COMMERCE CONNECTION
November 2022
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In this issue, learn about current state of the manufacturing industry, how rising costs are contributing to economic uncertainty, how Vermont can leverage its strengths to address our greatest economic challenges, and more. We also feature our sponsor, MVP Health Care.
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Inform Our 2023 Policy Agenda |
The countdown to the 2023 legislative session has begun, and the Vermont Chamber's advocacy team is preparing by meeting with policy leaders, partner organizations, and businesses. As we work to formulate our 2023 policy agenda, we welcome your input. Please take a moment to review this three-question survey and tell us your story.
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Remember to vote on, or before, November 8th. You can check your voter registration, find your polling place, request an absentee ballot, see sample ballots, and more, online. A complete list of general election candidates is available on our website.
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Tax Revenues Strong, But Can We Afford More Spending? |
With economic uncertainty on the horizon due to inflation, decreased consumer spending, and stock market chaos, higher levels of government spending will set a course for higher taxes on individuals and businesses at a time when everything else is on the rise.
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The State of Manufacturing in October |
As Manufacturing Month wraps up and we head into Q4, it's essential to showcase Vermont’s $3 billion manufacturing industry as an important economic driver that employs 10% of Vermont’s workforce. Here's an update on the current state of the manufacturing industry.
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Accumulating Costs Add to Economic Uncertainty |
As businesses face an avalanche of mounting costs, policymakers must consider the accumulation of these costs on small businesses before raising taxes, passing new fees, or mandating costly and time-consuming compliance with new programs.
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Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors |
The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.
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We're Hiring: Business Development Manager |
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is looking for a Business Development Manager with a passion for building, sustaining, and growing fundraising relationships for the state’s largest business advocacy organization.
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Vermont Ranks #31 on Top States for Business Study |
Vermont climbed up eleven spots this year, which may come as a surprise given that the state was ranked dead last in the workforce category. However, a holistic review of the data shows that other factors make Vermont a favorable state for business. We must leverage these strengths to address our greatest economic challenges. Interest in Vermont remains high, and Vermont can capitalize on this opportunity by attracting more people and businesses to the state.
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Inflation Remains Near a 40-Year High |
According to the latest Consumer Price Index Summary, inflation rose in September by 0.4% from August and is up 8.2% on an annual basis. Families and small businesses nationwide are still paying more on monthly energy bills, inflated housing prices and even food.
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Apply for Business Relief |
VEDA Short-Term Forgivable Loan Program: This program is open and will provide financial assistance to businesses that continue to experience current and ongoing harm due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While businesses in the travel and tourism, restaurants, lodging, childcare, and agriculture sectors and BIPOC-owned businesses were prioritized, the application is open to all business sectors as of November 1.
COVID Paid Leave Grant Program: The application window opening for this program has been delayed. The delayed opening date will not change the total amount of time that the application window will be open. Employers must demonstrate the dates each employee was out due to COVID, the total and hourly sick leave wages paid to each employee out due to COVID, and provide documentation to support that the leave was due to eligible COVID-related reasons.
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Vermont Chamber In Action |
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A trusted partner. A better experience. MVP Health Care® has been providing affordable, high-quality health insurance for Vermont businesses for 20+ years—for healthier employees and a better bottom line. See why so many people are switching to MVP.
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Want great exposure for your business? By sponsoring a Vermont Chamber newsletter, you can reach a target audience of over 1,800 people. Email Megan Bullard for more information on our affordable pricing opportunities.
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