In This Issue

Learn how to navigate voting in Vermont this election, socially distant ways to enjoy our fall season, and more in October's Commerce Connection.
We also spotlight our member Rabbit Hill Inn.

October 2020
Seal, Sign, and Send!

The Vermont Secretary of State’s office sent ballots out by mail to registered voters. Voters are encouraged to return ballots by mail to their local town clerk several weeks before the November 3 general election.

Vermont Chamber Cohosts Candidate Forums

The Vermont Chamber partnered with Let's Grow Kids and the Vermont Housing Finance Agency to cohost nonpartisan governor and lieutenant governor candidate forums.

Socially Distant Ways to Enjoy Vermont This Fall

Our Vice President of Tourism Amy Spear shares socially distant ways to enjoy Vermont's fall season this year.

Successful Opposition to U.S. Tariff on Canadian Aluminum

Our Vice President of Business Development Chris Carrigan was interviewed by the Rutland Herald and welcomed the U.S. decision to remove a 10 percent tariff on Canadian aluminum. In partnership with our Canadian partners, and, with the support of the governors of Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire, the Vermont Chamber helped lead opposition to this tariff, which would have raised costs, lowered sales revenues, and placed Vermont manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage in the aerospace, industrial, and medical device industries.

Vermont Futures Project Survey and Tax Recommendations

A recent survey from our partners at The Vermont Futures Project, and the University of Vermont, shows that of respondents who moved to Vermont to “shelter in place” during the pandemic – 1/3 are likely or very likely to stay. Vermont Futures Project Executive Director Lori Smith also recently presented key tax recommendations to the Vermont Tax Structure Commission.

Welcome New Board Members

Please join us in welcoming our new Board Members Lynn Green of Four Chimneys Inn in Bennington, Willie Docto of Moose Meadow Lodge in Waterbury, and Bill Nupp of Stratton Mountain Resort in Stratton. Our Board of Directors consists of 25 leaders throughout the state representing varied industries and geographic sectors to reflect our diverse membership.

Thank You for Supporting Us

The most important thing we can ask is that you continue supporting the Vermont Chamber of Commerce as we support you and your fellow businesses across Vermont. We are in this together.

Virtual Policy Series Kickoff

Vermont Chamber members are invited to get up to speed on important federal issues with Congressman Peter Welch during the first event in our Virtual Policy Series. This kickoff event on October 19, an opportunity for personal access to a key Vermont leader, is available at no cost for members of chambers of commerce across the state.

Help for Restaurants and Lodges

The Vermont Chamber has partnered with On the Fly, a grassroots collection of business experts in the hospitality field, to provide technical assistance to restaurants and lodging establishments. This assistance will pair On the Fly experts with owners to address challenges, goals, and concerns due to the pandemic, and help develop a plan to address them.

Vermont Businesses Helping Communities 

We are adding regularly to our page, How Vermont Businesses Are Helping Our Communities.

Recent additions include Vermont Chamber member Vermont Housing Finance Agency extending the application period for their Vermont COVID Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program, ECHO Leahy Center launching two programs to support Vermont families: ECHO Virtual STEM Academy and ECHO Care and Enrichment, and more.

2021 Best Places to Work

Are you one of the best places to work in Vermont? These awards, co-presented by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, honor exceptional workplaces across the state.

Member Spotlight

This month's Member Spotlight shines on the Rabbit Hill Inn in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

This outstanding adult-only getaway destination was recently named #1 Best Hotel in the Northeast, #3 in the USA, and #39 in the World by Travel+Leisure. Start planning your romantic staycation now. Enjoy the beautiful rural setting, luxurious accommodations, and Four Diamond Award-winning cuisine in a comfortable, casual setting. Experience unparalleled hospitality and a near-endless variety of area activities and attractions. Spacious common areas and the cozy Snooty Fox Pub will lure you "back home" after your fun-filled days. Discover for yourself why the luxurious Rabbit Hill Inn is a "deliciously romantic Vermont experience!"
Learn about HORST Engineering and Pivot Marketing. Visit our membership page for benefits and contacts.
Save The Date



The Virtual Policy Series event with Congressman Welch is for members of chambers of commerce across the state. To learn about Vermont Chamber membership, please email Erica Canada.
This edition of the Vermont Chamber's monthly newsletter is sponsored by:


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