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NVDA celebrates 75 years

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Regional Planning & Economic Development in the Northeast Kingdom

David Snedeker, Executive Director

[email protected]   

 

e-Newsletter - November 2025

Community Announcements

Northeastern Vermont Development Association The NVDA staff and Board of Directors welcomed community officials, business leaders, legislators, and economic development partners to their 75th Annual Meeting. Governor Phil Scott and Sarah Waring, Executive Director of Northern Border Regional Commission, were guest speakers. The following newly elected officers will lead the 2026 Board of Directors: Cynthia Stuart, President; Paul Brouha, Vice President Caledonia County; Michael Strait, Vice President Essex County; Hope Colburn, Vice President Orleans County; Fred Saar, Secretary/Treasurer At Large. The NVDA staff and directors continue to perform a vital role in regional development and planning Vermont's future.

Tune in Nov 13th! Webinar Outreach Summary: NVDA's 2026 Regional Plan

Updating the NVDA Regional Plan takes place every eight years to better serve the fifty-five towns and villages in the NEK. The 2026 updated plan is a work-in-progress and it will guide decisions on housing, transportation, natural resources, economic development, and more! The content is informed by changing local needs, state requirements, and most importantly, input from the people who live and work here. Click on the link for information about the Regional Plan Update Here. Do you have questions? Contact us anytime! [email protected] ** NVDA online Webinar Regional Plan Report Out, Nov 13th , 6:00-7:30 pm

Reimagining Rural Capacity Summit, Nov 13th, 9:00 am-3:30 pm VTSU Randolph Campus

Join this FREE hands-on day with Vermont community and economic development leaders, planners, resource providers, local officials, legislators, and funders. Presented by VT Evaluation of Rural Technical Assistance (VERTA). Free registration and lunch! Learn more and register Here

NEK Together - A Gathering on November 18th, 9:00 am-1:00 pm

All are welcome Nov 18th to join for a reimagined NEK Together at its new location, the Highland Center for the Arts. Come to connect and celebrate the future of the NEK Collaborative. Register here for a fresh, fun and interactive event https://www.nekcollaborative.org/programs

Catamount Arts is Celebrating its 50th Anniversary, Nov 15th at Burke Mountain Hotel

"An Evening for the Arts" promises to be a vibrant celebration with food, drinks, music & dancing to the sounds of The Wicked Smart Horn Band!. Come for a memorable evening and celebrate the profound impact Catamount Arts has had in our communities over the past five decades. Purchase tickets before Nov 5th - This will be a sell-out event! Gala Tickets . Gala & Hotel Room Package

Regional Emergency Management Committee Meetings

  • Orleans-Essex REMC: Mon, Nov 17th, 1:00 pm / Newport Fire Station
  • Caledonia-Essex REMC: Wed, Dec 3rd, 1:00 pm / Barnet Fire Station

The meetings are in-person and virtual via ZOOM. Contact Molly Dockter [email protected] for ZOOM and Agenda information.

 

Caledonia Food Co-op Receives $600,000 Community Development Block Grant

The Town of St. Johnsbury applied for the grant on behalf of the Cooperative to help create the downtown foods-focused grocery store. The funding will help cover the costs of equipment, construction and rehabilitation of the former Walgreens on Railroad Street. Governor Scott announced the award and said the CDBG program is making a difference in cities and towns across the state for infrastructure and economic development that play an important role in helping to revitalize our communities. CDBG grants flow-through the municipalities without additional public dollars or matching fund requirements. NVDA supports the Co-op revitalization project that addresses multiple needs: creation of quality jobs; support for local agriculture producers and local food supply chains; and the need for a successful anchor that will bring consumers downtown and support surrounding businesses. Caledonia Food Co-op

Farley Brown of Craftsbury is Honored by the VT League of Cities & Towns.

The Vermont League of Cities & Towns presented the 2025 Municipal Service Award to Farley Brown. The award is given to a municipal official who has shown an active commitment to strong local government within their community and beyond its borders. For over two decades, Farley Brown has served the Town of Craftsbury as a member of both the Planning Commission and Conservation Commission. She is a member of the NVDA Board of Directors and worked on the Craftsbury Town Plans, Village Center Designations, energy planning, and master planning for the village. Farley is a professor at Sterling College which has allowed her to integrate her students and the school's programming to benefit the community. She embodies the spirit of outstanding municipal service that this award seeks to recognize. Congratulations from NVDA!

New! Municipal Climate Toolkit

The Vermont Municipal Climate Toolkit is a one-stop, local and regional climate planning hub. These Vermont-specific resources can help towns and cities: update a municipal plan; design a project; find resources & tech assistance; support climate adaptation; build resilience; and reduce climate pollution. The toolkit is also a valuable resource for non-profits, businesses, schools, community groups, and individuals. Toolkit

Dealing With Drought?

Almost all of Vermont has been experiencing Severe to Extreme drought conditions. Impacts are hitting households, public water systems, agriculture, and forests. Visit the Agency of Natural Resources' website and find up-to-date information on drought conditions, how to report impacts and conserve water, and resources for homeowners and farms. Drought Resources

Vermont Creative Network Upcoming Events

The Vermont Creative Network brings together people working in the creative sector to share ideas and build working relationships. Three advocacy training events will be offered this fall:

  • Legal Landscape for Vermont's Creative & Nonprofit Community (webinar) Nov 6th, 11:00 am-1:00 pm, Hosted by the VT Small Business Law Center Register
  • 2026 Legislative Preview: Vermont's Creative Sector Advocacy Priorities (in-person) Nov 17th, 8:00-11:00 am, Main Street Landing Film House, 60 Lake St., Burlington Register
  • Creatives at the Table - Getting Involved in Local & State Government (in-person) Dec 4th, 2:00-4:00 pm, Chandler Center for the Arts, 71 No. Main St., Randolph Register

 

Regional Project Prioritization (RPP) List Update

NVDA is updating the Regional Project Prioritization list which is used by federal, state, regional and local organizations to understand the region's funding needs that help match federal and state funding announcements to projects. The regional list expresses the highest priority projects of the region. If your project is on NVDA's May 2025 RPP list, NVDA will automatically review your project for ranking on the December 2025 list. If you have significant updates, changes to the project or questions, please contact Annie McLean [email protected]. (530) 721-0241. Deadline is Nov 15th

Pilot Program: Multifunctional Productive Buffers

The Orleans County Natural Resources Conservation District is piloting a new initiative under the Trees for Streams program to promote and implement productive woody buffers. A multifunctional productive buffer is a vegetated area alongside surface water that can be managed to produce marketable products such as sap, nuts, fruits and berries - offering a potential source of income for farmers and landowners. Orleans County NRCD is seeking property owners who are good candidates for this program. Learn more Questions? Contact Ted Sedell, Riparian Lands Program Manager [email protected]

Business Announcements

Common Good Vermont Nonprofit Summit, Nov 4th, DoubleTree in South Burlington

The 2025 Summit will bring together hundreds of nonprofit professionals, community leaders, advocates, and allies from across the state for a full day of interactive workshops, panel discussions, exhibits, and networking opportunities. Registration is open Here

Free Workshop "How Do I Get the Word Out About My Business - Social Media Edition?" Nov 5th, 5:30-7:00 pm, The Welcome Center, 51 Depot Square., St. Johnsbury This free in-person workshop is presented by Maggie Gray of Haven and The Buttery Kitchen & Pantry, and sponsored by Discover St. Johnsbury. Learn more and register Here

Local Job Fair in St. Johnsbury: Nov 19th, 3:30 - 6:00 pm

Work Your Way Job Fair, featuring part-time and seasonal jobs, is sponsored by the VT Department of Labor. All are welcome to attend and meet employers who are hiring for jobs that fit every age and stage of life! The event is being held at 1197 Main Street. Event Link

VMEC 30th Anniversary Dinner Celebration, Nov 13th, 5:00-10:00 pm at The Essex Resort & Spa, Essex Junction

VT Manufacturing Extension Center is extending a hearty invitation to celebrate three decades of strengthening and empowering Vermont manufacturers. Enjoy an evening of food, music, award presentations, and celebrate what manufacturing success looks like in the Green Mountain State! For more information and to register, visit VMEC Anniversary Dinner

VT Manufacturing Summit, Nov 19-20, Hotel Champlain, Burlington

Join the VT Chamber of Commerce and industry leaders in Burlington for the 2025 Vermont Manufacturing Summit. This premier two-day event unites manufacturers, suppliers, and experts from across Vermont and New England to address today's top challenges: strengthening supply chains, embracing innovation, and growing the workforce of tomorrow. Register by Nov 14th.

 

Federal Government Shutdown Assistance Available

If you are a government employee or federal contractor with direct deposit at North Country, you can apply for a temporary shutdown assistance loan. 0% loan for up to $5,000 or two net payroll deposits. No credit check or underwriting required. Loan to be paid back within 45 days. To apply, contact toll-free 1-800 660-3258, email [email protected], or stop by any North Country Community Credit Union branch.

 

Vermont Tariff Resources & Task Force

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 the potential impact, and focus on solutions. Vermont Tariff Resource Page.

Green Mountain Farm to School - Job Posting

GMFTS is currently recruiting for a Food Hub Account Manager. The full time position is located in Newport. To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to [email protected]. The position will remain open until filled. To Learn more about this nonprofit organization and the search for a food systems professional, visit the website greenmountainfarmtoschool.org.

Career Training & Continuing Education

St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Education

Contact Sandra Mings Lamar for all course offerings: [email protected]

 

Vermont State University Division of Workforce, Community & Economic Development - Five Center & Program areas: View all online career training courses 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 [email protected] or Michelle Parson, Work-based Learning Coordinator, [email protected].

 

Canaan School CTE Program

Chuck Patterson, Coordinator of Curriculum, [email protected] or call (802) 266-8910

 

Sterling College School of the New American Farmstead https://www.ce.sterlingcollege.edu Contact [email protected]

Funding Opportunities for Communities & Business

  • FY26 Municipal Planning Grant Vermont's economy, climate, and development needs are changing quickly. Municipal Planning Grants offer flexible funding support for cities, towns and villages to adapt to change and lead their future. Learn more about the program and application schedule Municipal Planning Grant RPC deadline: Nov 3rd.
  • 2026 VTrans 2026 TAP and MHSMP Grants Applications are being accepted concurrently for the SFY Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and the Municipal Highway & Stormwater Mitigation Program (MHSMP). Visit the website for details about project eligibility. Applications are due by e-mail Nov 7th. Learn more.
  • 2026 Recreation Trails Program Grant (RTP) This is a reimbursement program funded by the Federal Highway Administration. The RTP offers Vermont municipalities and non-profits funds to develop, restore, and maintain public recreational trails. Learn more The Pre-Applications deadline is Nov 21st.
  • 2026 Communities Caring for Canopy Grant The Vermont Urban Community Forestry Program is offering $40,000 in 1:1 cost-share grants with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Applications are due Jan 30th. Communities Caring for Canopy Grants.
  • Application Period Open: Vehicle Electrification Projects The VT Department of Environmental Conservation has incentive funding from Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust for vehicle electrification projects that reduce emissions from diesel-powered vehicles. Funding is available for NEW project only. An optional Microsoft Teams meeting on Nov 12th @ 1:00 pm will go over the application process and answer questions. Find details about joining the meeting in the Request for Applications section. Apply by Dec 17th. Learn more
  • USDA Funding Opportunities Subscribe to USDA's newsletter "Innovation Matters" for funding opportunities that support community facilities, infrastructure, and economic development Here The monthly publication is packed with useful information.
  • 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 Funding SLoCAMP (Supporting Loggers to Comply with Acceptable Management Practices) Grant Program 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. Learn more and start your application.
  • Agriculture Grants Working Lands Service Provider & Producer Association Grant provides direct services to working lands businesses through technical assistance and/or other forms of support. Apply before Nov 5th. Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant This program aims to enhance dairy farm systems and support long-term viability. Applications accepted through Dec 4th. Note: 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
  • WLEI Business Enhancement Grant The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative (WLEI) is open to Vermont working lands businesses/organizations which include farms producing food and fiber, and forest products businesses. There is no match requirement. More details about eligibility criteria and weekly Q&A information can be found Here Apply by Dec 11th.

 

Funding for the Arts

  • The Vermont Arts Council Sign up for the ArtMail newsletter for information about the VT Arts Council and current funding opportunities.
  • Vermont Creative Network www.vermontcreativenetwork.org

 

Loan Programs

  • Vermont State Infrastructure Bank (SIB) The SIB program, operated by the VT Economic Development Authority with the VT Agency of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, is available to assist in the construction or reconstruction of highways, roads & bridges, and certain facilities related to rail transit. In some cases, electric vehicle charging stations and natural gas refueling stations for public use are eligible for SIB financing. Learn more
  • 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. For more information visit the website Here
  • 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 to help residents and business customers move forward with energy efficiency projects designed to deliver savings and spur the economy. Residential Energy Loan and Business Energy Loan.

 

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. Are your employees eligible? VTP [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. 2024 STEP grants are awarded on a rolling basis. Visit www.accd.vermont.gov/STEP

 

Flood Recovery Resources

Looking for help in administering floodplains?

NVDA now has a web resource for floodplain administrators looking for training and resources: https://nvda.net/flood-resilience.php

Flooding is the most prevalent form of natural disaster in Vermont. While the state does regulate some larger developments, planning and regulations at the local level is your first line of defense to keep people and investments safe! Questions? Reach out to [email protected]

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 your community's recovery and development needs. RCAP Solutions can assist eligible counties with loan and grant applications where a calendar year 2022 federally declared disaster occurred. This program is supported by USDA Rural Development. Questions? Contact Madison Wellman [email protected] (774) 239-9783

 

Flood Recovery Resources:

 

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" helps identify steps needed to navigate through 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. Questions? 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 for Information about job openings and training opportunities by region and industry. VDOL also provides free services to employers to help recruit, train and retain a quality workforce. Labor.vermont.gov/jobs
  • VT Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) Experienced business advisors are available by email, phone or video conferencing. Do you need help constructing financial statements or application forms for recovery relief funding? For free customized service, contact: Heidi Krantz [email protected] , Heather Gonyaw [email protected], or Rick Daniell [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 form Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties. Contact Dustin Smith, [email protected] (802) 323-9010 for free coaching. www.nekcavt.org
  • NEK Collaborative (NEKC) The Collaborative's mission is to improve the quality of life for all residents in the NEK through coordinated economic and community-supported development. www.nekcollaborative.org.

Looking for Commercial Space?

[email protected] (802) 748-8303 [email protected] (802) 748-1220

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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