Regional Planning & Economic Development
in the Northeast Kingdom
David Snedeker, Executive Director
e-Newsletter - May 2026
Community Announcements
Vermont Green Up Day - Saturday, May 2nd
Volunteers make a big difference every year in helping to clean up litter in neighborhoods and along streets, roads, trails, and waterways. Green Up trash bags are available from Volunteer Town Coordinators. Find the location in your town Here. Pitch in to keep Vermont beautiful!
NVDA's (draft) Regional Plan Continues as a Work in Progress
NVDA's planning staff is working diligently to move the 2026 Regional Plan forward through the mandatory adoption process. For the past eight months our planners gathered feedback from widespread community outreach, conducted extensive data research, followed standards for mapping land uses, carefully prepared a thorough inventory of the region's mapping data, and worked to comply with statutory obligations. Every Planning Commission in the state must consider state regulatory changes to reflect statewide planning goals that coordinate state, regional and municipal land use in the counties and communities they serve.
When NVDA's Board of Directors signs off on the updated 2026 plan, it will be submitted to the Land Use Review Board (LURB) for review and final approval per statutory requirements by December 31, 2026.
The 2026 Regional Plan will continue to benefit communities throughout our region with:
- Tax Credits for business & property owners in designated Village Centers & Downtown areas.
- Benefits to help local governments with economic development.
- New housing goals to meet the community's building needs.
- Support for Working Lands & Natural Resources.
Want to learn more? Mark your calendar: Wednesday, May 13th, 6--7:00 pm
The public is invited to join Alex Weinhagen of the Land Use Review Board (LURB) and NVDA for a general discussion of Act 181, and LURB's review of the Regional Plan and the approval process. A brief Q&A session will follow. To register
Mobile Home Infill Program (MHIP) May 6th, St. Johnsbury Tour & Info Session
To help address housing affordability and development challenges intensified by recent flooding, the VT Housing Authority helped launch MHIP to fast-track lot improvement and home installation of new, high quality, affordably priced manufactured homes. Attend the free in-person home tours and information session May 6th. Tour several Mobile Home Infill locations in St. Johnsbury, Lyndon, Coventry, and Derby. Learn about program eligibility requirements and explore the homebuying process highlighting financial support. New homes range from $85,000-$110,000. Visit affordablehomes.vermont.gov. Community members, prospective homebuyers, employers, municipalities, service providers, developers, and funders are invited to attend. Register for May 6th Tours & Info Sessions Here
Save the Date: May 8th, Vermont 2026 Walk/Bike Summit
The Vermont Walk/Bike Summit, held every other year in a different region of the state, is an opportunity to connect with Vermont's active transportation community. In partnership with the VT Agency of Transportation, the Bennington County Regional Commission will host the statewide summit on Friday, May 8th. The event will take place at the Bennington Theater with classroom and mobile workshops throughout the day in downtown Bennington. Anyone interested in promoting bikeable and walkable communities (including bicycle and pedestrian advocates, planners, professionals, consultants, and enthusiasts) are welcome! https://vtwalkbikesummit.com/.
NVDA Webinar - Planning 101: What you need to know to get started!
Are you newly appointed to your town's Planning Commission? Are you tasked with updating your community plan...or working on a brand new plan? This webinar is for you if you feel like the moon, the stars, and all the planets have fallen on you! This live virtual training session will be held on Monday, May 11th @ 5:30 pm. We'll cover the basics:
- What is a Town Plan
- Why your community needs one
- How to use public engagement strategies in public hearings to keep boredom at bay!
Click HERE to register. There will be time for Q&A, and the session will be recorded and available on www.nvda.net.
Notice of Public Hearing - Municipal Town Plan for Maidstone
Tuesday, May 12th, 12:00 pm, Maidstone Town Hall, 508 VT Route 102. A copy of the Maidstone Town Plan may be viewed at www.nvda.net or at the Town Clerk's Office, open Mon & Thurs 9:00 am-3:00 pm. Anyone wishing to comment on the plan's compliance should attend the hearing. Written testimony and comment may be submitted in advance. In addition, the Town of Maidstone requests a determination from NVDA of energy compliance. The energy compliance hearing shall be held immediately following the regional approval hearing at approximately 12:30 pm. For more information, contact Alison Low, [email protected].
St J Bike to Work Day - Friday, May 15th
Enjoy a morning ride and grab FREE breakfast at the St. J Welcome Center! If you live along the Rt 2 corridor, try Bike to Bus! Bike to one of the US 2 Commuter bus stops or Park & Rides and load your bike on the bus to the Welcome Center for breakfast! The event is sponsored by RCT, Northern Counties Health Care, and Ticket to Ride, a new regional bicycle advocacy group.
NEK Legislative Breakfasts
The NEK Chamber of Commerce in St. Johnsbury and the North Country Chamber of Commerce in Newport, present a Legislative Breakfast each month. Business leaders, local officials and residents come together with NEK legislative representatives to discuss issues shaping Vermont and the region. It's a forum for respectful dialogue, civic engagement, and building stronger relationships between government and community. Coffee and refreshments are available. All are welcome. Upcoming Breakfast dates:
- St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 8:00-9:00 am, May 18th
- Eastside Restaurant, Newport, 7:30-8:45 am, May 11th (The Newport events are in-person and on Zoom) Contact Daniel Pellerin for information [email protected]
CHIP in VT Office Hours
The Vermont Community Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) is a statewide tax increment financing tool designed to help communities unlock housing opportunities by investing in critical public infrastructure. Office hours are offered to help municipalities learn more about requirements and opportunities for actionable steps to move forward. CHIP Guidelines The program launched in January. Drop in online, ask questions and learn more. May 11th, 1:00-2:00 pm Register. The next dates are June 9th and July 14th.
Barn Preservation Grant Awarded to Scotch Burn Farm in Ryegate
The VT Division for Historic Preservation awarded 2026 Barn Preservation grants to twenty barn projects across Vermont to support building restoration rehabilitation. The Scotch Burn Farm, an agricultural landmark in Ryegate, specializes in sustainable farming practices. The farm's origins trace back to 1774, the same year the town of Ryegate was settled. Congratulations from NVDA for keeping Vermont's farming history alive!
Save the Date: June 4 & 5 in St. Albans
Vermont's 2026 Downtown & Historic Preservation Conference will be held on June 4th in St. Albans. The 2026 Creative Sector Convening will run concurrently on June 5th. Learn more and register for one or both of these signature events! Here
Business Announcements
Spring Job Fest: May 8th, Fenton Chester Arena, Lyndon, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm
The free job fair is sponsored by NE Kingdom Workforce Partners, VT Dept of Labor, and Lyndon Institute. For more information call St. Johnsbury DOL office (802) 748-3177.
Become an EV Charging Site Host
The VT Agency of Transportation plans to issue a second Request for Proposals to expand the statewide network of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Federal funding will be awarded to pre-qualified providers to install EV charging equipment at locations that meet specific criteria. Find out the benefits for property owners who may be interested in becoming a "site host" at their location. Visit EV Site Host Overview and take the survey!
NEK Regional Employer Survey
Local employers are invited to provide input in a survey to help the Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs at Lyndon Institute and St. Johnsbury Academy. The purpose of the Local Needs Assessment Survey is to help collect information from local employers to assess how well the CTE programming and student outcomes align with workforce needs in the region.
Dam Owner Academy - Free Self-paced Training
Two free training options from the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) are oriented toward private and municipal dam owners. The self-paced courses for non-engineers can be completed at your convenience over time. Learn more
Vermont Tariff Resources & Task Force Website
The Agency of Commerce & Community Development has compiled key resources to help Vermont businesses respond to evolving tariff-related challenges on the federal level, evaluate potential impact, and focus on solutions. Vermont Tariff Resource Page.
Flood Recovery Resources
Looking for help in administering floodplains?
NVDA has a web resource for floodplain administrators looking for training and resources: https://nvda.net/flood-resilience.php Questions? Reach out to [email protected]
SBA Disaster Relief for VT Small Businesses & Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought Low Interest Disaster Loans are available: SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is open to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PSPs that sustained financial losses directly related to the drought, beginning Oct 7, 2025. EIDLs are available for working capital even if the business or PNP did not suffer physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other unpaid bills due to the disaster. The declaration covers Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans Counties. EIDLs are not available at this time for ag producers and farmers. Apply by Aug 31st.
The Community Facilities Technical Assistance Disaster Relief Program
This program can assist small and under-resourced rural communities in navigating the administrative and technical burdens of federal funding - free of charge! Get help with recovery and development needs. RCAP Solutions can assist eligible counties with loan and grant applications. Services will be offered through Sept 2026. RECAP Vermont The program is supported by USDA Rural Development. Contact Madison Wellman [email protected] (774) 239-9783
Funding Opportunities for Communities & Business
- BizBuild Cost Share Program NVDA's BizBuild Program provides funding to help startups and existing small businesses access the training and professional services they need to launch, grow, and succeed. Grants of up to 70% of the project cost can support hiring outside expertise for marketing & branding, legal and permitting, feasibility studies, training and more. Get started! Contact Annie McLean, Economic Development Specialist, to receive an application form: [email protected]
- 2026 Rural Fire Protection Grant Program The installation of (new) dry hydrants and other types of rural water supplies is still the program's priority, but eligible projects also include repair/upgrade, replacement or relocation of exiting rural water supplies, and drafting site development. Visit vacd.org/rfp to download the application packet. Questions? Troy Dare (802) 828-4582 or email [email protected].
- Clean Water Block Grant The MARC Enhancement Development, Design & Implementation Block Grant (EDDIBG) is open for a second round of funding. Eligible projects must be non-regulatory and achieve at least one of five statutorily-defined goals. The Mount Ascutney Regional Commission (MARC) is administering funding. Apply by May 15th Learn more
- 2026 VTrans Bicycle & Pedestrian Grant The intent of the grant program is to improve access and safety for bicyclists and/or pedestrians through the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects. The two funding categories are Federal Aid and "Small Scale" projects. Find out more and access the application materials Here Online applications are due June 12th.
- Tax Credit Applications Due: July 1st State and Federal Tax Credits administered by VT Agency of Commerce & Community Development can support businesses and property owners with building improvement projects including historic preservation, code compliance, and facade improvements. Sign up for the May 5th, 10:00 am informational webinar Here. Visit the website for 2026 Tax Credit Guidelines
- USDA Funding Opportunities USDA has a monthly publication packed with useful information called "Innovation Matters." Subscribe and discover funding opportunities that support community facilities, infrastructure and economic development Here and view the current issue.
- Community Heart & Soul Seed Grant Program 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
- SLoCAMP Grant for Loggers SLoCAMP (Supporting Loggers to Comply with Acceptable Management Practices) The grant offers significant cost share benefits for logging contractors working on harvest sites in Vermont. Eligible practices include road hardening, skid trail improvements, and stream crossings. 36 projects have been approved! Learn more and start your application. Projects must be complete by Nov 30th. $187k in funding is still available!
- Agriculture Grants The VT Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets maintains a website of grants, loans, and financial assistance Here that targets specific agricultural needs. Sign up for the Vermont AG Bulletin and read about grants, news and more Here
Funding for the Arts
- The Vermont Arts Council Applications are being accepted for Arts Project Grants (May 8th deadline); Arts Operating Grants (May 12th deadline); Cultural Facilities Grants (May 15th deadline). Register for May-June Assets for Artists Professional Development Workshops Here. Sign up for the ArtMail newsletter for information about the VT Arts Council and current funding opportunities.
- Vermont Creative Network www.vermontcreativenetwork.org Each month the Vermont Creative Network highlights a selection of current funding opportunities, training, and professional development resources to help grow Vermont's creative sector. Browse the listings, search for jobs, and locate a variety of creative events. The Network is an initiative of the Vermont Arts Council.
Loan Programs
NEK Prosperity Fund The NEK Prosperity Fund is a project of NEK Prosper, NEK Community Action (NEKCA), and Community Capital of VT. Loan recipients 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. Visit the website Here
VT Economic Development Authority (VEDA) Looking for financing options? VEDA offers low interest machinery and equipment loans VEDA Financing VEDA Direct Loan Program
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
NVDA Brownfields EPA Revolving Loan Fund is available to businesses and municipalities for brownfield cleanup projects. Contact [email protected].
Efficiency Vermont Energy Loan Two Efficiency VT loan programs offer affordable financing options for residents and business customers. Residential Energy Loan and Business Energy Loan.
Career Training & Continuing Education
St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Education
View all training courses Here. See options for customized on-site professional workplace training Here.
Questions? Contact Sandra Mings Lamar, Director of Adult Education [email protected]
Vermont State University Division of Workforce, Community & Economic Development - Five Center & Program areas: View all online career training options Here.
https://vermontstate.edu/about-us/workforce-community-and-economic-development-at-vermont-state/
North Country Career Center, Newport https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/home
Contact Chris Damato (802) 334-5469 x3305 [email protected]
Lyndon Institute Career & Technical Education Center https://www.lyndoninstitute.org/academics/career-technical-education
Contact Alex Herzog, Director of Career & Technical Education Program [email protected]
Garrett Kaminski, Work Based Learning & Adult Education Coordinator [email protected]
Canaan School CTE Program Chuck Patterson, Coordinator of Curriculum, [email protected] or call (802) 266-8910
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. The training can be on-site or offered through an outside provider. Are your employees eligible? VTP Contact Randall Szott for more information. [email protected]
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. STEP grants are awarded on a rolling basis. Visit www.accd.vermont.gov/STEP
Business Resources
Vermont Business Portal This virtual help center offers a central location for state requirements to start, manage, and grow a business in Vermont. The interactive "New Business Checklist" identifies steps needed to navigate the start-up process, track progress, and stay organized. VT Business Portal
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. 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 - Visit the website Labor.vermont.gov/jobs for information about job openings and training opportunities by region and industry. VDOL provides free services to employers to help recruit, train and retain a quality workforce. The Registered Apprenticeship Program is designed to provide hands-on-experience and on-the-job training in a specific industry of choosing.
VT Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) Experienced business advisors are available by email, phone or video conferencing. For free customized service, contact Rick Daniell, NEK Business Advisor [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 from Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties. Contact Dustin Smith, [email protected] (802) 323-9010 for free coaching. www.nekcavt.org
Looking for Commercial Space?
[email protected] (802) 748-8303
Commercial Building Lots for Sale: St. Johnsbury-Lyndon Industrial Park
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.
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