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Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces Winner of the National Civics Bee® Vermont Competition

June 30, 2025

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces Winner of the National Civics Bee® Vermont Competition

Barre, VT (June 30, 2025)—Last Wednesday, June 25, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 Vermont State Civics Bee at the historic Barre Opera House. The National Civics Bee, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is a nationwide competition designed to encourage young Americans to engage in civics and deepen their understanding of the U.S. government, Constitution, and civic responsibilities. Open to middle school students, the Bee challenges participants through a series of local, state, and national competitions that include essay writing and live quizzes. By fostering civic knowledge and participation, the National Civics Bee aims to inspire the next generation of informed, responsible citizens and leaders.

“Our communities are built on the foundations of civics. By hosting the first ever Vermont State Civics Bee, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce wants to help students in our state appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives,” said Vermont Chamber president, Amy Spear.

“We are facing a civics crisis in America. Surveys show that 70% of adults cannot pass a basic civics quiz, and 79% of 8th graders fall below proficiency in civics. This threatens the strength, prosperity, and resilience of our nation. The National Civics Bee is dedicated to enhancing civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young people and adults alike, inspiring the next generation to make a positive impact in their communities.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

After a distinguished panel of national judges reviewed the essays, the top essay finalists from the first-round civics essay competition were selected to advance to the local competition, with the top ten students invited to compete at Wednesday’s statewide competition. The live event, emceed by WCAX’s Darren Perron, featured two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round to test their civics knowledge. Marshall M. from Burke Town School took first place, followed by William B. of Christ the King School, Taylor P. of Miller’s Run School and Damien S. of Burke Town School for second, third, and fourth places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were: Megan Sullivan, Vice President of Government Affairs at the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Robyn Palmer, Director of Civic and Voter Engagement for the Office of Vermont Secretary of State, and Martha Deiss, the Agency of Education’s Global Citizenship Specialist, overseeing K-12 Social Studies, World Language, and Financial Literacy.

The finalists impressed the judges with their eloquence and critical thinking, their ability to identify problems in their communities and identify solutions, and their commitment to improving the nation’s future alongside other bright and engaged youth.

First place winner Marshall explained: “I am so happy to be getting my message across and be getting out into the world…I am a proud Vermonter and an ashamed American, and I want to make sure America is not straying away from its core beliefs.” His essay topic focused on voter representation and the electoral college system.

The finalists and top winners received various prizes, including $1,000 cash for the first-place winner. The first-place winner of the Vermont competition also earned a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship later this fall. Prizes at the National Championship include a grand prize of a $100,000 529 plan for first place, $25,000 for second place, and $15,000 for third place.

For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: National Civics Bee – The Civic Trust®.

First photo below (left to write): William B., Damien S., Marshall M., and Taylor P.

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A picture of the chamber at the Vermont State House

26 Ways Legislative and Executive Action or Inaction Could Impact Businesses After the 2025 Session

June 19, 2025

Vermont Chamber to Host 2025 National Civics Bee® Vermont State Finals on June 25

June 18, 2025

26 Ways Legislative and Executive Action or Inaction Could Impact Businesses After the 2025 Session

June 19, 2025

26 Ways Legislative and Executive Action or Inaction Could Impact Businesses After the 2025 Session

The 2025 legislative session delivered a mix of progress, pause, and uncertainty for Vermont employers. Lawmakers advanced proposals to support workforce development, housing, and infrastructure—but also continued a pattern of high spending, new mandates, and regulatory burdens.

Key decisions this year—from to-go cocktails to major education and tax reforms—will shape Vermont’s business climate for years to come. Below is a snapshot of 26 developments, delays, and decisions from the session that employers should know.

🪙$ 3 Billion in cost increases over the last five years as the state budget has ballooned from $5.8 billion to $9.1 billion in spending. This year-over-year increase is a troubling pattern for an affordable future.

🚛Costly EV truck and car regulations under the Clean Car and Clean Truck Acts were paused by Governor Scott, recognizing the lack of available EV infrastructure and affordable all-electric vehicle options for businesses and consumers.

🤝The Small Business Development Center received an additional $150,000 in state funding to provide expert advising to businesses across the state.

🍹A pandemic innovation, to-go cocktails will be a permanent program allowing restaurants to offer drinks to-go with takeout food orders.

🧪Chemicals used in manufacturing will receive additional regulatory oversight or a full ban with a timeline for implementation phased in over the next few years.

👩‍⚕️Small businesses will not have to shoulder the added weight of subsidizing premiums for the individual healthcare market. The individual and small group markets have been permanently separated.

🫂Unpaid Leave Expansion starts July 1, creating an expanded, more inclusive definition of family, and adding other types of leave, including bereavement and safe leave.

👩🏽‍🎓Advance Vermont received $150,000 in funding to continue building out Vermont’s premier online hub for career and education exploration and planning.

🧑🏽‍🍳Non-stick cookware ban has been pushed back to 2028 to allow more time for alternative products to be widely available for consumers and restaurants.

💵Property taxes were bought down with $77 million in one-time funds to keep this year’s increase at an average of 1%. It is not clear yet how that bill will be paid next year.

🪖Military Retiree Pensions will be exempt from taxation at $125,000 of income and scaled down to $175,000 of income, making Vermont a more desirable destination for retirees in search of a second career.

💦Stormwater Management reforms extend deadlines for business to comply with three-acre impervious surface permits, with varying dates depending on the watershed.

🏠Available Housing remains elusive for middle-income Vermonters, but some relief will be felt with $15 million of funding in the budget for the Missing Middle-Income Homeownership Development Program and the Renter Revolving Loan Fund.

🍀Irish Trade could be in focus with a newly created Irish Trade Commission aimed at opening new markets between Vermont and the Emerald Isle.

💻Data Privacy legislation that balanced consumer protections with business access to digital marketing tools passed the Senate unanimously before being inexplicably sidelined in the House. The bill is expected to be taken up again next year. For now, Vermont businesses remain unregulated, and Vermonters have no legal data privacy protections.

🌲Rural infrastructure capacity got a major boost with the creation of a new tax increment financing tool, which can be used by small and large communities to build infrastructure that will support housing.

🏫Education Reform crossed its major hurdle with a sweeping reform bill aimed at revamping the entire system’s financial and governance structures in an effort to control costs and refocus the education system on students.

💰Proposed Business Only Property Tax Classification, which meant to treat businesses as a valve to stabilize other taxpayers, was removed from the education reform bill after advocacy from the business community and the Governor. This demonstrated the power of coordinated business advocacy.

🏘️Infrastructure Sustainability Fund was created and funded with $7.5 million in the Vermont Bond Bank to expand infrastructure development financing opportunities across Vermont.

❤️‍🩹Healthcare Premiums are expected to see a fourth year of unsustainable increases, but with a new law which will limit the markup of certain prescription drugs, those increases will be 4% lower than originally projected.

🤖UVM Tech Hub will leverage $750,000 in newly appropriated state funds, with additional private investment, to fuel business growth and rural workforce development across the state.

👷🏽‍♀️Employer Mandates were largely tabled this year after critical testimony on the various proposals put forward. Increasing minimum wage to $25 an hour, implementing a fine for not providing enough employee seating, removing at-will employment, and mandating temperature related benefits are just a few of the proposals that businesses will not need to implement this year. However, they may re-emerge next year for consideration.

🍁Montreal Business Development Office will continue to operate, encouraging Canadian businesses to consider expansion opportunities in Vermont with an investment of $150,000 for the next year.

🏢Convention Center Feasibility will be studied over the summer by interested parties to understand what is involved in bringing larger conventions, and the dollars that follow, to the Green Mountain State.

🧹Brownfield remediation projects will get another $1 million in funding for the assessment, remediation, and redevelopment of sites.

💸Clean Heat Standard was neither implemented nor repealed. As a result, this high expense program will not move forward this year, though further legislative action is needed with the Global Warming Solutions Act lawsuits still looming.

June 19, 2025

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Vermont Chamber to Host 2025 National Civics Bee® Vermont State Finals on June 25

June 18, 2025

Vermont Chamber to Host 2025 National Civics Bee® Vermont State Finals on June 25

Barre, VT (June 18, 2025) – On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce will host the 2025 National Civics Bee® Vermont State Finals at the Barre Opera House. Ten middle school finalists will demonstrate their knowledge of civics through quiz rounds and a live Q&A, as part of a nationwide effort to inspire civic engagement among young Americans.

Presented in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Northeast Kingdom Chamber, the event celebrates students who have proposed solutions to improve their communities. The state champion will advance to the National Civics Bee® Championship in Washington, D.C., with a chance to win college savings prizes of $100,000, $25,000, or $15,000.

“Civic knowledge and engagement are foundational to a vibrant democracy,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “This contest offers an outstanding opportunity to spotlight remarkable young Vermonters and inspire broader enthusiasm for civic life—an essential part of building strong communities and a resilient Vermont economy.”

Thanks to a partnership with the Barre Partnership, the first 75 attendees will receive a $10 food truck voucher redeemable in nearby Currier Park, turning the evening into a true community celebration. Admission is free and open to the public.

To learn more and register to attend, visit vtchamber.com/national-civics-bee-vermont-2025/.

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June 30, 2025

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Business Advocacy Helps Drives Key Change in Education Finance Bill

June 13, 2025

Business Advocacy Helps Drives Key Change in Education Finance Bill

In a major shift from earlier proposals, the latest version of Vermont’s education reform bill no longer includes a separate tax category that would have targeted businesses. This change follows sustained advocacy from employers across the state and represents a significant shift for Vermont’s business community.

Following heavy outreach from businesses, the conference committee on H.454 has adopted a new draft that eliminates the creation of a standalone “business” tax class. Instead, the latest version consolidates commercial, industrial, and rental properties into a single nonhomestead nonresidential category, replacing the four-tier classification system with a three-tier classification system.

What the New Language Does

The revised draft includes detailed implementation rules for how real estate will be classified for property tax purposes, beginning with calendar year 2027:

Every parcel on the grand list will be assigned one or more of three general classes:
- Homestead: A parcel or portion of a parcel declared as a homestead by October 15.
- Nonhomestead Residential: Year-round dwellings where no homestead was declared, and no long-term lease was reported.
- Nonhomestead Nonresidential: All other property not meeting the definitions above, including businesses.
Parcels with multiple uses will be classified proportionally based on the floor space used for each purpose. However, if a homestead contains 25% or less business use, it will still be treated fully as a homestead.
Listers and assessors must update the grand list annually by June 1, with updates allowed after that date if taxpayers file or correct their declarations.
The Commissioner of Taxes will amend and issue new forms for classification and will collect data in 2027 to assign and report classifications statewide by October 1 of that year.

Appeals of property classifications can be made through the existing valuation appeal process. These provisions do not impact the treatment of parcels enrolled in Vermont’s current use (use value appraisal) program.

A Step in the Right Direction

While this adjustment resolves the most significant concern for Vermont businesses in H.454, the bill remains large in scope. The revised classification system still segregates second homes as a standalone classification, raising long-term concerns about the sustainability of a model that places increasing financial pressure on second home property owners, particularly in communities that depend on tourism and second home investment.

Moreover, the broader challenge remains: Vermont’s education finance system continues to struggle under the weight of high and rising costs. Rather than restructuring who pays more, long-term reforms must focus on what is being spent and why. Cost containment, not cost shifting, must be the foundation of future action.

What’s Next

The H.454 Committee of Conference continues to remain at odds on other areas of the bill but is expected to finalize the full bill before Monday, June 16, when the Legislature reconvenes to pass a final education funding package and adjourn for the session. The Vermont Chamber will continue to monitor the negotiations and advocate for a fair, sustainable system that shares responsibility across all property types, and does not jeopardize the state’s economic competitiveness.

In the meantime, Vermont’s business community recognizes and appreciates the lawmakers who listened to Vermont employers and revised the bill in response to real-world concerns. This outcome reflects the power of direct advocacy and the importance of Vermont businesses remaining active participants in shaping the policy decisions that affect them.

June 13, 2025

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NBT Chief Economist Ken Entenmann and Tax Commissioner Bill Shouldice Join Vermont Business Leaders for Wellspring Forum

June 12, 2025

NBT Chief Economist Ken Entenmann and Tax Commissioner Bill Shouldice Join Vermont Business Leaders for Wellspring Forum

Burlington, VT (June 12, 2025) – Vermont business and policy leaders gathered last week at NBT Bank in Burlington for the latest installment of the Vermont Chamber’s Wellspring Forum series. The event featured a timely conversation with Ken Entenmann, the Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer, and Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management, and Vermont Tax Commissioner Bill Shouldice, moderated by Vermont Chamber President, Amy Spear.

“Connecting business and policy leaders around timely economic issues is central to our mission,” said Spear. “In today’s climate of uncertainty, data-informed dialogue is essential. Ken and Commissioner Shouldice provided valuable insight into how national and state-level trends intersect—and how we can move forward with clarity and focus.”

Entenmann offered a national perspective, using his now-familiar “soft vs. hard” ice cream analogy to explore the tension between market sentiment and economic fundamentals. He shared analysis on GDP, labor markets, and inflation, noting that while investor caution remains, the hard data points to continued resilience in the U.S. economy.

“Uncertainty is the one constant in today’s economic climate,” said Entenmann. “But we can still find clarity by focusing on what the data tells us—not just the headlines. That’s what allows businesses, investors, and policymakers to make smart, long-term decisions.”

Commissioner Shouldice brought the conversation closer to home, outlining Vermont’s fiscal footing and how recent legislative choices are shaping the state’s economic outlook. With experience spanning both public service and private sector leadership, Shouldice emphasized the importance of affordability, long-term planning, and aligning policy with real-time data.

“We are at an economic crossroads,” Shouldice said. “Creating an environment that is sustainable, predictable, and affordable for all Vermonters should be our primary focus. Vermonters work hard, and the Scott administration is thinking about ways to keep money in their pockets.”

The Wellspring Forum series is supported by NBT Bank. 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.”

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Vermont Chamber of Commerce Honors Major General Knight as 2025 Citizen of the Year

May 23, 2025May 23, 2025

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Honors Major General Knight as 2025 Citizen of the Year

Stowe, VT (May 23, 2025) – On May 21, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce celebrated Major General Gregory Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, as the 2025 Citizen of the Year at an event in his honor. Colleagues, friends, and family members gathered at the historic von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort to recognize Major General Knight’s outstanding contributions to Vermont.

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. Major General Knight has exemplified these qualities through his proactive leadership, workforce development initiatives, and dedication to ensuring every soldier and airman feels valued.

“When I look around Vermont in my role as the Adjutant General, I realize Vermont is a very special place. We need more believers in Vermont, and we need to bring more believers—and their talent and experience—here,” said Major General Knight. “I am convinced more than ever of two things: the excellence of our people and the importance of relationships.”

Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, also shared her thoughts on the occasion, saying, “Those who know General Knight speak of his humility, his accessibility, and his unwavering care for the people he serves— whether they wear the uniform or not. His leadership is rooted in humanity, and it has left an indelible mark not just on the Vermont Guard, but on our entire state.”

Remarks celebrating General Knight were delivered by Kristina von Trapp Frame, von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, Greg Maguire, Liquid Measurement Systems, Brigadier General Hank Harder, Deputy Adjutant General of the National Guard Association of Vermont, and the Vermont National Guard and Veterans Affairs Legislative Caucus.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has been honoring outstanding Vermonters with the Citizen of the Year award since 1964. Previous recipients include Tom Dee, Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. This year’s celebration was a testament to Major General Knight’s remarkable contributions and his enduring legacy in Vermont. This event was supported by these generous sponsors: von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort, Casella, Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation, Farrell Distributing, the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, and the Vermont Department of Labor.

May 23, 2025

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Housing Bill Amendment Moves in the Wrong Direction

May 16, 2025May 16, 2025

Housing Bill Amendment Moves in the Wrong Direction

“Bureaucracy is the death of any achievement.” — Albert Einstein

Einstein’s warning feels especially relevant this week as legislative changes threaten to derail a key housing development tool when Vermont needs it most. As the state continues to grapple with a critical housing shortage impacting businesses and communities statewide, lawmakers focused on refining the Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP), the latest version of a targeted Tax Increment Financing (TIF) model that has been in development for five years. Designed to fund essential public infrastructure like water, sewer, and roads, CHIP is meant to unlock housing projects that would otherwise remain financially unfeasible. However, recent amendments have added layers of bureaucracy and limitations that risk stalling progress at a time when swift, effective action is essential.

The core principle of TIF is that the increase in property tax revenue generated by a new development (the “increment”) is used to repay the infrastructure bonds, leveraging future growth to finance necessary investments. Without this infrastructure, many housing developments cannot financially move forward meaning the new tax revenue wouldn’t exist anyway.

After the House Ways and Means Committee made sweeping changes to the CHIP proposal, a joint hearing was held by the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee and the House General and Housing Committee. Lawmakers who had spent weeks developing the Senate’s policy framework raised serious concerns, as the amendments appeared to create new barriers rather than improvements.

According to Ways and Means, the changes were intended to provide “reasonable guardrails” on the use of education property tax increment. In practice, the added provisions are more restrictive than protective. Key changes include:

Housing Percentage Requirement: Mandates 65% of a project’s floor area be housing, limiting flexibility for rural or adaptive reuse projects.
Education Tax Retention Rate: Lowers the retention rate from 75% to 60%, with an optional 80% for deeply income-restricted housing, raising viability concerns.
$40 Million Cap: Imposes a total annual cap that may disadvantage under-resourced as well as large communities and limit program impact during a housing crisis.
“But-For” Test: Requires developers to prove projects wouldn’t proceed without the incentive, adding new hoops to jump through during a well-documented housing crisis.
Sunset Date: Introduces a 2028 end date for the standard TIF program without policy committee discussion, creating long-term uncertainty to an established economic development tool.

The Vermont Chamber is deeply disappointed in the direction this bill has taken. The House Ways and Means Committee’s amendments undermine a carefully negotiated policy intended to spur urgently needed housing in communities struggling with affordability. Rather than advancing a tool to meet the scale of Vermont’s affordability and development crisis, the proposal now adds delay, complexity, and uncertainty. In the remaining two weeks of the session, the Vermont Chamber urges legislators to work collaboratively to move this proposal back into a form that meets the moment—with bold, flexible solutions that support all communities in building desperately needed infrastructure that will support all types of housing.

May 16, 2025

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

April 15, 2025April 11, 2025

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

Over 100 tourism and hospitality industry leaders gathered at the State House on April 10 to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy. Tourism Economy Day, convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Ski Vermont and Vermont Specialty Food Association, brought businesses together to advocate for a thriving Vermont visitor economy.

The Vermont visitor economy has a $4 billion annual economic impact and represents 10% of our workforce. In 2023 alone, 15.8 million visitors spent $4.0 billion across lodging, dining, retail, entertainment, recreation, and more. Their spending also contributed $282.3 million in state and local taxes—equivalent to approximately $1,039 per Vermont household. Businesses, legislative leaders, and Administration officials collaborated for a day of advocacy that elevated the collective contributions of the visitor economy to Vermont. Advocacy day highlights included a joint hearing with the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs and House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, a joint resolution recognizing April 10, 2025, as Tourism Economy Day, and an evening food and beverage tasting reception with the Vermont Specialty Food Association.

Rep. Abbey Duke (Chittenden-17), a stalwart supporter of the tourism industry, shared “Vermont’s tourism sector is a cornerstone of our state economy, generating billions in economic activity, supporting tens of thousands of jobs, and enriching our communities. It’s essential for legislators to support policies that foster sustainable growth in tourism, including investments in infrastructure, housing, workforce development, and supporting local businesses.”

“A thriving tourism economy means vibrant communities and a chance for everyone—whether you’re a local or a visitor—to experience the very best of Vermont. However, the industry is facing challenges echoed by so many across the state: an aging declining workforce and a critical housing shortage.” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “It’s crucial that we find a path towards affordability and abundance, improving economic conditions. Vermont’s beauty and charm are undeniable, and together, we can create an environment where both our tourism industry and our communities can thrive for generations to come.”

Business leaders highlighted the following sentiments in their testimonies: the role of tourism supporting Vermont’s economy and communities, the industry’s centrality in providing jobs and making Vermont an appealing destination to both live and visit, and the collective challenges facing businesses in the industry, including: workforce shortages, workforce housing accessibility and affordability, rising taxes and high operating costs and a strained relationship with Canadian neighbors due to federal rhetoric.

“Outdoor recreation is a significant part of Vermont’s tourism economy, driving visits and fueling the economy in many rural parts of our state. In 2023, outdoor recreation accounted for 4.8% of the state’s GDP, or $2.1B annually, and 5.1% of the state’s workforce, according to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis,” said Molly Mahar, President of Vermont Ski Areas Association. “Vermont ranks second only to Hawaii in percent of GDP generated by outdoor recreation, which is largely driven by activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and camping. However, businesses are grappling with workforce and housing shortages, higher costs, and new uncertainty around Canadian visitation levels, which limit growth.”

Additional business and policy leaders that testified were Nina Ridhibhinyo, Director of Programs & Strategy at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Randy George, Owner of Red Hen Baking Co., Québec Delegate Rene Sylvestre of the Québec Government Office in Boston, Will Kriewald, CEO of Basin Harbor Resort and Boat Club, Abby Long, Executive Director of Kingdom Trails, Kate Trzaskos, Executive Director of Downtown Brattleboro, Vicky Allard, Founder and Executive Chef at Blake Hill Preserves, Steve Wright, President/General Manager at Jay Peak Resort, and Kim Jackson, Director of Communications and Marketing at Vermont Adaptive.

The day ended with a Vermont Specialty Food Association Legislative Tasting, featuring vendors from across Vermont. Karin Cioffi, Executive Director of VSFA shared, “Vermont’s specialty food and beverage producers are a cornerstone of the state’s identity and a driving force behind the visitor experience. Tourists don’t just come for the views, they come to taste Vermont. From handcrafted cheeses to small batch spirits, these products represent the passion, innovation, and resilience of our local businesses. Our evening tasting event at the State House showcased the incredible talent of producers across the state and underscored just how vital this industry is to Vermont’s economy, culture, and continued appeal as a destination.”

Photo Credit for Images 3 and 4: Blake Hill Preserves

April 11, 2025

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April 9, 2025

64 Vermont Chamber Members Named 2025 Best of Business Winners

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce congratulates our members who have been named recipients of the VermontBiz 2025 Best of Business Awards. This year, over 100 Vermont companies were recognized as the best in their category, including 64 Vermont Chamber members.

This awards program celebrates the best Vermont companies in more than 100 business-to-business categories. To identify the winners, VermontBiz surveyed magazine and digital subscribers, asking their readers – the business leaders of Vermont – who they trust to provide their services in 120 different categories.

Vermont Chamber members that were named to the 2025 list include:

Category:	Winner:
Best Hotel for Business Travel: Chittenden County	Hotel Vermont
Best Hotel for Business Travel: Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties	Basin Harbor
Best Hotel for Business Travel: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center
Best Hotel for Business Travel: Windham/Windsor Counties	Woodstock Inn
Best Credit Union: Chittenden County	Vermont Federal Credit Union
Best Credit Union: Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties	EastRise Credit Union
Best Credit Union: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	EastRise Credit Union
Best Credit Union: Windham/Windsor Counties	Vermont Federal Credit Union
Best Bank: Chittenden County	Community Bank
Best Bank: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Community National Bank
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events: Chittenden County	The Essex Resort & Spa
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events: Rutland/Bennington Counties	Mountain Top Resort
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events: Windham/Windsor Counties	Woodstock Inn
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events: Chittenden County	Champlain Valley Exposition
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events: Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties	Basin Harbor
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events: Rutland/Bennington Counties	Killington Grand Hotel
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events: Windham/Windsor Counties	Woodstock Inn
Best Golf Course: Chittenden County	Burlington Country Club
Best Golf Course: Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties	Basin Harbor
Best Golf Course: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Stowe Country Club
Best Golf Course: Rutland/Bennington Counties	Green Mountain National
Best Golf Course: Windham/Windsor Counties	Lake Morey Resort
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch: Chittenden County	Windjammer Restaurant
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Sarducci’s
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch: Windham/Windsor Counties	Grafton Inn
Best Restaurant for Business Dinner: Chittenden County	Windjammer Restaurant
Best After-Work Bar: Chittenden County	Waterworks Food + Drink
Best After-Work Bar: Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties	14th Star Brewing Company
Best After-Work Bar: Central Vermont/Northeast Region	Three Penny Taproom
Best Bank Statewide:	Northfield Savings Bank
Best Credit Union Statewide:	Vermont Federal Credit Union
Best Website Developer:	Eternity
Best Travel Agency For Business Travel:	Milne Travel
Best Downhill Ski Area:	Smugglers’ Notch Resort
Best Cross Country Ski Area:	Trapp Family Lodge
Best Electricity Provider:	Green Mountain Power
Best Fuel Provider:	Vermont Gas
Best General Contractor:	DEW Construction, ReArch Company
Best Lumber Company:	rk MILES, Inc.
Best IT Service:	Open Approach
Best Telephone Service:	Burlington Telecom
Best Internet Provider:	Comcast
Best Copier Provider:	SymQuest
Best Commercial Printer:	Paw Print & Mail
Best Accounting Firm:	Gallagher Flynn & Company LLP
Best Commercial Real Estate Broker:	V/T Commercial
Best Property Management Company:	Redstone
Best Waste Removal Company:	Casella Waste Services
Best MBA Program:	UVM
Best Online Degree Program:	Champlain College
Best Employee Benefits Firm:	The Richards Group
Best Health Insurance Provider:	BlueCross BlueShield of Vermont
Best Large Health Care Provider: 600+ Employees	University of Vermont Medical Center
Best Boat Dealer:	Saba Marine
Best Vermont Made Product:	Darn Tough Vermont
Best Vermont Made Beverage:	Barr Hill
Best Vermont Made Food Product:	Cabot Creamery Co-operative
Best Bankruptcy Law Firm:	Primmer Piper Eggelston & Cramer PC
Best Corporate Law Firm:	Gravel and Shea
Best Intellectual Property Law Firm:	Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC
Best Manufacturer:	Cabot Creamery Co-operative

Congratulations again to our members who were recipients of the 2025 Best of Business in Vermont Awards.

April 9, 2025

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Vermont Manufacturing Day Brings Business and Policy Leaders Together at the State House

April 4, 2025April 3, 2025

Vermont Manufacturing Day Brings Business and Policy Leaders Together at the State House

Over 100 manufacturing industry leaders gathered at the State House on April 2 to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of this industry to the Vermont economy. Vermont Manufacturing Day, convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Associated Industries of Vermont, Regional Development Corporations of Vermont, and Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center, brought businesses together to increase awareness, build relationships, and tell the story of the industry.

The Vermont Manufacturing economy has a $3 billion annual economic impact (over 8% of the state’s GDP), supports 30,000 jobs, and represents 10.5% of Vermont’s workforce. Businesses, legislative leaders, and Administration officials collaborated for a day of advocacy to elevate the collective contributions of the manufacturing sector to Vermont. Advocacy day highlights included a joint hearing with the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs and House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, a listening session with Speaker Jill Krowinski, a listening session with Lieutenant Governor John Rogers, and a joint resolution recognizing April 2, 2025 as Vermont Manufacturing Day.

Rep. Jonathan Cooper (Bennington-1), shared “In this resolution, we affirm the value and necessity of a thriving manufacturing sector in the Green Mountain State. Accounting for more than 10 percent of Vermont’s private sector jobs, and boasting an average wage well above the statewide figure, the manufacturing industry provides a variety of high-quality, skilled jobs that are the backbone of our state’s economy. This sector plays a key role in both economic stability and prosperity, particularly in our rural communities,” commented Rep. Cooper.

“What sets Vermont manufacturers apart is their commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement. They are agile, people-focused, and solutions-oriented. And that culture of excellence is essential to building a more competitive, more resilient Vermont economy,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “Manufacturing Day is more than a celebration—it’s a vital opportunity to connect Vermont’s business leaders and legislators. It’s how we strengthen understanding, build partnerships, and advance policies that support a thriving manufacturing sector.”

At the press conference, Vermont Commerce Secretary Lindsay Kurrle shared, “Manufacturers produce goods, create high-quality and high-paying jobs, and contribute to the economic success of Vermont. From aerospace to semiconductors and injection molding to socks – our manufacturing landscape is varied and thriving. At the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, our Department of Economic Development team is invested in manufacturing. We are committed to recruiting new businesses to Vermont and supporting the ones that are already here.”

“Manufacturers across Vermont face challenges including high energy costs, aging infrastructure, and a tight labor market. It’s important that we all work together to develop targeted programs that provide both immediate and long-term support to overcome these challenges,” said Alex Demoly, Vice President of the Greater Burlington Industrial Corp. “With continued industry support, we can help Vermont manufacturers modernize their facilities, improve their competitiveness, and expand their workforce development efforts.”

Business leaders highlighted the following sentiments in their testimonies: the role of manufacturing in helping to sustain a diverse economy that supports a range of other industries, the sector’s centrality in providing jobs and fostering innovation throughout the state, including in more rural communities, and the collective challenges facing businesses in the industry, including: workforce development and access to skilled labor, workforce housing accessibility and affordability, and rising costs.

“According to Deloitte, the U.S. is projected to have more than 2 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030 nationwide. With Vermont’s aging population and a housing crisis, we are particularly vulnerable to being even further left behind,” said Diane Abruzzini. “There is momentum towards reshoring manufacturing back to the U.S. and Vermont has a real opportunity to be a part of that. To do so, we must address the structural challenges that make doing business here difficult, while building on the collaborative strengths that make Vermont a supportive place to grow.”

Additional business and policy leaders that testified were: Mike Rainville, Founder and Owner of Maple Landmark, Jim Tringe, Director of Plant Services at Cabot, Brian Kippen, President/CEO of KAD Models & Prototypes, Inc., Elizabeth Dunn, Director of Distribution and In-House Manufacturing at USA Brands, Alberto Aguilar, President and CEO at Carris Reels, and Meg Hammond, Executive Director of Generator.