Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce March 2026
Building community. Supporting business. Leading forward.
March in the Northeast Kingdom
There are weeks when I am reminded just how lucky we are to live and work in Vermont.
The week before last, I had a thoughtful conversation with Peter Welch about the economic realities facing our rural region. Last week, I had a wonderful one-on-one meeting with John Rodgers, who specifically wanted to hear what is standing in the way of our small businesses, and today is Town Meeting Day.
Where else can you walk into a room with your neighbors and shape the future of your community?
We are incredibly fortunate. But gratitude does not mean silence.
Please continue sharing with me what stands in your way as business owners, whether it’s workforce, housing, healthcare costs, taxation, regulation, Canadian tourism impacts, or something else entirely. The more clearly I can represent you, the more effective we can be.
Legislative Breakfast Recap
We had a strong and engaged Legislative Breakfast this month. These dialogues matter. Policy decisions affect payrolls, expansion plans, hiring, and long-term investment in our region. Thank you to everyone who showed up and contributed.
Coffee Hour – Trusted Source Solutions
Wednesday, March 4 | 7:30 AM
Hosted at Lyndon Institute--39 Luther Circle
Tomorrow morning we welcome Todd Smith from The Caledonian-Record for an introduction to Trusted Source Solutions, the new business technology division of the paper designed to modernize how they support local businesses.
The digital landscape is changing dramatically, and rural businesses can feel at a disadvantage. This locally built solution is designed specifically for our needs.
Bring your questions and curiosity and we’ll provide fresh coffee from Mother Moon Coffee Company.
Free to attend. Members, non-members, and coffee lovers are all welcome.
Thank you to Lyndon Institute for hosting.
Annual Meeting at Burke Mountain Resort – April 9
Mark your calendars! This year’s Annual Meeting will be held at Burke Mountain Resort, and it will be a true celebration. 11:30-1:30, $40/member, $50/non-member (12:00 buffet lunch).
Leadership from Bear Den Partners will join us for a conversation about:
- What they experienced this season
- Their vision for the future
- How the success of the mountain contributes to the success of the region
- What they need from the business community
- How we ensure the NEK continues to be the soul of Vermont
This will be a forward-looking conversation about momentum, partnership, and shared success.
Civics Bee – April 10
Civic literacy matters more than ever as we celebrate 250 years.
The Civics Bee is coming up on April 10th, and we are looking for:
- Sponsors
- Judges
- Community supporters
If you’d like to be involved, please reach out. Investing in civic understanding is investing in Vermont’s future.
Business Resources
Be sure to explore the business resource page from Discover St. Johnsbury:
https://www.discoverstjohnsbury.com/business-resources.html
There are valuable tools and supports available to you.
As we move through March, through policy conversations, coffee hours, civic engagement, and planning for the future, I am reminded that we are not just running businesses, we are building community.
Thank you for all that you do. And please, keep the emails and calls coming!
—
Loralee Tester
Executive Director
Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce
802-626-5594
