Regional Planning & Economic Development in the Northeast Kingdom

David Snedeker, Executive Director

Email: [email protected]

e-Newsletter – April 2025

Community Announcements

Upcoming Webinar: Municipal Strategies for Managing Short-Term Rentals – April 2nd, 12-1:30 PM

Short-term rentals have increasingly become a valuable local lodging solution in communities that lack traditional accommodations. However, these rentals can also lead to various challenges such as increased demand on public resources, depletion of local housing stock, and disturbances in quiet residential areas. To address this, we are hosting a webinar featuring a panel of four town leaders from across the region. They will share their diverse insights and experiences regarding how their communities have successfully managed short-term rental regulations. Attendees must register via Zoom to secure their spot. Register here.

Regional Project Priority List Updates

The Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA) is currently in the process of updating the Regional Project Prioritization (RPP) List. For more detailed information on the prioritization process, please visit the NVDA website here. Submissions must include a completed Regional Priority Project Form, which should be sent to Annie McLean at [email protected] by 5:00 PM on April 30th to be considered for inclusion in the May RPP update.

Act 181 Resource Page

Passed in June 2024, Act 181 dramatically overhauls Act 250, bringing about significant changes for state, regional, and municipal planning efforts. Among its major features is the shift to a “location-based” jurisdiction under Act 250, aimed at simplifying environmental reviews and encouraging housing developments in strategically planned areas such as downtowns and village centers while safeguarding vital natural resources and working landscapes. In February, NVDA conducted a training session focused solely on Act 181. You can find the session’s recording, slide deck, and a list of Frequently Asked Questions on the NVDA website under the “Land Use” section here. We will continue offering additional training sessions moving forward, and the page will be updated as new information becomes available. For further inquiries, please reach out to Alison Low at [email protected].

Vermont Climate Action Plan – Public Input Session in Hardwick – April 14th, 6-8 PM

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to influence the update to Vermont’s Climate Action Plan! Engage with a variety of activities throughout the state to express your climate priorities. You can attend virtual or free in-person events that include food! Climate Councilors will take your input into consideration while they revise the Plan, which is due on July 1st. Please register for the Hardwick event to ensure adequate food arrangements. Visit the website climatechange.vermont.gov/cap2025 for all event dates and to review draft priority actions. If you have questions, contact [email protected] or call (802) 404-2729.

VT Capital Planning Forum – April 10th, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, Alumni Hall, Barre

This in-person event caters to governmental units of every size, along with associated professionals eager to explore best practices in capital planning. We encourage you to Register Here as registration will close on April 3rd!

Kingdom Maple Festival – Saturday, April 19th

Join us for this family-friendly celebration taking place in downtown St. Johnsbury, where we honor the town’s cherished maple heritage. Enjoy a vibrant street fair featuring food vendors, live music, a farmers market, and numerous maple-themed activities and crafts! Don’t forget to check out the vendor registration form.

Legislative Breakfast: Monday, April 28th @ 8:00 AM

The 2025 Legislative Breakfasts, organized by the NEK Chamber of Commerce, take place each month at the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum situated on Main Street. The region’s legislators participate every month to engage with their constituents and answer pressing questions. Everyone is welcome to attend!

VT Municipal Equipment Show & Field Day: May 7th, 8:30 AM-2:00 PM

Location: Barre Municipal Auditorium. This event is presented by the New England chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) at newengland.apwa.org. Stay tuned for forthcoming registration information.

State Awards for municipal employees will be presented during the show, including accolades for Public Works Leader of the Year, Outstanding Public Works Department, Public Official of the Year, Public Works Supervisor of the Year, and the First Responder Award. For more details about award nominations, reach out to Lisa Schaeffler at [email protected] or call (802) 355-1142.

Save the Date! RBES Training for Municipal Staff: May 15th, 11:00 AM-12:00 Noon

The Residential Building Energy Standard (RBES), also known as the Building Energy Code, establishes minimum criteria for energy-efficient construction applicable to all new residential buildings, additions, renovations, alterations, and repairs. This informative session will delve into RBES extensively and equip municipal staff with knowledge and tools to assist builders while ensuring RBES certificates are duly recorded in local land records. Register.

Firefighter Appreciation Day – A New Summer Event!

Mark your calendars for Firefighter Appreciation Day, scheduled for July 19th at Canaan Recreation Park from 3:00-8:00 PM. This complimentary event will feature resources and food vendors, providing a platform for community organizations, clubs, and local board members to connect with the public. More details about vendor registration can be found here.

Business Announcements

Wage & Hour Employer Seminar: April 2nd, 11:00 AM-2:00 PM at Lyndon Institute

This seminar, hosted by the VT Department of Tourism and the U.S. Department of Labor, offers NEK businesses of all sizes valuable insights into labor regulations. Register.

VT Manufacturing Day at the State House: April 2nd

Participate in this complimentary event geared towards manufacturing businesses and industry leaders keen to engage with legislators, showcasing the significant contributions that this sector adds to the Vermont economy. Register here. The program kicks off at 9:00 AM and will feature networking opportunities, a joint hearing, a listening session, and a press conference.

Vermont Tariff Resources & Task Force

The Agency of Commerce and Community Development is dedicated to gathering essential resources that help Vermont businesses adapt and respond to ever-evolving tariff-related challenges at the federal level. For a comprehensive overview of the available resources, check out the Vermont Tariff Resource Page.

TRACK Inc. Expands in Newport

Celebrating a ribbon-cutting ceremony in February at the former Bogner factory, which had been vacant for over five years, TRACK Inc. has made a notable transition from Newport Center to a 43,000 square foot building on 85 acres of land. This expansion not only increases production capacity but also promises to create new jobs at TRACK Inc. The NVDA provided crucial support during this expansion, and Executive Director Dave Snedeker was present at the grand opening alongside company representatives and state officials.

NEK Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting: April 10th, 11:00 AM-1:30 PM at VT State University, Lyndon Campus

Theme: Innovation: Tradition Meets Transformation. This meeting serves as a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the Northeast Kingdom Chamber and its aspirations for the future. Guest speaker for the event will be Kyle Clark, President and CEO of BETA Technologies, who is also a potential buyer of the Caledonia County Airport. For complete details, visit www.nekchamber.com.

Job & Resource Fair: April 25th, 11:00 AM-2:00 PM at Community College of VT, Newport

The NEK Workforce Partners will proudly sponsor a FREE Job and Resource Fair tailored for job seekers and local employers, happening at the Community College of VT, located at 100 Main Street, Newport. Employers are encouraged to register. Should you have any questions, please call (802) 334-6545.

NEK Workforce Spring Job Fest: May 9th, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM at Fenton Chester Ice Arena, Lyndon Center

The Vermont Department of Labor, in partnership with Lyndon Institute and NEK Workforce Partners, will host a FREE event designed to connect local employers with job seekers in the area. Employer registration. For any inquiries, contact (802) 748-3177.

Do North Pitch Competition Returns this Fall!

The Northeast Kingdom’s premier pitch competition is back by popular demand! Competitors will vie against each other for a chance to win a cash prize. Save the date: October 23rd. Are you interested in contributing to the participants’ preparation by acting as an advisor or industry expert? Do North is seeking volunteers to assist businesses as they develop their pitches. For further details, email [email protected].

Orleans County NRCD is Hiring

The Orleans County Natural Resources Conservation District is on the lookout for a Community Engagement Program Specialist to bolster internal and external communications while delivering outreach, engagement, and educational opportunities. Applications submitted before March 31st will receive priority consideration; however, later applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Flood Recovery Assistance & Resources

Career Training & Continuing Education

St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Education – Contact: [email protected] or Sandra Mings Lamar [email protected]

Vermont State University Division of Workforce, Community & Economic Development – Explore the diverse range of online career training courses Here.

North Country Career Center, Newport – Visit https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/home or contact Chris Damato at (802) 334-5469 x3305 [email protected].

Lyndon Institute Career & Technical Education Center – Visit https://www.lyndoninstitute.org/academics/career-technical-education for more information. Contact: [email protected] or Michelle Parson, Work-based Learning Coordinator at [email protected].

Canaan School CTE Program – Reach out to Chuck Patterson, Coordinator of Curriculum, at [email protected] or call (802) 266-8910.

Sterling College School of the New American Farmstead – For inquiries, contact [email protected].

Funding Opportunities for Businesses & Communities

(*Note: Some federal funding opportunities may currently be paused.)

• Manufactured Home Improvement & Repair (MHIR) Program: The Department of Housing & Community Development is reopening its application portal, offering funding for park improvements, manufactured home repairs, and foundation installation in registered Vermont mobile home parks. Learn more about eligibility, deadlines, and program details on the homepage Here. Open for applications until May 15th.
• Community Heart & Soul: The Seed Grant Program is tailored for small cities and towns with populations between 2,500-30,000. Winners of successful applications will receive $10,000 grants to match funding from a participating municipality or partnering organization. Apply Here. Awards are made on a rolling basis.

Funding for Vermont Farm, Food & Forestry Sectors

• Agriculture Grant Now Open: The USDA Value-Added Producer Grant is accepting applications until April 17th. The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets maintains a comprehensive list of grants, loans, and financial assistance tailored to specific agricultural needs accessed Here. View the VAAFM Grants Calendar Here.
• Farm to Plate: This statewide food system plan aims to enhance economic development, job opportunities in the farm and food sector, better soil and water resilience in light of climate change, and improve access to healthy local food for all Vermonters. Sign up for the newsletter Here.

Funding for the Arts

• The Vermont Arts Council: Creation Grants are designed to support artists or artist groups in creating new work. Grant funds can be used for compensating artists’ time, purchasing materials, or renting equipment and spaces for the creative process. The application deadline is April 8th. The Cultural Facilities Grants offer up to $30,000 to nonprofit organizations and municipalities to enhance, create, or extend the capabilities of buildings dedicated to cultural activities for the public. This application requires two estimates, and the deadline is May 15th. For more information regarding the VT Arts Council, subscribe to the ArtMail newsletter.
• Vermont Creative Network: A wide-ranging collective of organizations, businesses, and individuals are committed to advancing Vermont’s creative sector through research, advocacy, and networking. Each month, the Network provides an update featuring upcoming opportunities within the creative sector, highlighting funding, training, and professional development resources. Learn more at www.vermontcreativenetwork.org.

Loan Programs

• Vermont State Infrastructure Bank (SIB): This program, operated by the VT Economic Development Authority alongside the VT Agency of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, is geared towards aiding the construction or refurbishment of highways, roads, bridges, and certain rail transit-related facilities. In specific cases, financing is also available for electric vehicle charging and natural gas refueling stations available for public use. Discover more here.
• NEK Prosperity Fund: A collaborative initiative involving NEK Prosper, NEK Community Action (NEKCA), and Community Capital of VT, this Fund provides loan recipients with business support services from NEKCA’s financial and business counselors. Learn more.
• USDA RD Home Repair Loan Program: Federal regulations have streamlined the process for low-income rural residents aiming to rehabilitate and modernize their homes through the USDA 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants. This program provides funding to eradicate health and safety hazards in single-family housing.
• Vermont Community Loan Fund: An alternative lender focused on community, offering loans and support to local businesses, organizations, early care and learning providers, and developers of affordable housing who may not qualify for traditional financing. More information can be found here.
• Northeast Kingdom Special Loan Program: The VT Economic Development Authority (VEDA) offers low-interest loans under its Small Business Program for expanding qualified businesses in Essex, Caledonia, and Orleans Counties. The NEK Program extends loans up to $150,000 for fixed asset acquisition or working capital. Get in touch with Sandy Croft at (802) 828-5472 or [email protected].
• NVDA Revolving Loan Program: Available for businesses in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans Counties, this program offers limited loan funds for purchasing real property, equipment, working capital, and feasibility studies. For more details, contact Tina Gonyaw at [email protected] or call (802) 748-1220, and visit www.nvda.net.
• NVDA EPA Revolving Loan Fund: Accessible for businesses and municipalities undertaking brownfield cleanup projects. Contact [email protected].
• Efficiency Vermont Energy Loan: This program presents two affordable loan options aimed at assisting residents and businesses in pursuing energy efficiency projects that yield cost savings. These include the Residential Energy Loan and the Business Energy Loan.

Incentive Programs for Vermont Businesses

• VT Employment Growth Incentive Program (VEGI): Vermont provides economic incentives aimed at recruitment, growth, and expansion for businesses. Qualified businesses meeting performance requirements can benefit from financial incentives through an application process with the VT Economic Progress Council. For further details, visit here or contact Jessica Hartleben at [email protected].
• VT Training Program (VTP): This program can subsidize the training costs for new and existing employees, covering up to 50% of their wages during the training for pre-employment, new hire, or incumbent employee training. Check employee eligibility through the VTP.
• State Trade Expansion Program (STEP): The Vermont International Trade Division administers the STEP, a grant program facilitating small businesses competing globally through offsetting costs associated with export-related activities such as foreign trade missions, trade shows, training workshops, or globalization of marketing campaigns. 2024 STEP grants are awarded on a rolling basis. Visit here.
• Downtown & Village Center Tax Credit Program: This tax credit program stimulates private investments by supporting the creation and enhancement of rental housing. Successful projects span from modest renovations in small village centers to extensive multimillion-dollar redevelopments. The program promotes job creation while simultaneously supporting rehabilitation efforts, compliance with codes, facade improvements, and flood mitigation projects. To learn more about state and federal tax credits, contact Annie McLean at [email protected].

Business Resources

• VT Manufacturing Extension Center: Check out the VMEC website for current postings regarding professional development opportunities, coaching, and hands-on training for manufacturers and their employees at all levels. Visit here.
• Vermont APEX Accelerator (formerly VT PTAC): The APEX Accelerator provides free one-on-one counseling services, technical assistance, and market research to help businesses navigate government contracting requirements. For a list of upcoming workshops and sign-up links, visit their website. For queries, contact Brenda Plastridge at [email protected].
• VHCB Farm & Forest Viability Program: This program seeks to bolster the economic viability of Vermont farms and forestry enterprises by offering business coaching services to eligible farmers, agriculturally-related businesses, forest product creators, and forest landowners. Learn more.
• VT Department of Labor: Explore job openings and training opportunities available by region and industry at labor.vermont.gov/jobs. The Department provides free recruitment and training services to support employers in attracting and retaining a high-quality workforce.
• VT Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC): Experienced business advisors are available for free consultations via email, phone, or video conferencing. If you require assistance with financial statement development or funding application forms for recovery relief, contact advisors Heidi Krantz at [email protected], Heather Gonyaw at [email protected], or Rick Daniell at [email protected].
• Micro Business Development Program (MBDP): Businesses in need of financial guidance, marketing plans, or accessing financing for low-to-moderate-income entrepreneurs throughout Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties can reach Dustin Smith at [email protected] or call (802) 323-9010 for free coaching. Visit here for more details.
• NEK Collaborative (NEKC): The mission of the Collaborative is to elevate the quality of life for all NEK residents via coordinated economic and community-supported development. Check out their initiatives at www.nekcollaborative.org.

Looking for Commercial Space?

If you’re seeking commercial property, connect with us at [email protected] or call (802) 748-8303. For more information on available commercial building lots for sale, consult the St. Johnsbury-Lyndon Industrial Park and Orleans Industrial Park, both equipped with water and sewer availability.

Northeastern Vermont Development Association – Visit: www.nvda.net

St. Johnsbury Office:

Phone: 802.748-5181 | Fax: 802.748-1223

The NVDA serves as the regional planning and development organization catering to the needs of Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans Counties, with a commitment to being an equal-opportunity lender, provider, and employer.

This monthly newsletter is made possible in part by a grant from the State of Vermont through the Agency of Commerce & Community Development.

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