Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors

Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors
The application is now open for the Vermont Signature Events program. The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.
 
Events must take place between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is Friday, December 1, 2023.
 
10 Winners Will Receive:
Events Must Meet the Following Guidelines:
  • Event must take place for specified and limited period of time.
  • Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours.
  • Events must have an end date.
  • If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond what your normal business offers.
  • Event must be appropriate for out of state visitors as well as for local Vermonters.
  • Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Submit an application for your event here.

Business Community Celebrates Senator Leahy for Career of Contributions to the Vermont Economy

Business Community Celebrates Senator Leahy for Career of Contributions to the Vermont Economy

On June 8, 2023, business leaders from across Vermont gathered in Burlington for The Leahy Celebration, an event dedicated to Senator Leahy’s career of service, and his contributions to the Vermont economy. The event, hosted by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, provided an opportunity for business leaders to thank Senator Patrick Leahy and his wife Marcelle Leahy, for their incalculable impact on Vermont.

The embodiment of public service and the epitome of leadership, Senator Leahy has played a pivotal role in advancing the Vermont economy. Throughout his tenure, he spearheaded critical legislation supporting innovation, research, higher education, transportation, and manufacturing all while supporting the environment and communities unique to Vermont. The Leahy Celebration recognized Senator Patrick Leahy and Marcelle for their commitment to public service, their enduring partnership, and the legacy they leave for future generations.

“Senator Leahy and Marcelle have had a tremendous impact on Vermont businesses,” stated Betsy Bishop, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “This event was an opportunity for the business community to gather to raise a glass, filled with gratitude, to toast to the family that has tirelessly fought for the Vermont economy.”

Mark Anarumo, President of Norwich University, Dr. Lorraine Sterritt, President of St. Michaels College, Ken McAvey, VP and GM of GlobalFoundries, and Senator Peter Welch all joined Vermont Chamber President Betsy Bishop on stage to reflect on Senator Leahy’s distinguished career and accomplishments and lead the champagne toast.

The evening of celebration culminated with remarks from Senator Leahy who reflected on the growth of business in Vermont. He highlighted several businesses that are global leaders in their fields, such as Revision Military, IBM, and Liquid Measurement Systems, each of which have been championed by Senator Leahy during his time in office.

“Marcelle and I are glad to be home. There are a lot of things that we do not miss about Washington, but I do miss being an advocate for Vermont,” stated Senator Leahy. “That was one of the most satisfying and rewarding parts of serving as a United States Senator and what a majority of my staff worked on each and every day.”

Additional event photos are available, here

This Leahy Celebration was made possible by the support of the following sponsors:

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Governor Phil Scott Connects with Business Leaders at The Wellspring Forum

Governor Phil Scott Connects with Business Leaders at The Wellspring Forum

The successful series culminated with Governor Phil Scott as the featured speaker. The event series, hosted by the Vermont Chamber, brings together top Vermont businesses and policy leaders for robust economic discussions. Each event takes place at a unique Vermont business. Governor Scott addressed the Vermont Chamber Board of Directors and other Vermont business leaders via a moderated conversation with Vermont Chamber President, Betsy Bishop.

In addition to ongoing workforce and housing concerns, the top issue raised by businesses was the anticipated impact of new and increased taxes and fees that are poised to fund multiple major legislative proposals. Businesses were appreciative of the Governor’s measured approach when considering bills and his opposition to those that would have unintended consequences on the Vermont economy.

Economic stewardship must be central to policy decisions, particularly those made during the upcoming veto session,” stated Bishop. “With $150 million of likely cost increases for Vermonters, Governor Scott is a voice of reason on affordability concerns and businesses share his determination for balance. The Vermont business community is urging legislators to use the veto session as an opportunity to review and consider the long-term implications of excessive spending proposals on the Vermont economy.”

Governor Scott spoke on several policy issues such as the potential for the first-ever state payroll tax, middle-income workforce housing shortages, and the dwindling labor market. Throughout the discussions, both business leaders and the Governor spoke on the importance of civic engagement and the value of testifying at the State House, communicating with elected officials, and running for office.

“Vermont’s business leaders are real problem solvers, and it’s critical they make their voices heard,” stated Governor Scott. “We need more people stepping up and getting involved who know what it’s like to balance a budget, and I appreciate the Chamber and its members for their hard work and commitment to our state and its communities.”

The event was hosted by Bluebird Barbecue in Burlington, Vermont. Following the forum, the Governor met with Bluebird Barbecue staff for a behind-the-scenes look at the business. After donning an apron, he assisted in the kitchen with cooking the barbecue to be served later in the day.

“Our Vermont Independent Restaurants are the social hubs of our communities, places where folks gather to connect and share moments together,” Sue Bette, Founder of Bluebird Barbecue and Co-Founder of the Vermont Independent Restaurant Association said. “Vermont businesses, particularly in the hospitality industry, have had to be agile and innovative in recent years. It was a joy to once again host and serve as a gathering place for our business community to share ideas and plans to move forward and grow Vermont’s economy together.”

The event title is inspired by Governor James H. Douglas’ quote; “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.”

This Wellspring Forum was made possible by the support of the following sponsors: 

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Vermont Chamber Convenes Economic Roundtable with Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

Vermont Chamber Convenes Economic Roundtable with Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
© 2023 Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

Vermont business leaders met with the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Susan Collins at King Arthur Baking Company in White River Junction as part of her ongoing visits around New England to gauge economic conditions. The meeting, convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, provided an opportunity for Vermont business leaders to discuss the state’s economic challenges and opportunities.

President Collins expressed the importance of hearing directly from business owners, to ensure the Boston Federal Reserve has a well-rounded analysis of the state of the economy.

“Reaching out to and interacting with a range of stakeholders has been a priority for me since joining the Boston Fed last year,” stated President Collins. “In addition to hard numbers and surveys, information gathered on the ground about how businesses and workers are faring greatly informs my assessment of economic conditions. The views my team and I hear from around the New England region provide an important window into how well the economy is functioning for everyone.”

“The Vermont Chamber was proud to welcome President Collins to Vermont and connect her with a diverse group of leaders that represent the breadth of business in our state,” said Betsy Bishop, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “Across industry, county, and size, every business shared how they’ve had to adapt in today’s unpredictable economy. The theme throughout the conversation was the severe impacts of ongoing inflationary pressure.”

Business leaders reflected on the impact of inflation on wage growth and the move toward automation amid the inability to hire workers, as well as the lingering impacts of the pandemic on the economy.

“Revenue is up this year, however, expenses are also up. We have consistently increased our base wages between 20% and 30% each year for the past two or three years,” stated Lindsay DesLauriers of Bolton Valley. “Our operating expenses have also gone up significantly with inflation, so that we are actually behind last year right now on the bottom line. Furthermore, despite the increases we’ve made to wages and efforts we’ve made to add additional benefits, we continue to struggle to find enough staff to hire. While there is much to be proud of and optimistic about, obviously we can’t keep on this inflationary trendline indefinitely.”

“The inability to recruit and retain talent means we can’t fully staff a second shift, let alone add a third shift,” stated Alberto Aguilar of Carris Reels. “Instead, to meet demand we’re exploring how to invest in automation which is becoming crucial to the ability for us to sustain our manufacturing operations here in Vermont.”

“As young business owners, this ‘new normal’ is our reality our challenge” stated Travis Samuels of Zion Growers. “My generation’s attitudes toward work culture, consumerism, and the global supply chain have all changed and we as business owners are having to constantly adapt and pivot. Still, the reality is that there remains a great deal of uncertainty in the economy for newer businesses and it can be difficult to overcome the post-pandemic, financial, and local economic challenges.”

Additional business leaders in attendance; Karen Colberg (King Arthur Baking Company), Mark Foley (Foley Services), Jay Benson (Simon Pearce), Leslie McCrorey Wells (Pizzeria Verità, Trattoria Delia, and Sotto Enoteca), Alberto Aguilar (Carris Reels), Neale Lunderville (VGS), Melvin and Demaris Hall (Global Village), Dr. Sunil “Sunny” Eappen (UVM Medical Center), and Renee Bourget-Place (KPMG – Vermont).

© 2023 Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

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The Wellspring Forum Features Sen. Ann Cummings, Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, and Rep. Emily Long, House Majority Leader

The Wellspring Forum Features Sen. Ann Cummings, Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, and Rep. Emily Long, House Majority Leader

The successful Wellspring Forum series continues to bring together top Vermont businesses and policy leaders for robust economic discussions. Each event takes place at a unique Vermont business and features new speakers.

The third event in the series featured the chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Sen. Ann Cummings (D-Washington), and House Majority Leader Rep. Emily Long (D-Windham-5). The legislative leaders addressed the Vermont Chamber Board of Directors and other Vermont business leaders via a moderated conversation with Vermont Chamber President, Betsy Bishop.

In addition to ongoing workforce and housing concerns, the top issue discussed by businesses was the cumulative impact of anticipated tax increases to fund the multiple major proposals in discussion this legislative session. Businesses urged legislative leaders to consider the ability of Vermonters to meet an increased tax demand and the potential for unintended consequences if businesses are unable to do so.

“During a time of great uncertainty, we need to value economic stewardship,” stated Bishop. “As goes the success of small businesses, so often goes the success of our communities. While legislative committees are working on multiple major investments that require new revenue streams, the Vermont Chamber is advocating for pragmatic decision-making, so the Vermont economy is not overwhelmed.”

 

Sen. Cummings and Rep. Long spoke on several policy issues of interest to Vermont businesses, such as maintaining the small group and individual healthcare markets, solutions to address the ongoing workforce shortage, middle-income housing investments, and the future of the Vermont Employment Growth Incentive program.

“The key to moving policy forward is always balance, and businesses, just like people, sometimes need a lift,” stated Sen. Cummings. “The economy needs to thrive, and the ability to grow business is the difference between Vermont being a place to live and becoming a theme park, only an attraction to visit.”

“Hearing from Vermonters and advocacy groups is critical to the success of what we do,” stated Rep. Long. “I look forward to continuing our collaboration to achieve shared goals. We want to pass a balanced budget that supports Vermonters and businesses in all 14 counties.”

The event was hosted by National Life Group and took place at their Montpelier office.

“National Life has been part of the fabric of this state for 175 years,” National Life Group Chairman, CEO, and President Mehran Assadi said. “The biggest challenge for us is the labor force. We currently have more than 120 open positions to fill.”

The event title is inspired by Governor James H. Douglas’ quote; “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.”

This Wellspring Forum was made possible by the support of the following sponsors: 

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2023 Vermont Economic Conference Provides Outlook for the Year Ahead

2023 Vermont Economic Conference Provides Outlook for the Year Ahead

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s annual Vermont Economic Conference made its in-person return with over 200 business and policy leaders gathering at the University of Vermont Dudley H. Davis Center for an in-depth look at national, global, and state perspectives on the economy as well as the latest economic indicators for business growth.

“The Vermont Chamber understands what it takes to help businesses grow and thrive to build strong, vibrant, communities, and our members have trusted us with this work to be stewards of the Vermont economy. Events like the Vermont Economic Conference help ensure a viable future for our state and achieve our mission of advancing Vermont’s economy,” said Vermont Chamber President Betsy Bishop. “This event is one of many we hope to bring back in-person so that stakeholders from all industries, across every corner of the state, can continue to come together to learn from each other, support each other, create solutions, and work together.”

Senator Peter Welch delivered remarks and reaffirmed his commitment to being a champion for Vermont businesses, stating, “My goal in Washington is to help make it possible for Vermont families to do their work, live good lives, and uphold the traditions that make us proud to be Vermonters. I’ll continue to champion the affordability issues I’ve led in the House, while serving as an advocate for our farms on the Agriculture committee and working to protect our democracy as a member of the Judiciary and Rules committees. I’ll do everything I can to help Vermonters thrive and support the state we love.”

Two keynote speakers headlined the conference, Gus Faucher, Senior Vice President, and Chief Economist for PNC Financial Services Group, and Eva McKend, National Political Reporter for CNN. Faucher is a returning favorite at the Vermont Economic Conference, he provided his signature address, entitled, “National Economic Trends: Balancing Inflation, Consumer Spending, and Employment.” McKend, who previously reported for WCAX returned to Vermont to reflect on her time covering the recent midterm elections and the Washington, DC discourse on economic issues such as inflation and immigration in her keynote entitled, “Balance of Power: A Post-Election Economic Outlook.”

The event also provided an international economic outlook from Ken Kim, Senior Economist for KPMG, a presentation on Vermont demographics, population, and workforce data from Mat Barewicz, Economic & Labor Market Information Chief for the Vermont Department of Labor, and a breakdown of the state budget from Commissioners Adam Greshin and Craig Bolio.

The agenda closed with the presentation of the 2022 Outstanding Business of the Year Award to Hickok & Boardman Insurance Group. The award was presented by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and VermontBiz and accepted by Scott Boardman, CEO, and Paul Plunkett, President & COO, on behalf of the business.

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The Wellspring Forum Featured Commissioners of Economic Development, Housing

The Wellspring Forum Featured Commissioners of Economic Development, Housing

Following the success of the inaugural Wellspring Forum, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce is hosting an ongoing event series to bring together top Vermont businesses and policy leaders for robust economic discussions. Each event takes place at a unique Vermont business and features new speakers.

The second event in the series took place at Caledonia Spirits, in Montpelier, and featured the Commissioner of Economic Development, Joan Goldstein, and the Commissioner of Housing and Community Development, Josh Hanford.

Business leaders urged action on initiatives to grow the economy and attract more workers to Vermont. The issue of top concern was the statewide shortage of workforce housing. Businesses advocated for making regulatory reform a top priority to increase the supply of suitable housing for employees.

Commissioners Goldstein and Hanford addressed the Vermont Chamber Board of Directors and other Vermont business leaders via a moderated conversation with Vermont Chamber President, Betsy Bishop.

“The vitality of the Vermont economy depends on our ability to find consensus on tough policy issues,” stated Bishop. “Even as we emerge from the pandemic, it’s increasingly rare for professionals from different industries and parts of the state to gather together in the spirit of shared economic interests. The Vermont Chamber is committed to facilitating diverse groups of stakeholders to inform policy discussions, and we will continue this work in 2023.”

The Commissioners spoke about several economic issues of top concern for the business community, including inflation, workforce recruitment, housing shortages, and the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the work of each Department.

“There are so many things that have to work in concert to address our economic challenges,” stated Commissioner Goldstein. “Vermont needs business growth, housing growth, and population growth. Looking ahead, we can’t just develop existing talent, we also need people to come to the state to work for Vermont employers.”

“We have room to grow in this state in a way that doesn’t impact the resources we love,” stated Commissioner Hanford. “However, to grow as a state we need to maximize existing public investments and change the narrative in Vermont away from a historical aversion to development, and towards a more welcoming approach to growth.”

The event title is inspired by Governor James H. Douglas’ quote; “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.”

This Wellspring Forum was made possible by the support of the following sponsors: 

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2022 Outstanding Business of The Year Award Announced

2022 Outstanding Business of The Year Award Announced

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and VermontBiz have announced the recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Business of the Year Award is Hickok & Boardman Insurance Group.

Hickok & Boardman will accept the award at the upcoming Vermont Economic Conference, which will take place on January 30, 2023, at the University of Vermont Dudley H. Davis Center.

The Outstanding Business of the Year Award is presented annually to the Vermont business that demonstrates a commitment to community, workforce well-being, environmental stewardship, and growth in sales or employment. Award recipients have been based in Vermont for at least 10 years.

Hickok & Boardman is a leading broker in Vermont for business and personal property and casualty insurance. Their mission of developing long-term relationships with their clients, employees, and communities has served them well for over two centuries as their business has grown and their client services have expanded.

CEO of Hickok & Boardman, Scott Boardman, said, “With over 200 years of service to Vermonters, our success and longevity are due to the strong relationships formed with our clients and communities, which are forged by our committed employees who embody our mission and values every day. We are honored to receive this award and we look forward to celebrating with the business community in January.”

Vermont Chamber of Commerce President, Betsy Bishop, said, “Hickok & Boardman has been a keystone of the Vermont economy since 1821. Their record of dedication to Vermont as a service provider, employer, and community leader sets a high bar for doing business in Vermont. I know I speak for many when I say we are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to celebrate with the Hickok & Boardman team at the Vermont Economic Conference.”

VermontBiz Publisher, John Boutin, said, “This prestigious award continues the legacy of annually recognizing top Vermont businesses. As a Vermont staple for over two centuries, this recognition for Hickok & Boardman has been a long time coming. We are eagerly awaiting January when we will present the award and celebrate in person.”

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Application Open for Vermont Signature Events

Application Open for Vermont Signature Events
The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.
 
Events must take place between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is Thursday, December 22. 
 
10 Winners Will Receive:
Events Must Meet the Following Guidelines:
  • Event must take place for specified and limited period of time.
  • Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours. Events must have an end date.
  • If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond what your normal business offers.
  • Event must be appropriate for out of state visitors as well as for local Vermonters.
  • Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Submit an application for your event here.

Vermont Chamber Hosts 9th Annual Manufacturing Summit

Vermont Chamber Hosts 9th Annual Manufacturing Summit

Since 2013, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce has convened manufacturing industry leaders at the annual Manufacturing Supply Chain Summit. In recent years, the pandemic prompted the event to go virtual, increasing accessibility for global buyers, suppliers, and partners to engage with Vermont and New England manufacturers and leaders. Due to the success of the virtual model, the event was once again held virtually this year, bringing together representatives from throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. The 2022 event was themed “Rebuilding Supply Chains and Workforce through Content, Collaboration, and Contacts.”

85 suppliers and 25 OEMs, Primes, and Government Agencies held 300 meetings between buyers, suppliers, and partners, representing hundreds of new connections between participants. Many of the attendees were leaders in the aerospace, aviation, defense, and naval/marine industries.

The event also offered a rich two-day agenda of seminars and roundtable discussions focused on new and emerging trends in advanced manufacturing for the aerospace, aviation, defense, space, industrial, and naval/marine industries. Sessions were moderated by Vermont Chamber Vice President of Business Development, Christopher Carrigan.

“The Vermont Chamber is proud to continue our legacy of championing manufacturing by hosting an event that is a catalyst for collaboration and innovation. A testament to this is the 26 Canadian, 8 Connecticut, and 8 Ontario suppliers in attendance supporting the Vermont Chamber’s work to build the Vermont – Québec Aerospace Trade Corridor that now extends from Connecticut to Ontario,” stated Carrigan. “We’re already looking forward to celebrating a decade of Manufacturing Summits at next year’s event.“

Senator Patrick Leahy and Governor Phil Scott both delivered virtual remarks at the event, celebrating Vermont’s leadership in the manufacturing and aerospace industries, and addressing some of the top challenges facing businesses.

In response to severe workforce shortages, the event also featured the “Find Your Future Workforce” initiative, a workforce development effort facilitating employer interviews on the virtual platform with University of Vermont and Vermont Technical College students, as well as Vermont National Guard members, interested in careers in manufacturing for the semiconductor and aerospace industries.

The 2022 Manufacturing Summit was made possible by our sponsors:

To join us as a sponsor for the 2023 Manufacturing Summit, please contact Chris Carrigan: (802) 223-0904, ccarrigan@vtchamber.com.

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