Vermont Economic Conference
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
The Vermont Economic Conference is Vermont’s premier annual economic event, convening hundreds of business leaders from across the state for an in-depth examination of national, global, and state economic conditions and what lies ahead. Thank you to the presenters, sponsors, and attendees whose insights, engagement, and partnership made the 2026 conference a meaningful forum for data-informed discussion and connection.
Save the date for the 2027 Vermont Economic Conference: Tuesday, January 26, 2027.
PRESENTATIONS
The keynote conversation at the Vermont Economic Conference brought together two voices offering distinct and complementary perspectives on how the economy works: public stewardship and state fiscal strategy, alongside sharp, story-driven business commentary.
State Treasurer Mike Pieciak led a fast-paced interview with Jack Crivici-Kramer, co-host of the nationally recognized podcast The Best One Yet. Known for translating complex market dynamics into clear, engaging stories, Crivici-Kramer brought a narrative lens that resonated with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policy thinkers.
The discussion paired Crivici-Kramer’s clarity and energy with Pieciak’s deep understanding of Vermont’s fiscal landscape, offering an accessible look at the economic forces shaping Vermont’s future and providing attendees with context, clarity, and actionable insight.
Mat Barewicz provided a comprehensive, data-driven outlook on Vermont’s economy, offering insight into key trends, labor market conditions, and the forces shaping the state’s economic trajectory. As Economic and Labor Market Information Chief at the Vermont Department of Labor, he examined current challenges, highlighted emerging opportunities, and framed what Vermont’s economic future may hold.
In this featured session, Thomas Feltmate delivered a big-picture economic outlook grounded in data, insight, and real-world implications for business leaders. Drawing on his work at TD Economics, he translated national trends in growth, inflation, interest rates, and labor markets into clear, actionable takeaways for Vermont’s business community.
The presentation outlined the United States growth trajectory, highlighting key headwinds and tailwinds shaping business investment and consumer demand. Feltmate also examined inflation and monetary policy trends, including the outlook for interest rates and what they mean for cost structures, borrowing, hiring, and long-term planning. A strategic review of labor market conditions provided context on employment trends, wage pressures, and workforce challenges, while situating national dynamics within Vermont’s unique industry mix and competitive advantages.
Guided by Kevin Chu of the Vermont Futures Project, this panel featured leaders from economic and political research, housing, and healthcare, including Gary Winslett, Maura Collins, and Stephen Leffler.
The conversation provided a data-informed view of Vermont’s economy, examining the implications of the state’s current trajectory, the opportunity costs of inaction, and the policy and investment levers within Vermont’s control. Drawing on lessons from other states, panelists outlined the choices needed to position Vermont for long-term growth and opportunity.
The 2025 Business Climate Survey provided a clear view of how Vermont employers are experiencing the current economy, highlighting concerns around workforce shortages, housing constraints, and broader affordability pressures affecting competitiveness. In this session, Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, connected employer feedback directly to the Chamber’s government affairs work and the Vermont Economic Action Plan.
The presentation offered a sharper understanding of the policies, trends, and priorities shaping Vermont’s economic trajectory and demonstrated how data-informed advocacy is translating business sentiment into actionable pathways for growth, resilience, and long-term prosperity. The session reinforced the Chamber’s commitment to advancing the Vermont economy through advocacy, community, and resources while elevating the voice of businesses statewide.
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and VermontBiz presented the Outstanding Business of the Year Award to Birnn Chocolates of Vermont, honoring more than a century of craftsmanship, leadership, and commitment to growing a nationally recognized business while staying deeply rooted in Vermont.
The recognition celebrated Birnn Chocolates’ four-generation legacy, long-tenured workforce, and intentional decision to manufacture every truffle in South Burlington while distributing products to all 50 states. The award reflected the company’s enduring impact on Vermont’s economy and its example of how businesses can grow with purpose, invest in people, and strengthen communities.
FAQ
View programming and content from the most recent Vermont Economic Conferences:
- Gain valuable insights from renowned experts on the national, global, and state economic outlooks.
- Explore critical topics such as inflation, consumer spending, employment trends, demographics, and the state budget.
- Network with fellow business leaders and industry experts.
- Empower your business success with the insights and connections you need to navigate the ever-changing economic landscape.
EVENT SPONSORS
