Events Archives - Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

June 3, 2026

Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

Stowe, VT (June 4, 2026) – Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas connected with Vermont business leaders at von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort today for the latest installment of the Wellspring Forum series. Each event in the series brings together top business and policy leaders for a thoughtful and engaging discussion on pressing economic issues and is moderated by Vermont Chamber President Amy Spear.

“The Wellspring Forum series creates space for meaningful conversations between business and policy leaders about the issues shaping Vermont’s future,” stated Spear. “Strong communities, a healthy civic culture, and a vibrant economy are deeply interconnected. We appreciate Secretary Copeland Hanzas joining us for a thoughtful discussion on the role employers can play in fostering civic engagement and strengthening community connections.”

Secretary Copeland Hanzas brings a unique statewide perspective on civic participation at a moment when many Vermonters are experiencing economic pressure, uncertainty, and polarization. She discussed the growing connection between civic responsibility, workforce culture, community trust, and long-term economic resilience. Business leaders shared perspectives on the importance of maintaining strong communities, fostering civic engagement in the workplace, and creating the conditions necessary to attract and retain workers and families in Vermont.

“Vermont’s future depends on our ability to build communities where people feel connected, engaged, and invested,” said Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas. “Civic participation is not separate from economic success; it is part of what makes our communities resilient. I appreciate the thoughtful conversation with Vermont business leaders about how we can work together to strengthen trust, encourage civic participation, and help our communities thrive.”

The Wellspring Forum series is supported by NBT Bank and AT&T. The event’s name draws inspiration from former Governor James H. Douglas, who once said: “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.”

June 3, 2026

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Vermont Chamber to Host National Civics Bee® State Finals Competition for Middle Schoolers in Stowe, Vermont

June 2, 2026

Vermont Chamber to Host National Civics Bee® State Finals Competition for Middle Schoolers in Stowe, Vermont

June 4, 2026June 2, 2026

Vermont Chamber to Host National Civics Bee® State Finals Competition for Middle Schoolers in Stowe, Vermont

(Stowe, VT) On Monday, June 8^th, The Vermont Chamber of Commerce will host a 2026 National Civics Bee State Finals Competition aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Middle school students from across Vermont will demonstrate their civics knowledge, discuss how they would solve a problem facing their community, compete for cash prizes, and the opportunity to move on to the National Championships in Washington, D.C., in Fall 2026.

More information about the event can be found here: Civics Bee Vermont Finals

WHO: The top ten Vermont middle school students from regional Civics Bee competitions. State Final judges include Martha Deiss, Education Program Coordinator (Social Studies) – Agency of Education, Robyn Palmer, Civic Engagement Director – Secretary of State’s office, Chris Sheehan, Founder – Twinfield Democracy Project. The Emcee of this year’s finals is Denise Smith, Executive Director – VT Council on Rural Development. The competition is open to the public.

WHAT: The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.

WHEN: Monday June 8^th 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

WHERE: Stowe Middle/High School, 413 Barrows Road, Stowe, VT

About the National Civics Bee^®
The National Civics Bee is a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state, regional, and local organizations across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.

About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state. As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.

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2026 Vermont Inspiration Guide is Now Available, Celebrating Local Businesses and Unexpected Experiences

May 22, 2026May 21, 2026

The 2026 Vermont Inspiration Guide is Now Available, Celebrating Local Businesses and Unexpected Experiences

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 state’s official travel publication. The Vermont Chamber produces the Inspiration Guide in partnership with VDTM each year. Print copies of the 2026/27 edition are now in distribution, reaching travelers across Vermont’s core drive markets and beyond to amplify Vermont businesses and inspire travel. Vermont’s visitor economy generates $4.2 billion in annual economic impact and employs 9% of the Vermont workforce.

The free Inspiration Guide is distributed throughout Vermont at Welcome and Information Centers, Burlington International Airport, Lake Champlain Ferries, lodging properties and tourism destinations statewide. It is also placed at premium retail outlets, travel hubs and airports across New England and New York as well as consumer shows and events throughout the United States and Canada. It is available through direct mail requests worldwide and in 2025 was mailed to travelers in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and more than 40 countries.

The guide is part of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s 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.

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 14 regions, the 2026 edition marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, commemorating the people, places and events of that era at museums, town historical societies and other cultural institutions.

The “Unexpected Experiences” feature article shines a spotlight on the hidden gems that define Vermont’s depth as a travel destination across the Green Mountain State.

Individuals, businesses and organizations can obtain free print copies of the 2026/27 Vermont Inspiration Guide by visiting https://vermontvacation.com/request-information/.

May 21, 2026

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Vermont Military Families Benefit from Diaper Drive at State House

May 15, 2026

Vermont Military Families Benefit from Diaper Drive at State House

On Thursday, May 14, lawmakers and citizens came together in the State House lobby to support the families of deployed Vermont National Guard members. Donations of over 2,600 diapers, thousands of wipes, and over $450 in individual monetary donations were collected throughout the day. Generous donations of $1,000 from Veterans Guardian, $1,000 from Veteran Benefits Guide, and $500 from American Legion, also contributed to the effort to support the households with infants and toddlers of affected Vermont Guard families.

Running through the Vermont Family Readiness Program with support of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and in coordination with the Vermont National Guard and Veteran Affairs Caucus, the event was focused on supporting families in Vermont communities who are navigating the challenges of deployment.

During deployment, families often face both financial and logistical pressures. Some service members experience a reduction in income during deployment compared to their civilian roles. At the same time, spouses at home may need to scale back or step away from work to manage childcare and household responsibilities independently. Diapers and wipes are amongst ongoing expenses that place added strain on family budgets, particularly during periods of transition and uncertainty.

The donations will be distributed directly by the Family Readiness Team to Vermont military families, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most in a timely and practical way.

Tourism Economy Day Brings Business and Policy Leaders Together at the State House

May 4, 2026April 17, 2026

Tourism Economy Day Brings Business and Policy Leaders Together at the State House

On Thursday, April 16, tourism and hospitality industry leaders gathered at the State House to engage with legislators and administration officials to highlight the collective contributions of the visitor economy to Vermont. Tourism Economy Day, convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Ski Vermont, brought businesses together to advocate for a strong Vermont visitor economy. 

Industry leaders shared perspectives during a joint legislative hearing with the House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development and the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs, offering real world insight into the opportunities and challenges facing Vermont’s tourism economy. 

Tourism Economy Day brought together business leaders, legislators, and administration officials, creating space for direct conversation between policymakers and the employers who power Vermont’s visitor economy. Industry voices from across the state shared perspectives rooted in their day-to-day operations and community impact. 

“A thriving tourism economy means vibrant communities and opportunity across Vermont,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “Tourism Economy Day ensures lawmakers hear directly from businesses. While the industry remains a major economic driver, employers are navigating workforce shortages, housing availability challenges, and rising costs.” 

Business leaders highlighted both the strengths of Vermont’s tourism economy and the challenges facing the industry. Key themes included workforce shortages, housing availability and affordability, healthcare costs, and declining Canadian visitation. Leaders also emphasized the importance of strengthening career pathways in hospitality, from culinary training to management and entrepreneurship. 

“Tourism businesses, including our ski areas, are a key driver of visitation and help support many rural communities across the state,” said Molly Mahar, President of Ski Vermont. “In addition to affordability issues and workforce and housing shortages, businesses also face an inefficient and inconsistent permitting process that adds cost and time to projects, affecting businesses’ ability to grow and remain competitive. Tourism Economy Day ensures those realities are part of the conversation as policymakers look ahead.”

The day’s programming included a joint legislative hearing, a presentation from the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, and a conversation with Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers. 

Commissioner Heather Pelham shared updates on visitation trends, marketing strategies, and the impact of tourism on the state’s economy. The day concluded with an acknowledgment on the House Floor recognizing tourism’s vital role in Vermont and declaring April 16, 2026, Tourism Economy Day. 

Tourism Economy Day highlights the role of tourism in advancing the Vermont economy through collaboration between businesses and policymakers. Vermont’s visitor economy has a $4.2 billion annual economic impact and employs 9% of the Vermont workforce.

April 17, 2026

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Manufacturing Day Brings Employers and Lawmakers Together at the State House

April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

Manufacturing Day Brings Employers and Lawmakers Together at the State House

On Thursday, April 2, industry leaders from Vermont’s manufacturing sector, gathered at the State House to connect with legislators and political leaders to highlight the industry’s significant contributions to Vermont’s economy, and to present the challenges and opportunities facing Vermont’s manufacturers.

With over 50 manufacturers from across Vermont in attendance, the day reflected broad, statewide engagement, several offering insightful testimony in legislative hearings with House and Senate committees. The testimony given included representatives and business owners from Nolato, Built By Newport, Vermont Frames, Chroma Technologies, and Vermont GaN Tech Hub. The day was also highlighted by an open forum and Q&A with Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers, a press conference, and the reading of a resolution on the House Floor declaring April 2, 2026 ‘Vermont Manufacturing Day.’

“Manufacturing is one of the clearest pathways we have to grow Vermont’s economy. It supports communities across every region and creates opportunity for Vermonters to build careers, support their families, and stay rooted here,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.

Key issues and themes raised throughout the day focused on the sustainability and growth of Vermont’s manufacturing businesses by expanding existing companies, attracting new firms to the state, and growing the manufacturing technology talent pool through Centers of Technical Education (CTE). Along with the many growth opportunities presented, including the new research and development tax incentive, came the barriers to the industries’ success. At the top of the list is affordable housing for additional workforce, the complexity and complexity of permitting, property taxes, and the rising cost of health care.

Manufacturing’s Contribution to Vermont’s Economy
Vermont’s manufacturing industry generates $2.92 billion economic impact, representing 7% of Vermont’s gross state product (GSP). The business make-up 7% of Vermont’s workforce, supporting 26,600 jobs across diverse sectors of economic industry. Manufacturing plays a pivotal role in the growth and development of both rural and urban communities throughout Vermont, representing businesses that are renowned globally and at the forefront of innovation across various industries. These manufacturers contribute significantly to fostering strategic relationships between the state and neighboring regions, including New England, New York, Canada, as well as the broader local and global economy.

April 3, 2026

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Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

February 26, 2026

Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing have announced the winners for the 2026/27 Vermont Signature Events program. These signature events offer experiences that fuel the Vermont visitor economy. In 2024, visitor spending hit a record by contributing $4.2 billion to Vermont’s economy.

2026/27 Vermont Signature Events:

Hardwick State (April 17-19, 2026): For one weekend, Hardwick becomes a townwide university where community members teach and learn from one another. Anyone can be a teacher, and everybody is a student, with free or donation-based classes ranging from practical skills like tire changing and chainsaw repair to philosophy, crocheting, cake decorating, and improv comedy.

Battenkill Fly Fishing and Art Festival (April 30–May 2, 2026): Held in Arlington, this three-day festival celebrates the spring-fed Battenkill River with speakers, workshops, fly-tyers, live music, a casting competition, a beer tent, and events centered on history, aquatic life, and sustainability.

M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay Weekend (May 22–24, 2026): Vermont’s largest single-day sporting event takes over Burlington with a scenic, spectator-friendly marathon course, a sports and fitness expo, youth mini-marathons, and a lively post-race festival at Waterfront Park.

Community Concerts on the Green (May 22–September 6, 2026): In Middlesex, Camp Meade hosts free live music every Friday and Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day, featuring local performers, art activities, artisan studios, food, drinks, and a relaxed community atmosphere.

Naulakha Estate and Rhododendron Tour (June 5–7, 2026): Normally reserved for overnight guests, Rudyard Kipling’s historic Dummerston estate opens for self-guided tours, offering rare access to the grounds and the iconic rhododendron tunnel during peak bloom season.

Jeezum Crow Festival (July 10–11, 2026): At Jay Peak Resort, this high-energy summer music festival features national and regional acts, local food and craft vendors, and a laid-back mountain setting. Past performers include Del McCoury, Dark Star Orchestra, and Yonder Mountain String Band.

New World Festival (September 6, 2026): Downtown Randolph hosts this celebration of Celtic and Québécois traditional music and dance, with performances across five stages, street acts, called dances, kids’ activities, and food and drink from local vendors.

Puppets in the Green Mountains (September 11–20, 2026): Based in Brattleboro, this biennial international festival showcases puppet theater for all ages through performances, workshops, and forums that emphasize creativity, compassion, and storytelling.

Vermont Cheese Week (September 13–20, 2026): A statewide celebration featuring cheese-themed restaurant specials, farm tours, dinners, tastings, and special events that highlight Vermont’s award-winning cheesemakers and the landscapes behind their craft.

Cores and Pours (September 18, 2026): In Woodstock, this evening event invites visitors to explore Vermont’s small-batch cider scene with guided tastings led by a local pommelier, meet artisanal cider-makers, and enjoy local food offerings.

Rocktoberfest (September 26, 2026): Morrisville’s Portland Street transforms into a lively fall street festival with live bands, an Adirondack Chair Auction, dance performances, family activities, and food and retail vendors in a free, community-focused setting.

Vermont Circus Festival (November 1–8, 2026): Presented in Brattleboro by the New England Center for Circus Arts, this weeklong festival features circus workshops, performances, community events, and multiple shows ranging from cabaret to experimental circus.

The Vermont Signature Events program offers an invaluable opportunity for events to garner widespread recognition. Signature events are awarded annually and showcase the rich variety of experiences to be had in the Green Mountains. These top-rated events offer a true taste of all that is local, bringing visitors into the heart of communities and serving as an important component in the Vermont visitor economy.

Learn more about the Vermont Signature Events program and access the 2027/28 application here.

February 26, 2026

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Nominations Open for the 2026 Vermont Economic Leadership & Impact Awards

February 20, 2026

Nominations Open for the 2026 Vermont Economic Leadership & Impact Awards

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the Vermont Economic Leadership & Impact Awards. Each year, the Vermont Chamber recognizes individuals whose leadership and service advance Vermont’s economy and strengthen our communities. The two award categories include ‘Citizen of the Year’ and ‘Above and Beyond.’

The Citizen of the Year award recognizes an individual who:

Made major contributions to the betterment of Vermont
Been distinguished through outstanding service to the community and region
Typifies the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice in representing the finest ideals of Vermont citizenship.

The Above and Beyond Award recognizes an individual who:

Demonstrate excellence and outstanding achievement through initiative, innovation, or creative problem solving.
Reinforce and elevate the values of their organization through professionalism and dedication.
Lead with integrity, setting a high personal standard and fostering a collaborative team environment.
Go above and beyond expectations through perseverance, accountability, and commitment to results.
Make a meaningful and sustained impact on their industry by sharing knowledge and building strong professional relationships.

Prior recipients of the Citizen of the Year Award include (2025) Major General Gregory Knight, (2024) Tom Dee, and (2023) Senator Patrick Leahy.

Nominations can be submitted online here until March 1.

February 20, 2026

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Birnn Chocolates of Vermont Named Outstanding Business of the Year

January 13, 2026

Birnn Chocolates of Vermont Named Outstanding Business of the Year

Award to be Presented at the Vermont Economic Conference

VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce Birnn Chocolates of Vermont as the recipient of the Outstanding Business of the Year Award. The award will be presented on January 27 at the Vermont Economic Conference, the state’s premier economic gathering of business and policy leaders.

Founded in 1915, Birnn Chocolates of Vermont represents more than a century of craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and enduring commitment to doing business with integrity. Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, the company has grown into a nationally distributed brand while keeping its roots and its production firmly planted in Vermont.

“Birnn Chocolates of Vermont is deeply honored to be named Outstanding Business of the Year,” said Julia Birnn Fields, fourth generation owner. “Choosing to build and grow our business in Vermont was an intentional decision. It allows us to operate in a place where relationships matter and where businesses have the opportunity to make a real, positive impact. Today, every truffle we sell in all 50 states is made right here in South Burlington. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, including many employees who have been with us for decades, and the opportunity I have, as the fourth generation, to carry forward our family’s legacy of doing good, honest business while contributing meaningfully to Vermont’s economy.”

Birnn Chocolates of Vermont exemplifies what it means to grow with purpose, balancing innovation and scale with deep respect for people, place, and community. The company is known not only for its premium truffles, but also for being a trusted employer, a reliable wholesale partner, and a business that has chosen to invest long-term in Vermont.

“Birnn Chocolates of Vermont reflects the very best of Vermont business,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “For more than a century, this family-owned company has shown that you can grow, compete nationally, and stay deeply rooted in Vermont. Their commitment to quality, workforce stability, and local investment embodies what it looks like when businesses strengthen both the economy and the communities around them.”

Katie Kittell, Publisher of VermontBiz, echoed that sentiment. “Outstanding Business of the Year honors companies that demonstrate leadership, resilience, and positive impact over time,” said Katie Kittell. “Birnn Chocolates of Vermont stands out for its longevity, its values, and its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. Their story is one that deserves to be celebrated statewide.”

For over 35 years, VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present the Outstanding Business of the Year award, recognizing Vermont companies that demonstrate excellence in business operations, community engagement, workforce investment, and long-term contribution to the state’s economy. Birnn Chocolates of Vermont will be formally recognized during the Vermont Economic Conference, where hundreds of business leaders from across the state will gather for insight, connection, and conversation about Vermont’s economic future.

For 35 years, VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present the Outstanding Business of the Year Award, recognizing the state’s most dynamic and community-minded companies.

January 13, 2026

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

November 21, 2025November 20, 2025

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.

November 20, 2025