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NVDA News
NVDA 2026 Regional Plan Update - Register for the Second Public Hearing
Join Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA) to learn about the NVDA 2026 Regional Plan. This hearing is scheduled for September 24, 2026 at 4:00 pm and will be a hybrid meeting: online and in-person at the Gateway Center (84 Fyfe Dr, 1st floor, Newport, VT). The hearing is open to the public. Please register online. Questions? Contact David Snedeker.
DED Visits Canaan to Support Economic Development and Revitalization
Lyle Jepson, DED Commissioner, Tim Tierney, Director of International Trade and Business Recruitment, and Kristie Farnham, Director of Business Support, traveled to Canaan on July 22, where they joined Dave Snedeker, NVDA Executive Director, and local officials and community leaders to discuss economic development opportunities in the region. Canaan’s newly formed Economic Development Advisory Committee is working to advance projects to revitalize the area and address reduced activity at the local manufacturing plant. The group toured several potential development sites, including a vacant 100,000-square-foot former furniture finishing facility, as well as sites being considered for future housing development.
Community Events & Announcements
Update on Act 152. An act relating to regional planning and Act 250 Tier jurisdiction.
Act 152 (S.325) was signed by Governor Scott on June 16. This legislation repeals the Tier 2 "Road Rule" and Tier 3 rulemaking, and also extends the expiration date for municipal plans set to expire in 2026. So, if your municipal plan is expiring or has expired sometime in 2026, you now have until the end of December 2027 to catch up! The Agency of Commerce and Community Development typically publishes a legislative summary of acts that affect planning and zoning. NVDA will keep you posted when it becomes available. Please note that if the NVDA Regional Plan is not adopted by December 31, 2026 all legacy village and downtown designations will expire.
Introducing Groton's NEW Connectivity HUB!
The Groton Connectivity HUB, located at 1334 Scott Hwy in Groton VT, was created to give residents a welcoming place to access reliable internet, state-of-the-art technology, and hands-on digital support. The HUB grew out of NEK Broadband’s $2.85M USDA Community Connect Grant, awarded to bring high‑speed fiber internet to unserved and underserved address in Groton — a project made possible by strong community support and local volunteers who helped shape the vision for a shared digital‑access space. Today, the HUB offers free WiFi, video conferencing with a 65" interactive display and camera, public computers, flexible workstations, printing and scanning, and a soundproof privacy pod for telehealth or confidential calls. It’s a friendly walk‑in space where anyone can connect, meet, learn, or get support using digital tools. No appointment is needed to drop in, and the space can also be reserved at no cost The Connectivity HUB is here to make technology more accessible and easier to navigate, helping every resident take full advantage of Groton’s new fiber network. Learn more Here.
VTSU 2026 Career Fairs - Sept & Oct
Vermont State University is excited to invite you to showcase your business or organization at one (or more) of the fall fairs hosted at our VTSU campus locations: Sept 1-Johnson, Sept 2-Randolph, Sept 3-Castleton, Oct 28-Randolph Career Fair. These events help employers and agencies promote seasonal, part-time, and full-time jobs, internships, and career opportunities, as well as a wide array of student on and off-campus engagement activities. Questions? Contact Careers@VermontState.edu.
Ripple Effects 2026: Understanding Our Watershed - Sept 9, 16 & 23
Water connects everything, from hillsides and wetlands to streams and rivers. Understanding those connections helps us protect natural resources, reduce flood risks, and build stronger communities. These FREE public programs explore how our watershed works and why it matters. Contact Kristen Leahy, Hardwick Resilience & Adaptation Coordinator at zoning.administrator@hardwickvt.gov / 802-472-1686. All events take place from 6:00–7:30 pm at the Parker Ladd Community Room, Jeudevine Memorial Library, in Hardwick.
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Sept 9 – When Hillsides Move: Landslides and the Start of the Watershed Story - Emma Myrick, Vermont Geological Survey
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Sept 16 – Holding Water: Wetlands and Natural Flood Storage - Lauren Sopher, Wetland Scientist
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Sept 23 – Where the River Carries It: Sediment, Gravel, and the Dredging Question - Staci Pomeroy, River Scientist, and Evan Fitzgerald, River Engineer
NEK Broadband Network Technician Training - Sept 9-12, 16-19, 23-25
Ready to launch a career in broadband and telecommunications? The Broadband Network Technician Pre-Apprentice Training Program offers free, hands-on training to help participants build the skills needed for entry-level careers in a growing industry. Participants who complete the course will also receive a $500 stipend. Space is limited, so don’t wait to register!
Fall Planning & Zoning Forum - Sept 16
VCLT's in-person Fall 2026 Planning and Zoning Forum will focus on key land use initiatives shaping Vermont’s future in conservation, community planning, and local decision-making. Participants will gain insight into Vermont’s statewide Conservation Plan, municipal experiences implementing Act 181, and the policy priorities expected to shape the 2027 Legislative Session, providing valuable perspectives to help communities navigate a changing land use landscape. This forum takes place Sept 16, 8:30am – 12pm in Montpelier at the the Capitol Plaza. Register for $20 (includes breakfast!) Here.
2026 AOT Research and Innovation Symposium - Sept 16
Join the Agency of Transportation (AOT) in Barre, VT for the 10th VT AOT Research and Innovation Symposium. Topics for this year cover pavement, concrete, structures, water, safety, AI, planning, and EVs. Projects and materials from past Symposiums are available now. Learn more Here.
Vermont DEC Updates the Lamoille River Tactical Basin Plan - Learn More Sept 22
The Agency of Natural Resources is working with partners to update plans to restore and improve rivers, ponds, and wetlands in the Lamoille watershed, which includes Craftsbury, Greensboro, Hardwick, Walden, Stannard, and Wheelock. Tactical Basin Plans include strategies for directing financial and technical resources to help make informed, impactful decisions about land and water management. Join a presentation on the draft plan by Karen Bates (VT DEC) on Sept 22 at 6:30 pm during the Lamoille County Planning Commission Board meeting. Online option and agenda available Here.
Hydrology & Hydraulics (H&H) Lunch Talk - Sept 23 (online)
Please join the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation's Watershed Planning Program for a brownbag lunch presentation and talk focused on general H&H topics and questions that clean water practitioners may typically encounter. This is a talk by engineers for clean water practitioners, to help orient you to H&H topics and concepts so you can be better prepared to engage with H&H data, reports, or consultants on your project. Join Sept 23, 12pm to 1pm, online via TEAMS.
Efficiency Vermont 2026 Best Practices Exchange Event - Sept 23 & 24
EVT is pleased to announce that the 2026 Best Practices Exchange (BPX) will once again be held in-person on September 23 & 24, 2026 at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel in Killington, Vermont. At BPX, C&I facility managers, decision makers, the most experienced mechanical contractors and relevant product manufacturers join Efficiency Vermont’s Account Management and Energy Consultant teams to share industry Best Practices. Registration is free for attendees from non-sponsoring organizations, but advance RSVP is required. Learn more Here.
Orleans County NRCD turns 80 years old! Office Open House - Sept 26
OCNRCD was established in 1946 as a non-regulatory, community-led organization managed by local landowners. To celebrate 80 years of work and the next chapter, they're hosting an Office Open House on Saturday, Sept 26 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, right in the middle of the Newport Fall Festival. Come stop by their new office to meet the board and staff and enjoy the annual classic car show, farmers market, scare crow contest, and Chilifest contest. Learn more Here.
MFG Day - Friday, Oct 2 and all month long!
Each year, manufacturers and their partners across the country open their doors to students, educators, parents and community members to show what modern manufacturing really looks like. Plant tours, hands-on activities, career conversations, classroom visits and community events are changing the way a new generation sees the manufacturing industry. Learn more Here.
Vermont Community Leadership Summit - Oct 6
Join hundreds of community builders from across the state for VCRD's annual Leadership Summit -- a full day of connection, learning, and inspiration for anyone working to strengthen their town. This year's Summit is grounded in the newly updated Vermont Community Leadership in Action Guide. All people who care about their town and the future of our state are encouraged to attend. Register at vtrural.org/summit.
The 83rd Vermont Conference on Parks, Trails, and Recreation - Oct 21-22
The Vermont Recreation and Parks Association (VRPA) and the Vermont Trails and Greenways Council (VTGC), with support from American Trails, are hosting the 83rd Vermont Conference on Parks, Trails, and Recreation at Jay Peak Resort. Connect, get inspired, and be part of the movement driving recreation forward. Early-bird pricing ends Aug 21. VTGC-member discounts and scholarships are available. Learn more Here.
NEK Together Registration Now Open - Nov 4
Register now for the Kingdom’s annual convening in Island Pond. Early bird pricing is only $35 through Aug 31. Learn more and register Here. Have a session proposal for the event? The NEK Together Advisory Committee invites proposals for engaging breakout sessions that showcase innovative ideas, successful partnerships, practical tools, and collaborative approaches to address the NEK's opportunities and challenges. Submit your proposal by Sept 4 Here.
Funding Opportunities
Village Trust Initiative to Open Third Round of Applications - Sept 8 Deadline
A new round of funding and support will soon be available to help a third cohort of small Vermont towns breathe new life into the historic buildings and shared spaces at the heart of their communities.
The Village Trust Initiative (VTI) — a partnership of Preservation Trust of Vermont, Vermont Council on Rural Development and Vermont Community Foundation — is a multi-year program that is currently supporting 12 towns across Vermont in creating or bolstering a community focused local non-profit organization to advance a transformational redevelopment project in their village. Participating communities receive financial and technical support, as well as hands-on technical assistance to ensure projects are succesful. Learn more Here and apply by September 8, 5pm.
2027 Municipal Park and Ride Grant Program - Apply by Sept 22
The Park-and-Ride program helps to provide safe and convenient parking facilities to encourage the consolidation of travelers and the reduction of single occupancy vehicles on the roads. All grant application and information can be found online: https://vtrans.vermont.gov/highway/parkandrides.
NRCS in VT - Accepting Applications for Conservation Programs - Apply by Sept 25
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) accepts applications year-round, but interested agricultural producers in Vermont should apply by September 25, 2026, to be considered for fiscal year 2027 funding. Interested in conserving natural resources and keeping operations productive, profitable and sustainable for future generations? Contact the local NRCS office and learn more Here.
Vermont Family Farmer of the Month Award - Apply by Sept 28
The Vermont Family Farmer of the Month Fund recognizes farmers whose businesses are contributing to a resilient Vermont agricultural landscape and demonstrate environmental stewardship through sustainable practices. Each month, the fund awards $12,000 to a Vermont farmer for a project that will improve the viability of their farm. The deadline to apply to be considered for the November, December, January, and February awards is September 28. Apply Here.
VOREC Community Grant Program - Launches this Oct!
The VOREC Community Grant Program (VCGP) is intended to fund community projects that support and grow local economies by leveraging outdoor recreation. Total funds available: $275,000! The next grant round will launch by Oct 2026. Full details will be available after launch! Municipalities and non-profit organizations are eligible applicants. Learn more Here.
FY 2027 Municipal Planning Grant - Apply by Nov 2
The Vermont Municipal Planning Program provides funds for municipal plans and plan implementation projects, such as development regulation updates, feasibility or capacity studies, master plans or special area plans, capital plans and budgets, and other projects that further a project or policy in the municipal plan. Projects that promote Vermont’s historic pattern of compact settlements surrounded by working farms, forest, and open space are given priority. Up to $50,000 is available for single municipality applications (or $65,000 for consortium applications with a 10% match required. For more information see the 2027 Grant Guide.
Funding Opportunities for Wastewater Systems
Maintaining and improving wastewater systems is essential for protecting public health, supporting economic growth, and keeping Vermont's rivers, lakes, and groundwater clean. Whether your community is planning a new wastewater system or infrastructure upgrades, addressing regulatory requirements, expanding service capacity, or replacing aging equipment, funding may be available to help. Need one-on-one help advancing your local project or to narrow funding opportunities? Contact VLCT's Project & Funding Specialist by emailing her at bwaninger@vlct.org. Learn more Here.
Business Announcements
Vermont Tariff Resources & Task Force Website
The Agency of Commerce & Community Development has compiled key resources to help Vermont businesses respond to evolving tariff-related challenges on the federal level, evaluate potential impact, and focus on solutions. Vermont Tariff Resource Page.
Human Resources Seminar - Sept 9 (Capitol Plaza Hotel, Montpelier)
Associated Industries of Vermont will host a special seminar focusing on key human resource developments and issues facing Vermont employers. The seminar will cover issues impacting private and public sector employers and the professionals who serve them, and will feature presentations, commentary, and audience Q&A with expert government and private sector presenters. Both members and non-members are welcome to register to attend. Registration is required by September 4 and costs $75 for AIV members and $100 for non-members. Registration will open at 8:30 am and the seminar will conclude at 2:30 pm, lunch is provided. Questions? Email info@aivt.org.
Working Lands Grant Applications opening soon - get ready!
The Service Provider & Producer Association Grant will be open from Sept 17 - Nov 5, 2026. The application for the Business Enhancement Grant will be open from Oct 9 - Dec 10, 2026. Looking to get a head start on project planning for the Business Enhancement Grant? Contact Clare Salerno at clare.salerno@vermont.gov or 802-917-2637 to confirm if your business/organization and project are eligible or to request project planning assistance from a business advisor. Learn more Here.
Now Accepting Applications: KickstartNEK - Hardwick & St. Johnsbury
Do North is now accepting applications for two KickstartNEK 10-week business accelerator cohorts designed to help aspiring and existing entrepreneurs launch, grow, and strengthen their businesses. Questions? Email: team@donorthcoworking.com.
Join the Monthly E-Sync Call - Keep a Handle on All Things Entrepreneurial in the NEK!
This is the monthly virtual convening of organizations directly supporting entrepreneurship and community-driven economic activity throughout the Northeast Kingdom. The next meeting is Monday, Sept 8. Register Here. Check your inbox for your Zoom confirmation with your individual link and updated calendar invite. Questions? Email amclean@nvda.net.
U.S. Small Business Administration - Freedom 250 Supplier Matchmaking Expo - Sept 18
This event features the Million-Dollar Pitch Competition, a powerful, one-day celebration of American entrepreneurship, innovation, and domestic supply chain strength. This event takes place Sept 18, 10am-3pm at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, in Washington, D.C. Register Here.
4th Annual Rumble in the Kingdom Business Pitch Competition - Oct 22
Please save the date and help spread the word about the 4th Annual Rumble in the Kingdom business pitch competition at Catamount Arts on Oct 22! Applications are open now...click Here to apply!
Child Care Business Bootcamp (FREE & online) - Sept 16, 23, & 30
In this 3-session course, learn the basics of starting and running a child care business through the Child Care Business Boot Camp. Improve your business ideas, learn how to manage money, create a budget, and plan simple ways to promote your business. You will also review rules and ideas that help your business last and grow and take part in individual and group activities to practice what you have learned. Connect with a Business Development Specialist (BDS) to help you through opening your program and learn more about available funding and resources. This workshop is for anyone who has ever thought about opening a child care program (home or center-based)! Learn more Here.
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