Amy Spear

2025 Vermont Business Climate Survey Results Released

2025 Vermont Business Climate Survey Results Released

The Vermont Futures Project has released the 2025 Vermont Business Climate Survey Findings Report, offering a detailed look at how employers across Vermont are experiencing the state’s economic environment. With responses from one hundred and thirty nine employers representing every major industry and all fourteen counties, this report provides an important snapshot of the conditions shaping Vermont’s economic future.

 

The findings show what many Vermont businesses continue to experience every day. Workforce shortages remain the most pressing challenge, affecting the ability of employers to meet demand and plan for growth. Housing availability and affordability continue to limit recruitment, retention, and mobility. Operating costs, including healthcare expenses and taxes, are placing growing pressure on budgets. Employers also express concern about regulatory predictability and whether their perspectives are reflected in statewide policy conversations.

 

These insights closely align with the priorities of the Vermont Economic Action Plan, which outlines the long term strategies needed to grow the workforce, expand housing supply, strengthen affordability, and create a more competitive and resilient future for the state. The survey results help clarify where progress is needed and where Vermont has the greatest opportunity to support long term economic stability.

 

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce appreciates the leadership of the Vermont Futures Project in producing this comprehensive analysis. Data informed insights like these are essential for shaping policy conversations in Montpelier and guiding collaborative work with the business community. The report provides a grounded understanding of the challenges employers face and reinforces the need for long term, thoughtful solutions.

 

Vermont businesses, policymakers, and community partners are encouraged to explore the full report and use this information to support planning, decision making, and collective action.

 

Read the full 2025 Business Climate Survey Findings Report

A donut chart showing Vermont employers’ ratings of the overall business climate in Vermont. The largest share, forty eight point nine two percent, rated conditions as fair. Twenty point eight six percent rated conditions as good, nineteen point four two percent as poor, nine point three five percent as very poor, and one point four four percent as excellent. The average rating is two point eight six out of five.
A donut chart showing survey responses on whether the business community’s voice is heard in Montpelier. Fifty three point three percent said no, twenty six point seven percent said yes, and twenty percent were unsure.
A horizontal bar chart showing the top challenges identified by Vermont employers. Workforce ranks highest with seventy seven mentions, followed by taxes and fees at sixty six, housing at sixty one, healthcare at fifty seven, and regulation and permitting at forty six. Additional challenges include insurance, consumer confidence, childcare, crime and public safety, access to capital, inflation, supply chain issues, energy, and other responses.

Vermont Chamber Announces Winners of the Coolest Thing Made in Vermont Awards

Vermont Chamber Announces Winners of the Coolest Thing Made in Vermont Awards

BETA Technologies’ ALIA Aircraft and Hannaford Career Center’s Tiny House on Wheels Named 2025 Winners

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Vermont Awards, recognizing the state’s most innovative manufacturers and the next generation of technical talent. The awards were presented during the annual Vermont Manufacturing Summit, the state’s premier gathering for manufacturers from across Vermont, New England, and Canada.

 

2025 WINNERS
Coolest Thing Made in Vermont
BETA Technologies – ALIA Aircraft: BETA Technologies was selected for its groundbreaking all-electric ALIA aircraft, capable of both conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) and vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). Designed and built in Vermont, ALIA represents a fully integrated approach to the future of aviation—from advanced propulsion systems to charging infrastructure. The aircraft embodies BETA’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation, reflecting the global impact of Vermont-grown manufacturing excellence.

 

“On behalf of our nine hundred plus member team at BETA, we are completely humbled to receive this recognition. Thank you. Katie and I grew up here and knew this is where we wanted to build our business. It took twelve years of pitching the idea of BETA before the first person said yes. At that moment, we decided our strategic advantage would be to be highly vertically integrated and to do it as sustainably as possible. These things echo our Vermont advantage. That is the advantage of thinking differently about how we do things and setting the bar high. We are thrilled to be here, doing all of that for electric aviation with our team here in Vermont,” said Kyle Clark, Chief Executive Officer of BETA Technologies.

 

Coolest Thing Made by a Career Technical Education or STEAM Program
Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center – Tiny House on Wheels: Students from the Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center received top honors for designing and building a fully functional Tiny House on Wheels, crafted to provide affordable housing for a local resident. The project showcases applied learning, craftsmanship, sustainability, and the community-minded spirit that defines Vermont’s Career Technical Education programs.

 

“This event highlights the power of CTE in the lives of students, and the importance of CTE for Vermont. The innovation of these kids demonstrates what young people can do when given access to Career Technical Education. CTE is not just a leg up for their future goals, it is a launchpad,” said Nicole MacTavish, Ed.D., Superintendent and Director of the Patricia A. Hannaford Regional Technical School District.

 

More than sixty submissions were entered by manufacturers and student teams across the state, an impressive reflection of the innovation, creativity, and technical skill that fuel Vermont’s manufacturing sector. From aerospace and advanced engineering to adaptive technology and community driven housing solutions, this year’s entries highlight the sector’s powerful contributions to Vermont’s economic vitality.

 

“The Vermont Chamber is proud to champion Vermont’s manufacturers, industries that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “The Coolest Thing awards celebrate not only remarkable products, but the skilled workforce, ingenuity, and partnerships that strengthen Vermont’s economy. We are honored to recognize the leaders and students who are shaping the future of manufacturing in our state.”

 

FINALISTS (HONORABLE RECOGNITION)
Made in Vermont Finalists

  • Rothspeed – Splitray Supercar: A carbon-fiber reimagining of a vintage Corvette, blending classic design with advanced engineering. Built in Milton, the Splitray showcases world-class performance and the artistry of Vermont’s precision manufacturing.
  • WheelPad L3C – SuitePAD: A 200-square-foot modular bedroom and bathroom suite that can be attached to an existing home in weeks, providing accessible, dignified housing for those facing mobility challenges. SuitePAD reflects the power of design, compassion, and rural economic resilience.

Career Technical Education or STEAM Program Finalists

  • Green Mountain Robotics – “Champ”: A competitive 140-pound robot built by FRC Team #9101, demonstrating the strength of Vermont’s growing STEM talent pipeline.
  • Lyndon Institute – Bridge Barrier: A custom steel safety barrier fabricated by welding students to protect the historic 1878 Miller’s Run Covered Bridge—an example of applied learning and community stewardship.
  • North Country Career Center – Air Blow Off System: A student-engineered automated air system designed to reduce downtime and operational costs for a local manufacturer.
  • Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center – Mobility Device for Disabled Children: A student-created adaptive mobility device that transforms a toy car into life-changing technology for a local child.

Celebrating Vermont Manufacturers at the Summit
The Vermont Manufacturing Summit brings together leaders from across the region for two days of global supply-chain matchmaking, policy discussions, workforce innovation, and advanced manufacturing collaboration. The Coolest Thing awards are a cornerstone of the Summit, honoring both the products that strengthen Vermont’s economy today and the students and educators building tomorrow’s workforce.

 

“Manufacturing is one of Vermont’s most essential economic sectors,” Spear noted. “From aerospace to outdoor recreation to custom fabrication, these employers fuel statewide innovation, create high-wage jobs, and anchor communities. The Summit and the Coolest Thing awards underscore our commitment to supporting this critical sector through advocacy, community, and resources.”

BETA Technologies team holding their Coolest Thing Made in Vermont award alongside Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers and Vermont Chamber President Amy Spear at the Vermont Manufacturing Summit.

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Vermont Chamber of Commerce Hosts 11th Annual Manufacturing Summit​

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Hosts 11th Annual Manufacturing Summit

For over a decade, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce has brought together industry peers to facilitate sourcing and procurement opportunities at the Manufacturing Summit. This year, 130 industry leaders and manufacturing professionals from across Vermont, New England, and Canada convened to collaborate, share insights, and explore solutions to the sector’s most pressing challenges. Held on November 13-14 at the recently renovated Hotel Champlain in Burlington, the event included an in-person networking reception followed by a robust day of programming designed to strengthen connections and spark collaboration.

As global markets and regulations shift, manufacturers must adapt to maintain competitive advantages and ensure long-term success. With the theme of “Resilience by Design,” this year’s Manufacturing Summit brought together experts to discuss strategies for building resilient supply chains, leveraging technology for greater adaptability, and navigating an evolving regulatory landscape. A key feature of the conference was the Business-to-Business (B2B) Matchmaking Program, designed to connect manufacturers with potential partners, suppliers, and clients.

The summit focused on key issues facing the manufacturing sector, including workforce development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and supply chain strategies. Attendees included representatives from a wide range of industries, including precision manufacturing, food production, construction, and clean energy. 

“Since 2013, the Vermont Chamber has built a legacy of strengthening the manufacturing industry through policy and programming efforts to give Vermont manufacturers a competitive edge. This year’s Manufacturing Summit provided invaluable insights for manufacturers across the region,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “As manufacturing, a leading contributor to Vermont’s GDP, continues to evolve, it is more important than ever to foster collaboration and equip businesses with the connections and resources they need to be successful.”

This year’s summit was generously supported by the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development’s Department of Economic Development, G.S. Precision, Manufacturing Solutions Inc., Collins Aerospace, GE Aerospace, VT Apex Accelerator, the University of Vermont CEMS, KAMAN Composites Vermont, and the Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center. Plans for next year’s event are already underway, and the Chamber looks forward to building on this year’s success to continue advancing Vermont’s manufacturing sector.

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Vermont Chamber Releases Legislative Biennium Report

Vermont Chamber Releases Legislative Biennium Report, Emphasizes the Importance of Collaborative Solutions

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the release of its 2023-2024 Legislative Biennium Report, highlighting the critical role of state-level policymaking in shaping the business landscape and economy of Vermont.

“As we present this report, we are reminded of the resilience and dedication that define Vermont’s business community,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber. “Over the past two years, we’ve navigated significant legislative activity and unprecedented challenges that have both tested and strengthened our collective resolve.”

The report underscores the essential need for active engagement and advocacy in Montpelier. “It is imperative that a diverse range of perspectives is included in the policymaking process,” added Spear. “True innovation and balanced policy outcomes arise from collaboration—a practice central to the work of the Vermont Chamber.”

Highlights from the 2023–2024 Legislative Biennium Report:

  • Advocacy Efforts: The Vermont Chamber’s advocacy team, led by Vice President of Government Affairs Megan Sullivan, testified 55 times before legislative committees and monitored 964 committee hearings, ensuring that the voice of the business community was heard.
  • Legislative Engagement: The Chamber hosted with 14 legislative interns, fostering the next generation of leaders and advocates.
  • Economic Focus: Amid record-high government spending supported by one-time federal pandemic relief funding, the Chamber emphasized the need to return state spending to sustainable levels to address the affordability crisis impacting businesses, individuals, and families.
  • Policy Impact: Several key bills beneficial to Vermont’s business community were successfully passed, while numerous proposed tax increases that could have strained the state’s economic climate did not advance.
  • Voting Transparency: Incumbent legislators’ voting records on key economic issue. This resource provides businesses with clarity on how their Senators and Representatives voted, enabling informed political engagement and advocacy to strengthen Vermont’s business environment.

As election season progresses, it is imperative for candidates to prioritize economic growth and recognize the significant role Montpelier plays in shaping Vermont’s business landscape. Looking to 2025, the Vermont Chamber’s commitment to balanced, data-driven, and pragmatic approaches remains strong. The Vermont Chamber advocacy team will be visiting communities across Vermont in the coming months to preview the full slate of business issues expected in the State House during the upcoming legislative session.

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Tom Dee Honored as Citizen of the Year

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Honors Tom Dee as the 2024 Citizen of the Year

On August 1, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce celebrated Thomas A. Dee, President and CEO of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), as the 2024 Citizen of the Year at an event in his honor. Colleagues, friends, and family members gathered at the historic Everett Mansion to recognize Dee’s outstanding contributions to advance the southern Vermont economy and elevate community healthcare standards.

The Citizen of the Year award is presented annually by the Vermont Chamber to an individual who has made significant contributions to the betterment of Vermont, distinguished through exceptional service to their community and region, and epitomizes the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice that defines Vermont citizenship. Tom Dee has exemplified these qualities through his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the southwestern Vermont community.

“I’m humbled by this honor and grateful for the attention it brings to SVMC and the community of Bennington, which I call home,” said Tom Dee. “I have always strived to be a good steward of this health care system and, while I consider myself a small part of its more than 100-year history, I understand the crucial role we have in the communities we serve and in the State of Vermont. This has always motivated me to move SVMC forward and support our community, where I can.”

Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, also shared her thoughts on the occasion, saying, “Tom Dee embodies the finest ideals of Vermont citizenship. For 14 years, his unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have significantly improved the local economy and elevated community healthcare standards. We are proud to honor Tom Dee as the 2024 Citizen of the Year and celebrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to community.”

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has been honoring outstanding Vermonters with the Citizen of the Year award since 1964. Previous recipients include Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. This year’s celebration was a testament to Tom Dee’s remarkable contributions and his enduring legacy in Vermont. This event was supported by these generous sponsors: rk Miles, Casella, Farrell Distributing, The Richards Group, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, Mack Molding, and The Putnam Redevelopment Group

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The 2024 Vermont Inspiration Guide is Now Available, Celebrating Local Businesses and Green Getaways

The 2024 Vermont Inspiration Guide is Now Available, Celebrating Local Businesses and Green Getaways
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) have announced the release of the annual Vermont Inspiration Guide. The Vermont Chamber produces the Inspiration Guide in partnership with VDTM each year. Print copies of the 2024/25 edition are set to be distributed to key points of interest in Vermont’s drive market to amplify Vermont businesses and inspire travel. In 2023, visitor spending contributed $3.0 billion to Vermont’s economy.
The Inspiration Guide is displayed throughout Vermont in Welcome and Information Centers as well as lodging properties and tourism hubs. It is also displayed at key retail outlets, airports and travel hubs in New England and New York as well as consumer shows and events throughout the United States and Canada. It is available by request through mail worldwide. The Inspiration Guide is part of the Vermont Tourism Marketing Program, which leverages dynamic print and digital products to promote businesses to the 80 million people within a day’s drive of Vermont. The suite of products and services are the official fulfillment pieces for the State of Vermont.
Vermont’s local communities, businesses, and attractions create the fabric that makes up the Vermont brand. The editorial mission of the Inspiration Guide is to tell the story of Vermont through compelling, authentic content that inspires visitors. The Inspiration Guide amplifies business stories and the Vermont brand experience to the destination marketplace.
In addition to articles celebrating each of Vermont’s unique regions, the 2024/25 edition of the Inspiration Guide highlights Vermont’s commitment to destination stewardship and sustainable travel with articles on “green getaways,” a guide to hiking responsibly, and more.
The transformative power of experiences and how they contribute to the well-being of visitors is further underscored in the reoccurring “Love Where You Live” section, which features Izzy Johnson of Color the Valley, LLC (CTV), a Queer, BIPOC, and Women-Owned outdoor guiding company based in Burlington, Vermont. CTV specializes in bikepacking, backpacking, and hiking trips with an emphasis on Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), and Queer communities.
Individuals, businesses, and organizations can obtain print copies of the 2024/25 Vermont Inspiration Guide, by visiting https://vermontvacation.com/request-information/.
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Landmark Act 250 Modernization Bill Becomes Law

Landmark Act 250 Modernization Bill Becomes Law

Lawmakers voted to override the Governor’s veto of H.687, marking the final passage of the historic compromise that has been a monumental undertaking for policymakers and stakeholders this session. The successful passage of the bill will immediately exempt the building of housing units across Vermont, which is a top priority for the Vermont business community. The Vermont Chamber has been engaged on this bill throughout the session to secure this crucial provision, among others.

There will be an opportunity to address the areas of concern that led to the Governor’s veto decision in the next biennium. In the meantime, the passage of this bill marks an important step forward to achieving common goals. Act 250 exemptions for housing will start immediately and a location-based jurisdiction approach will see full exemptions in smart growth areas soon. No single piece of legislation will absolve the housing crisis that has been generations in the making and more work needs to be done to find solutions that get at the root of the problem. The Vermont Chamber remains committed to working with legislators and the Governor’s administration in the years ahead on further policy solutions for Vermonters. 

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Senators Listen to Vermont Businesses, Uphold Veto on Data Privacy

Senators Listen to Vermont Businesses, Uphold Veto on Data Privacy

Business voices played a crucial role in ensuring an extreme data privacy bill, in its current form, did not become law. While businesses support comprehensive consumer data privacy legislation, H.121 was rife with provisions that lacked clarity and would have unintended consequences for businesses, consumers, and the Vermont economy. The Governor and Senators listened to their constituent businesses on this issue and voted accordingly so an improved bill can be passed in the next biennium.

Earlier this session, when Vermont businesses tried to provide input during the policymaking process, they were dismissed by some politicians as misinformed or as being influenced by big tech. However, a bipartisan group of fifteen Senators decisively rejected that misleading narrative and voted to uphold the veto, deciding to pump the breaks and return to the drawing board. See how your Senators voted, here and how your Representatives voted, here. On the floor, Senator Christopher Bray (D-Addison) stated, “The uniformity of the concerns that I heard from the business community made me re-read and ask questions…there is so much uncertainty in [H.121] that it has Vermont businesses deeply concerned about the consequences of enactment… there is wisdom in pausing when you find that the work you have done, no matter how well intention, may have negative consequences.” Senator Ann Cummings (D-Washington), who also voted to uphold the veto, stated, “We need to make sure the business community supports this… We need to make sure we get this right because it is a very serious issue.”

The outpouring of feedback from Vermont businesses in recent weeks no doubt played a key role in securing this result. The successful veto of H.121 means that a more balanced bill can now be crafted in a future session. The Vermont Chamber is committed to working with legislators in the next biennium to pass an improved bill that aligns with neighboring states via a process that respects all voices at the table.

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Well-Intentioned Data Privacy Bill Misses the Mark

Senate Economic Development Passes Strong Data Privacy Bill

H.121, a data privacy bill passed by the legislature and vetoed by Governor Scott, is a well-intentioned attempt to protect consumers’ personal data that misses the mark. In its current form, this bill will create major problems for Vermont’s businesses, consumers, and economy. Our organizations strongly support comprehensive data privacy legislation, but H.121 goes far beyond the measures adopted in neighboring states like Connecticut and New Hampshire, which we support as workable models. H.121 goes far beyond these measures and would make it harder for businesses to serve their Vermont customers than to serve those in other states. 

Unfortunately, when Vermont businesses tried to provide input throughout this policy-making process, they were routinely dismissed by some in the legislature as misinformed or as being influenced by big tech. This is an inaccurate characterization. Further, it has had a chilling effect on the ability of Vermont businesses to engage in the legislative process for fear of being villainized and of ramifications for their businesses. 

This bill will put Vermont businesses at a serious disadvantage, making them less competitive than businesses in other states, raising their marketing and compliance costs, and exposing them to potential legal battles. H.121, as passed by the Legislature, is unworkable. It threatens the survival of many local businesses and would put a serious dent in the Vermont economy.

H.121 could also spell the end of loyalty and other programs that many Vermonters benefit from. These programs, like airline miles, hotel and credit card points, multi-mountain ski passes, savings on gasoline, and more, are all at risk. Under the new law, it would be too difficult, expensive, and risky for businesses to continue offering these programs and benefits to Vermonters.

Unfortunately, H.121 is not balanced legislation. Vermont should join our neighboring statesby adopting a comprehensive privacy law that creates regional alignment. This would protect consumers and hold bad actors responsible while helping businesses to comply. H.121 as drafted, does not accomplish this. The 105-page document is rife with provisions that lack clarity and will lead to unintended consequences.

We urge legislators to support Governor Scott’s veto of H.121 and return next year to work on creating a better bill. Vermont can have strong privacy laws that protect consumers without hurting local businesses. Let’s find a solution that works for everyone.

Signed,

Associated Industries of Vermont

Central Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Heating and Cooling Contractors of Vermont

Vermont Association of Broadcasters

Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Vermont Fuel Dealers Association

Vermont Independent Restaurants

Vermont Retail and Grocers Association

Vermont Ski Areas Association

Vermont Technology Alliance

Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association

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Intern Spotlight: Malachi Shiffer-Delegard 

Intern Spotlight: Malachi Shiffer-Delegard 

Name: Malachi Shiffer-Delegard 

College: Middlebury College 

Field of Study: International Politics and Economics 

Anticipated Graduation: May 2026 

Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota 

What is your Vermont story?  

My Vermont story started when I visited Middlebury College in the fall of my senior year of high school. I first noticed the beauty of the surrounding mountains and felt a profound sense of uniqueness while driving to visit my dream school. At that point in my life, Vermont felt like a utopia, a place where the business of the rest of the world could not reach, inhabited by people who love their state and the natural world around them. Furthermore, the people of Vermont who I met, mostly students, seemed to genuinely love going to college and living in Middlebury. This only deepened my preexisting belief that Vermont was the perfect place to spend the next four years of my life. The night before the admission decisions were released, I could barely sleep, wracked with apprehension about the possibility of being rejected from the perfect school for me. When I was accepted into college in December of 2021, I wished that high school could be over already and that I could immediately move to Vermont. While this wasn’t possible, it made my arrival and subsequent move in period even more exciting and meaningful. Over my first two years as a student, I explored the many mountain hikes, skied extensively, and enjoyed the fall foliage all while being intellectually engaged in a rigorous liberal arts education. When the time came to decide what I wanted to do this summer, the idea of living in Vermont became more and more appealing, and led me to apply to several Vermont based internship programs.  I look forward to spending the summer months here, a season widely considered the most beautiful and pleasant time to experience what Vermont has to offer.  

What drew you to the work of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce/Vermont Futures Project? Why do you think it is important? 

As someone who is studying economics and economic policy, the work of the Chamber and Futures Project closely aligns with what I have been fascinated with over the last two years. While my time at Middlebury has given me a theoretical understanding of policy and economic theory, I always wanted to see how these abstract ideas impacted the people interacting with the economy. Business runs in the family, and getting an opportunity to understand the conditions in which the economy runs smoothly and how best support businesses seemed very aligned with my personal values and ethics. The economy, whether you like it or not dictates a significant portion of your life, as we all depend on each other to provide the goods and services necessary to live a thriving life. The health and correct implementation of economic policies to reach our shared goals is therefore of the utmost importance, and something that I am honored to be a part of. The opportunity to develop my hard skills and interact with a place that I still feel like a visitor in seemed like the best option for me. 

What are you hoping to learn more about during the internship and why? How do you envision this summer experience fitting into your long-term aspirations? 

I have spent most of my time in Vermont on campus or in Addison County, not usually venturing out into the capital region or Chittenden County. Working there with people not from my small corner of Vermont will expand my understanding of the state. I hope my data analysis and communication skills will improve over the summer and hope to learn how to use data-driven arguments to lobby officials and create meaningful resources. I think that this experience will help me learn how to work in an office setting, something that I have little prior experience with. Through learning about Vermont businesses and how they perform best I hope to equip myself with knowledge of how to run my own business one day, whether it be in Vermont or somewhere else.  

Contact Info:  

Mshiffer-delegard@vtchamber.com 

linkedin.com/in/malachi-shiffer-delegard-/ 

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