Regional Planning & Economic Development in the Northeast Kingdom
David Snedeker, Executive Director [email protected]
e-Newsletter - June 2026
NVDA News
Farewell, and Best Wishes to NVDA's Lorna Higgs!
After completing nearly 20 years of outstanding service to NVDA and the region, Lorna Higgs, our Special Projects Manager has decided to retire from NVDA. Lorna has expertly organized a number of important NVDA events, including Business Plan Competitions, Regional Energy Expos, and numerous NVDA Annual Meetings, including last year's 75th! Most people are aware of Lorna's work on our highly regarded monthly newsletter, the NVDA e-News & Announcements, which began back in 2012. The NVDA Board of Directors and staff wish Lorna the best in her well-deserved retirement.
NVDA 2026 Regional Plan Update - Register for the First Public Hearing on July 29
Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA) will hold two public hearings regarding the NVDA 2026 Regional Plan. The first hearing is scheduled for July 29, 2026, at 6:00 pm and will be a hybrid meeting: online and in-person at Do North (930 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851). Pease register online. All are welcome to attend and provide input on the NVDA Regional Plan, which includes local housing targets and the Regional Future Land Use (FLU) map, but does not include any portions of Tier 3 or the Road Rule. Register for the July 29 hearing Here. Questions? Contact Liam Abbate.
Community Events & Announcements
Act 250 Projects Application Fee Checks Must Be Sent by USPS Starting June 1
Effective June 1, 2026, application fee checks for Act 250 projects located in District 7 (Caledonia, Orleans, and Essex Counties) must be sent by US Postal Service to: Land Use Review Board, 10 Baldwin Street,
Montpelier, VT 05633-3201. For application submissions, records requests, or other general inquiries for District 7, please continue to use the following contact information: https://act250.vermont.gov/contact-us.
Webinar Series Starts June 2: Practical Steps to Reduce Municipal Cyber Risk
The Vermont League of Cities and Towns invites you to join a cybersecurity webinar series taking place on the first four Tuesdays in June from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., beginning June 2nd. This series is designed to provide municipalities with practical, understandable information about today’s cyber threat environment, steps that can help reduce risk, and ways local governments can strengthen resilience over time. The webinars will be led by Shawn Nailor, former Chief Information Officer for the State of Vermont: Register!
Don't Miss the 2026 Downtown & Historic Preservation Conference - June 4, St. Albans
The Downtown & Historic Preservation Conference is Vermont’s go-to gathering for people passionate about vibrant downtowns and preserving the places that make our communities unique. Connect with local leaders, community builders, and advocates at this energizing conference—share ideas, spark inspiration, and walk away with practical strategies to strengthen and revitalize the places we care about most, from housing and adaptive reuse to economic vitality and placemaking. The 2026 Creative Sector Convening will run concurrently on June 5th. Learn more and register for one or both of these signature events!
Provide Feedback on DEC's Permitting Services - Survey closes June 5
In early 2026, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VT DEC) launched a new initiative aimed at making its permitting processes work better for everyone. Fill out the survey on DEC's permitting process by June 5. VT DEC is seeking feedback to: (1) understand experiences with environmental permitting, (2) hear ideas of potential improvements, and (3) discuss proposed solutions. Questions, please reach out to [email protected].
RFP for Organizational Consultant Services for NEK Supervisory Union - Closes June 8
The Northeast Kingdom Conservation District Supervisory Union (NEK Supervisory Union) is seeking proposals from qualified organizations to assist the Union in developing and adopting administrative support capabilities that will provide mutual benefit to each district by, at a minimum: increasing communication across the districts; streamlining workflows; minimizing redundancies; and reducing overhead costs. The final product should define the purpose, structure, and operation of the NEK Supervisory Union to best serve its member Districts. More information available in the full RFP. Email proposal in a single PDF to Sam Mayne, Essex County Conservation District Manager by 5:00 pm, Monday, June 8, 2026.
Effective Plan Implementation Strategies that Don't Involve Zoning - June 9 Webinar
Vermont statute authorizes multiple non-regulatory plan implementation tools, and your community, regardless of its size, could benefit. Whether your town has zoning or not, join this webinar to learn more about the actionable tools a municipal plan can incorporate to drive meaningful change. Special guests include the Village Trust Initiative (VTI). Applications for the VTI program will open on June 17. Learn how this program can help you bring about transformative change in your community. This session will be recorded and available on NVDA's website. Register Here.
NEK Broadband Network Technician Training - June 10-12, 17-20, 24-26
Ready to launch a career in broadband and telecommunications? The Broadband Network Technician Pre-Apprentice Training Program offers free, hands-on training to help participants build the skills needed for entry-level careers in a growing industry. Participants who complete the course will also receive a $500 stipend. Space is limited, so don’t wait to register!
VT ANR Lands Management Planning Rule - Feedback Requested by June 18
The Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) is inviting public comment on a proposed rule that would guide how state lands are planned and managed for the future. ANR owns and manages approximately 370,000 acres of public lands across Vermont. ANR will be hosting public hearings across the state to gather feedback, including one in Lyndonville on June 3, 5:30-7:30pm: Lyndonville Public Safety Building. RSVP here. This process helps ensure that Vermonters have a voice in how these lands are cared for over time. Learn more and submit comments by June 18.
Help Shape Vermont’s 802 Homes Catalog - Take the Survey
As part of the Homes for All initiative, the State of Vermont is developing a catalog of ready-to-build home designs that aim to make housing easier, faster, and more affordable to build across the state. The designs range from small single-family homes to duplexes and four-unit homes inspired by Vermont neighborhoods and communities. Review the draft concepts and share feedback through a short statewide survey. Input will help refine the designs before they move into final construction documents to be shared this December.
Agency of Transportation (AOT) Announces Awards for Grants in Aid Program
AOT announced the awards for the SFY27 Municipal Roads Grants-in-Aid Program, which provides funding for municipalities to implement best management practices in accordance with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Municipal Roads General Permit. This year, 230 municipalities are participating, and a total of $3,712,500 in awards will be granted during this cycle. Municipalities will submit reimbursement requests directly to AOT for work completed, and AOT will reimburse up to 80% of each municipality’s documented construction expenses, including in-kind support, for best management practices on hydrologically connected roads.
$1 Million in Federal Funding Will Support Eight Projects in Vermont’s NEK!
U.S. Senator Peter Welch announced the delivery of more than $1 million in federal funding, administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Rural Development (RD), to support Vermont farmers and small businesses. This announcement follows a months-long effort by the senator and partners to release the federal funds. The funding will deliver technical assistance and counseling to awardees, in addition to creating 120 new jobs. NEK awardees include NVDA, The Center For An Agricultural Economy, Newport City Renaissance Corporation, Brighton Community Forum, Vermont Farm-to-School, Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, the Northeast Kingdom Collaborative, and Saint Johnsbury Works!
Funding Opportunities
Village Trust Initiative to Open Third Round of Applications in June
A new round of funding and support will soon be available to help a third cohort of small Vermont towns breathe new life into the historic buildings and shared spaces at the heart of their communities.
The Village Trust Initiative (VTI) — a partnership of Preservation Trust of Vermont, Vermont Council on Rural Development and Vermont Community Foundation — is a multi-year program that is currently supporting 12 towns across Vermont in creating or bolstering a community focused local non-profit organization to advance a transformational redevelopment project in their village. Participating communities receive financial and technical support, as well as hands-on technical assistance to ensure projects are succesful. Register for the June 17 webinar to learn more and apply by September 8, 5pm.
USDA Now Accepting Applications for Rural Businesses & Community Development Projects - June 15 & June 30 Deadlines
USDA announced that it is making grants available through the Rural Business Development Grant Program (RBDG). The purpose of the program is to promote economic development and job creation projects through the awarding of grant funds to eligible entities. Applications will compete in two separate categories, business opportunity grants and business enterprise grants, for use in funding various business and community projects that serve rural areas. Eligible applicants can include rural cooperatives, state government agencies, towns, nonprofits, institutions of higher learning, and federally recognized Tribes. The RBDG Program has two different closing dates by 4:30 p.m. June 15, for Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) applications and June 30, applies to the remainder of the applicants. More USDA funding Here.
2026 VTrans Bicycle & Pedestrian Grant - Apply by June 12
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.
Community Preservation Grants - Apply by June 30
Are you working to preserve the history of your community? Historic New England’s Community Preservation Grants support small to mid-sized organizations across the region that are saving and sharing the stories, places, and traditions that define their communities. Each year, one grant of $1,250 is awarded to a qualifying 501(c)(3) history or preservation organization in each New England state. Last year's grantees included the Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village in Brownington, VT. Learn more and Apply.
USDA Distance Learning & Telemedicine Grants - Apply by June 30
This competitive program helps rural communities use advanced telecommunications technology to connect to each other - and the world - overcoming the effects of remoteness and low population density. Awards range from $50,000 to $750,000. A minimum 15 percent match is required and cannot be from another federal source. Funds can be used to purchase or support audio, video, and interactive video equipment, computer hardware, network components, software and more. Learn more Here.
2026 Downtown and Village Center Tax Credit Program - Apply by July 1
In FY2027, roughly $3.5 million in state income tax credits are available. Credits are awarded to projects that improve building safety, attract new business, and create jobs. Projects must be within a state-designated downtown or village center. Funding supports general rehabilitation and code compliance work. The program also funds flood mitigation upgrades and exterior façade improvements. Learn more: 2026 Tax Credit Guidelines and apply now.
Business Announcements
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!
Join the Monthly E-Sync Call - Keep a Handle on All Things Entrepreneurial in the NEK!
This is the monthly virtual convening of organizations directly supporting entrepreneurship and community-driven economic activity throughout the Northeast Kingdom. The next meeting is Monday, June 1, 1-2 pm. Register Here. Check your inbox for your Zoom confirmation with your individual link and updated calendar invite. Questions? Email [email protected].
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.
Disaster Recovery & Resilience Resources
Paid $500 Community Science Fellowship for Young Adults (June 26-July 30)
The Rural Rivers Project is offering an opportunity for young adults (ages 18-26) to learn how social and environmental science can help with flooding problems. Participants will receive 8-10 hours a week of active learning in the field with tech experts, plus three hours once a week in the studio at VRMont Studios in Springfield. Learn more and sign up before all spots are filled!
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 Small Businesses & Private Nonprofits (PNPs) Affected by Drought
Low interest federal disaster loans are still available to Caledonia County via SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. The deadline to apply is May 26, plus a 60-day grace period in which SBA will accept applications. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises. The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms of up to a maximum of 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. Apply online or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 / email: [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 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
More 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].
- 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 30, 2026. $187,000 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
- 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 Financing can help eliminate the upfront cost by breaking project costs down into smaller monthly payments. This blog post breaks down two different financing options, including the Residential Energy Loan and helps you make the right choice for your home or property.
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
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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