In This Issue

Learn about Vermont's manufacturing tax exemption, an opportunity for qualifying businesses to apply for media and creative production services, and more in our May Commerce Connection. We also spotlight our member Spirit of Ethan Allen.

May 2021
Senator Leahy Announces Earmarks at Chamber Event 

Senator Patrick Leahy joined the Vermont Chamber last week to discuss supporting the economic future of Vermont. He answered attendees' questions, announced a plan to reintroduce earmarks to the Senate, and discussed immigration and child care as it relates to workforce.
2 Questions in 2 Minutes

Take two minutes to learn about the manufacturing tax exemption and how an expansion would help Vermont's manufacturers.
Act 250 & the Stifling of Economic Opportunity

Our Government Affairs Director Charles Martin wrote an op-ed on how modernizing Act 250 would help solve demographic, economic, and infrastructure challenges, increase economic development around the state, and incentivize the next generation and young families to remain local and thrive in Vermont.
Improving the Health of Vermont's Housing

The Vermont Futures Project released a white paper on Vermont's housing crisis with recommendations to improve the health of housing. More housing was a need in Vermont five years ago, and as we work to recover from the pandemic-caused economic downturn and see an influx of new residents, the health of Vermont’s housing market is under more stress than ever.
Manufacturing Summit Registration Open for Suppliers

The Vermont Chamber invites you to our 100% virtual and reimagined Annual Manufacturing Summit with a theme of “The Future of Adaptive Sourcing” on Thursday, Sept. 9. This will be a unique opportunity to meet with over 20 U.S. and Canadian OEMs and prime contractors, as well as suppliers, partners, and students for new contacts, business opportunities, contracts, and workforce to rebuild and strengthen your supply chains. Registration is open to companies that meet the supplier criteria.
#ComcastRISE Help for Businesses

Comcast RISE launched in October to help small businesses hit hard by COVID-19. Qualifying businesses can apply to receive consulting, media and creative production services from Effectv, the advertising sales division of Comcast Cable, or technology upgrades from Comcast Business. Comcast RISE is now accepting applications from BIPOC-owned, small businesses.
Vermont's Beta Technologies Strikes Deal with UPS

Beta Technologies reached a deal to sell electric planes to one of America’s shipping giants - UPS. “It’s a huge deal for the entire industry because it’s a big step into sustainable aviation by a major player in the logistics world, but obviously a huge deal for Beta here in Burlington,” said Kyle Clark, founder and CEO of Beta Technologies.
Restaurant Revitalization Fund Application Now Open

The Restaurant Revitalization Fund application is now open. The Vermont Chamber is urging qualifying businesses to apply early, as it is anticipated that funds will be exhausted quickly.
Member Spotlight

This month's Member Spotlight features Spirit of Ethan Allen. Welcome aboard Lake Champlain’s only luxury cruise ship, accommodating up to 363 passengers on 3 separate, climate-controlled decks. Enjoy Scenic, Lunch, Brunch, Nightly Dinner, and Sunset cruises 7 days a week. Themed cruises include Sounds of Summer, Spirit Comedy Quest Dinner Show, Lobstah on the Lake, Captain’s Dinner Dance, and Champagne on Champlain Brunch. They also offer services in private functions, corporate events, school outings, wedding and rehearsal ceremonies, and themed cruise parties. Book your 2021 cruise today. 
Want great exposure for your business? Sponsoring the statewide Vermont Chamber newsletter is an affordable and effective way to reach your target customers. Email [email protected] for pricing and information.