, 2025. Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. Learn more.
Events & Workforce Development
1/22 Regulatory Compliance Webinar - Join Vermont Law & Graduate School on January 22nd for an overview of some of Vermont’s most-asked permitting and compliance questions for small businesses. The webinar will cover DEC permitting such as stormwater, wastewater, and air emissions; local zoning and Act 250; hazardous waste; plus, the spectrum of licenses and certifications required by the State. Register.
1/27 Vermont Economic Conference - The Vermont Chamber of Commerce's Economic Conference is one of Vermont’s premier economic events. Hundreds of business leaders from across the state attend this event for an in-depth look at national, global, and state perspectives on the economy and what’s on the horizon. This year's conference will be held on January 27th at Hotel Champlain in Burlington and feature Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak and The Best One Yet Podcast Co-Host Jack Crivici-Kramer as keynote speakers. Register.
2/7 Lunch with Lenders - Do you own a small business or are you starting one? Want to learn about ways to get money for your business? On February 7th from 11:00am-2:00pm, meet local banks that can help your business and learn about business resources. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and meet other business owners. Register.
2/21 Homes for All Workshop - The Department of Housing and Community Development is hosting workshops beginning on February 21st in Montpelier aimed at helping small housing developers. Sessions will include technical assistance programming. Learn more and provide feedback on dates and locations for additional sessions.
gbicvt.org Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
