VOBA: Vermont Outdoor Economy Summer News | Vermont Business Magazine

Submitted by tim on Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:37

Photo: Waterbury, David Goodman

TAKE THE 2024 OUTDOOR SECTOR FLOOD IMPACT SURVEY

On the anniversary of Vermont's 2023 flood, northern and central Vermont communities watched waters overtake businesses, homes, and recreation areas. Although disheartening to re-engage in response and recovery efforts, Vermonters came together swiftly to help those in need. Notable this time was the outdoor sector's heightened conversation about climate change.

As VOBA's executive director stated in BIVO's Quench'd series, "The outdoor sector is perfectly positioned as a change maker for climate resiliency efforts now and into the future. Outdoor businesses are leading the way from their rural and urban locations, busily innovating outdoor products and recreation facilities, and lending their voice to policy proposals that invest in climate action measures."

Similar to last summer, VOBA is assisting outdoor businesses in navigating available resources and advocating needs to government and service providers. Take the 2024 Outdoor Sector Flood Impact survey to help address physical and economic injury losses due to recent flooding.

TAKE THE OUTDOOR SECTOR FLOOD IMPACT SURVEY

It is important that businesses submit damage data through Vermont 211 which helps the state apply for federal disaster relief. A federal disaster declaration would allow Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) dollars and Small Business Administration (SBA) loan opportunities. FEMA is currently assessing Addison, Orleans, Washington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, and Essex counties.

More resources:

Sign up for the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD)'s Severe Storm Recovery Newsletter and find resources in ACCD's Storm Recovery Resource Center
Watch for information on ACCD's Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program (BEGAP) for an additional $5 million in grants allocated by the legislature following the 2023 distribution of $20 million
Share travel information with customers provided by the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing
Seek assistance for displaced employees at the Vermont Department of Labor Job Centers
Find updates: Vermont State Parks, Vermont Rail Trail System, Trail Finder, Green Mountain Club, Vermont Mountain Bike Association, Agency of Natural Resources
Visit the Vermont Emergency Management’s Flood Recovery Centers in Barre, Hinesburg, Lyndonville, and Plainfield
Find resources in the Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility's Flood Recovery Guide for Businesses
Donate to the Vermont Community Foundation's Vermont Flood Response & Recovery Fund
Support non-profit organizations restoring and stewarding recreation assets: Vermont Trails and Greenways Council, Vermont Parks and Recreation Association
Access mental health resources from Starting Over Strong Vermont by calling 211
Lend a hand in affected communities though local relief organizations

TAKE THE OUTDOOR SECTOR FLOOD IMPACT SURVEY

Register today!

Path Ahead for the Vermont Outdoor Industry

Wednesday, July 31 from 9:00 - 2:00
Grafton Inn & the Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center

Join industry colleagues for networking, planning, and outdoor time at VOBA's summer industry retreat.

Speakers will share insights for strengthening the future sector. Discussions will refine statewide priorities and identify investments for business and workforce development and approaches to equity, climate resilience, innovation and sustainability, and career pathways.

AGENDA

9:00-9:15 Networking and coffee

9:15-9:35 Welcome and introductions

9:35-10:15 What we’ve heard so far: Vermont Outdoor Business Survey, Move Forward Together Vermont Vision, Outdoor Industry Priorities

10:15-11:10 MFTV priority industry input: Stewardship, Wellness, Economic Development

11:10-12:15 VOBA work plan: Equity, Climate Resiliency, Innovation & Sustainability, Career Pathways

12:15-1:00 Lunch

1:00-1:45 Outdoor industry partnership map

1:45-2:00 Wrap-up

2:30-4:00 Outdoor time: Grafton Inn led hike and mtn bike rides

REGISTER HERE.

VOBA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN

VOBA's annual membership cycle began on July 1, 2024. Over the last year, many sector accomplishments were made possible with VOBA support and the engagement of VOBA's 130 member network.

Let’s do the numbers.

130 businesses, organizations, service providers, and educators joined VOBA, benefitting from networking, education, and business development services;
50 businesses reported over $6 million in flood impact last July and were supported by VOBA in navigating and advocating for financial assistance;
150 businesses, organizations and policymakers attended the fifth annual Vermont Outdoor Economy Summit and Membership Meeting where VOBA awarded the third annual Trailblazer Award;
Participated in state and national meetings and worked with the media to highlight the growing outdoor economy;
85 participated in the first-ever Outdoor Recreation Day at the State House, followed by Tourism Economy Day;
$5 million was appropriated to the state's Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program, the PFAS bill passed the legislature, 30 x 30 industry focus groups were held, and an outdoor economic impact study proposal advanced after businesses and VOBA staff testified and weighed in to policymakers;
100 attendees of Destiny Unbound supported VOBA's fundraising event for equity and climate resiliency raised $4500 for diversity organizations and was sponsored by 20 companies;
15 gear, apparel and accessory manufacturers received direct business and marketing technical assistance and 30 vendors showcased Vermont-made products at the 3rd annual Vermont Gear Makers Festival;
50 outdoor businesses and educators participated in Move Forward Together Vermont industry forums;
12 bike mechanics completed new professional development courses co-designed and co-instructed by 10 bike shops;
12 trail builders completed new professional development courses co-designed and co-instructed by 4 trail builder employers;
10 business leaders and VOBA staff presented at spring conferences and on panels moderated by VOBA; and,
25 partnerships were strengthened between industry and recreation, conservation, equity organizations, education institutions, funders and service providers, and state entities and agencies around strengthening the outdoor economy.

As a nonprofit organization established in 2018, VOBA relies on member contributions to provide activities that strengthen Vermont’s outdoor sector and drives outdoor economies. Help us achieve our strategic vision and build a sustainable organization that supports its members.

Join via PayPal or by requesting an invoice or mailing address for check payment. Learn more about becoming a member.

Join VOBA!

A YEAR OF VOBA

VOBA has supported members in networking, education, business development, workforce training, marketing, advocacy, and contributing to recreation, equity, conservation, and community efforts. We valued the partnerships and member engagement leading to social and economic impact across the state.