Emergency Assistance & Information

Major Disaster Declaration Request Approved: Flooding from July 9-11, 2024

Gov. Scott's request for FEMA disaster declaration to assist individuals and communities impacted by flooding from July 9-11, has been approved by the Biden Administration. This provides funding for individuals in Addison, Orleans, Washington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille and Essex counties to apply to FEMA for assistance. Register at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362. The deadline to apply for FEMA's Public Assistance Program for July 9-11 flooding (DR-4810) is Sept 20th.

This declaration also includes funding to help cities and towns receive reimbursement for emergency storm repairs to public infrastructure. Town briefings will be scheduled soon.

Note: This declaration does not include damage to private and public property caused by storms on July 30th. Multiple flooding events have impacted the region this year and each storm requires its own Disaster Declaration request and approval. (Gov. Scott has requested Major Disaster Declaration for July 29-31 flooding. Response is pending. Read the document Here)

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Open in Lyndon

A Disaster Recovery Center is now open 7 days a week from 8:00 am -7:00 pm at the Public Safety Facility, 316 Main Street, Lyndon. Disaster assistance specialists are available to help with FEMA Individual Assistance applications, to upload documents needed for the application, and answer questions in person.

Business & Rental Property Flood Damage Survey

The Department of Economic Development is working to learn more about the damage to rental properties and the business community during recent flooding. If you are a landlord or work for a business or nonprofit that suffered physical damage since mid-July 2024, place take ten minutes to fill out this survey

Report Damage: Vermont211.org

Use the Resident form or Business form. Reporting damage is essential, no matter how large or small. Continue to take pictures/videos and save receipts to track of expenses: loss of business income, inventory (due to spoilage or floodwater damage), equipment damage, and property loss. Reporting is a key piece as the state tracks flood damage that will unlock federal resources to repair and rebuild. Report online or dial 211 (or) 802/ 652-4636.

Starting Over Strong - Free Community Support Group for Flood Survivors

Join Thursday Zoom Meetings @ 5:30 pm - FREE and no registration needed.

Sept 12 & 26 and Oct 10 & 24

https://nkhs-net.zoom.us/j/88297803129?pwd=Wuhd0WNfi2MlySOAjlJzTMylJ6G8JM.1

Meeting ID: 882-9780 3129 Passcode: 229517

Questions? Northeast Kingdom Human Services (802) 424-5368

Links to more Flood Disaster Assistance:

• VT Department of Labor Unemployment Due to Flooding
• VT Legal Aid Flood Related Legal Assistance
• VT ACCD Storm Resource Center
• NVDA Website Flood Recovery & Assistance
• VtSBDC Disaster Recovery Guide for Business
• VT League of Cities and Towns VLCT Flood Recovery & Resources
• FEMA Individuals & Households Program
• USDA Rural Development Disaster Assistance Website
• VT Community Foundation VCF Special & Urgent Needs

Emergency Resources

• Farm & Ag Producers VT Agency of Agriculture Ag Flood Response & Recovery; Farmer Emergency Fund nofavt.org; VT Farm Fund vtfarmfund.org; Farm First https://www.farmfirst.org/ - Post flood Technical Assistance Toolkit for Agriculture
• (CAE) Ctr for an Agricultural Economy Emergency Loan Program
• Forest Businesses VT Dept Forests, Parks & Recreation Flood Recovery Resources
• Cultural Sector VT Arts Council Flood Disaster Resources
• KURRVE - Neighbor-to-neighbor Networks KURRVE

BEGAP Portal is Open!

The Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program (BEGAP) portal is open. The grant program is for businesses, nonprofits, landlords, and farms that suffered physical damage from flooding in 2023 and/or 2024. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are expended. NVDA's partner, Central VT Economic Development Corporation, will be providing assistance with applications. If you need help, fill out the support request form Here. After you register you'll receive follow-up information and an appointment to meet CVEDC staff at two local walk-in clinics hosted by NVDA: Sept 5th @ NVDA office, 36 Eastern Ave, St. Johnsbury; Sept 9th @ Do North Co-working, 930 Broad St, Lyndonville. Clinics will be open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Applicants are encouraged to visit the BEGAP website to learn how the program works and what information is needed for the application process. Questions? Contact amclean@nvda.net

Flood Relief for Individuals - Locally Social Gives, Inc.

The nonprofit based in St. Johnsbury has set up a flood relief fund to provide quick, flexible flood relief (up to $1,500) for NEK residents in need of support. A direct link to the fund is Here If applying online is a barrier, reach out to Cari Carlet - Donations Welcome! caricarlet@yahoo.com (or) Brooke Pierce brooke@momentumbusinessvt.com.

VT Main Street Flood Recovery Fund for Businesses - Donations Welcome!

The Fund has been reopened to support Vermont's small independently owned businesses with grants of up to $2,500 for equipment replacement, operating expenses, supplies, clean-up, etc. Grant application The Fund was developed last year in the wake of 2023's flooding event and is actively accepting additional donations for 2024 damage. Learn more Donors may send checks to: Capstone Community Action, 20 Gable Place, Barre VT 05641 (Make a notation on the check that the donation is for Main Street Recovery Fund) Questions? Contact Annie McLean amclean@nvda.net

Flood Relief for Businesses - NCIC Impact Loan Program

NCIC has established a small emergency loan fund for businesses in the NEK impacted by July flooding. Borrowers may apply for up to $3,000. Limited funds will be disbursed on a first come, first served basis. Contact Aimee Quimby aquimby@ncic.org

Let Efficiency Vermont Help: Technical & Financial Assistance

Efficiency Vermont is providing businesses with technical and financial assistance with energy efficient technologies. Rebates offered for damaged water heaters, refrigeration, commercial kitchen equipment, and heating & cooling units. What are your business's electrical and mechanical recovery needs? Learn more:

SBA Loan Programs for Disaster Recovery

The U.S. Small Business Administration is making available two loan programs to businesses that suffered flood damage on July 9-11. Applications may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal Please contact SBA disaster assistance customer service 1-800-659-2955 for more help. SBA Disaster Assistance

Community Announcements

Good News: USDA Awards Major Funding for NEK Projects!

USDA Rural Business Development Grants were awarded to nine projects in the Northeast Kingdom promoting job growth and advance economic development in the region. The funding, totaling nearly $1.3 million, is an investment by the USDA in support of a variety projects that include: $200,000 to establish Caledonia Food Cooperative in St. Johnsbury and provide technical assistance to renovate the 10,000 sq ft facility; $200,000 for the Center for an Agricultural Economy in Hardwick to help farms and food producers access wholesale markets; $90,000 to Catamount Film & Arts Center for master planning to integrate arts, culture and creativity into the St. Johnsbury and Lyndonville town plans; $200,000 to NVDA's Business Technical Assistance Program for services that provide operational support for small businesses; $199,000 to NCIC for business training, marketing and technical assistance in the NEK; $99,657 to VT Farm-to-School to strengthen farm viability and local food systems; $70,014 to St. Johnsbury Works! to provide capacity building activities for small and emerging businesses for Black, Indigenous and other BIPOC-owned small businesses in St. Johnsbury; a $59,987 investment to the NEK Collaborative to plan and develop projects supporting economic growth and community development; and $8,000 to Waterford Ridge Runners to purchase grooming equipment and maintain snowmobile trails in and around Waterford. U.S. Senator Peter Welch, Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, had high praise for the community projects and ongoing efforts to advance economic development in the NEK and across the state!

Irasburg Awarded VTrans Bicycle & Pedestrian Grant

Irasburg will receive $40,000 in federal funds to conduct a Pedestrian Crossing Improvement Scoping Study. The project was among seven successful applications statewide. Under a grant agreement with the Agency of Transportation, the Town of Irasburg will be responsible for 20% of the total project costs. Congratulations Irasburg!

Business Announcements

Manufacturing Day 2024 is Friday, October 4th

Are you ready to showcase the future of modern manufacturing? Don't delay if you plan to host an event anytime during October to inspire the next generation of manufacturers! MFG Day Visit VMEC

Fraud Prevention and Recovery Workshop, Sept. 13th, 12:00 pm

Learn how to recognize scams, report fraud incidents, and protect against online fraud. Take important steps to secure accounts after being impacted by fraud. Zoom link: https://bit.ly/3WSaS5s URL link to more info: Money Coaching - NEKCA Community Action

Free NEK Fall Job Fest, Friday, Sept 27th, 10:00 am-2:00 pm

Fenton Chester Ice Arena, Lyndon Center

Employer Registration Questions? Call 802/ 748-3177 or email rolson@vabir.org Hosted by VT Dept of Labor with workforce partners.

NEKCA Energy Coaching Workshops

How to save energy, save money, and improve the comfort of your home.

Virtual: bit.ly/saveonenergy2024 Contact Erik for more information eschultz@nekcavt.org

Session 1: Sept 5, (12 -1 pm) & Sept 12 (6:30-7:30 pm)

Session 2: Sept 19 (12-1 pm) & Sept 26 (5:30-7:30 pm)

FUN & FREE Thursday series - Attend any or all sessions. Learn more about MBDP Here

Free Health Benefits Compliance Seminar, Sept 11 & 12, Hampton Inn, Colchester

The U.S. Dept of Labor is teaming up with the VT Dept of Financial Regulation to bring practical information and clarification regarding state and federal health benefits laws. Learn more and register before Sept 6th.

Fall Business Mixer in St. Johnsbury - Sept 30th, 4:30-6:30 pm @ Birches Restaurant

All who work in St. Johnsbury are invited to attend - business owners, employees, nonprofit board members, and volunteers are welcome!

Rumble in the Kingdom - Business Pitch Competition, Oct 23rd, 5:30-8:00 pm

The Do North Rumble in the Kingdom Pitch Competition is an opportunity to showcase your business or business idea and win cash prizes. It will take place at Catamount Arts in St. Johnsbury. The competition is open to business owners and entrepreneurs from the NEK, Northern NH, or the Upper Valley. Learn more

Career Training & Adult Education Courses

Vermont State University - Lyndon, Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship

https://vermontstate.edu/about-us/workforce-community-and-economic-development-at-vermont-state/

Vermont Technical College - Vermont State University) 2 campuses: Williston & Randolph https://vermontstate.edu/ Division of Workforce, Community & Economic Development

North Country Career Center, Newport https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/home

Contact Chris Damato (802) 334-5469 x3305 Christian.damato@ncsuvt.org

St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Education

Contact Sandra Mings Lamar (802) 748-7738 sandra.mingslamar@stjacademy.org

Lyndon Institute Career & Technical Education Center https://www.lyndoninstitute.org/academics/career-technical-education

Contact David.Schilling@lyndoninstitute.org or Michelle Parson, Work-based Learning Coordinator, michelle.parson@lyndoninstitute.org.

Canaan School CTE Program

Chuck Patterson, Coordinator of Curriculum, Cpatterson@ensuvt.org or call (802) 266-8910

Sterling College School of the New American Farmstead https://www.ce.sterlingcollege.edu Contact continuingeducation@sterlingcollege.edu

Funding Opportunities for Businesses & Communities

• NBRC Pre-Application - Apply by Sept 6th All Northern Border Regional Commission programs require a pre-application through the Grants Management System. Prepare with virtual informational sessions by Sept 6th for the Catalyst, Forest Economy, or Timber for Transit programs Here.
• NVDA Professional Assistance Cost Sharing Program NVDA is providing grant funds for professional assistance to NEK businesses and nonprofits to support the cost of outside professional services like architectural & engineering design; accounting & bookkeeping; business planning; feasibility studies; legal services; permitting; professional development; strategic planning; marketing; website development; and more! Grant funding for eligible projects can cover as much as 70% of project costs with a 30% match requirement. Professional Assistance Cost Share Program Contact Annie McLean for help in identifying the appropriate scope of the project. amclean@nvda.net
• Newport Small Business Technical Assistance Program Newport Downtown Development is offering funding for technical assistance services for small businesses located in the Designated Newport City Downtown. Reimbursable grant funds can cover up to 100% of the project. NCIC is assisting in the management of these funds. For more information, questions or application, contact Aimee Quimby, Aquimby@ncic.org 802) 748-5101 x2019.
• NCIC Professional Assistance Program Northern Community Investment Capital will help fill a financial gap to preserve and create jobs in the NEK. Funds are available to support a variety of outside professional services. Learn more Contact Chris Grant cgrant@communityloanfund.org
• 2024 Downtown & Village Center Tax Credit Program The tax credit program helps to stimulate private investment by supporting the creation and improvement of rental housing. Successful projects range from modest renovations in small village centers to multimillion-dollar downtown redevelopments. The program creates jobs and supports general rehabilitation, code compliance work, facade improvements, and flood mitigation upgrades. 2024 Downtown & Village Center Tax Credit Program For assistance contact Annie McLean amclean@nvda.net
• 2024-25 Recreational Trails Grants - Next Round in October Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funding for trail maintenance and construction of municipal and nonprofit trail projects across the state. Visit the website for the timeline and key information Here (Note: This grant program cannot fund any emergency response work, but if there is a longer-term trail project for recovery or deferred maintenance, this might be an opportunity to consider.)
• Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC) This grant program provides funding to rural communities and small towns to help leverage a growing outdoor recreation economy. This is an opportunity to directly apply for federal assistance to revitalize streets, diversify economies, preserve and protect natural resources, and more. Applications due Oct 16th. Read more RERC Note: A webinar is offered Sept 5th.
• Municipal Technical Assistance Program (MTAP) Often, small rural towns in need of investment lack in-house capacity to develop local projects and access grant funds. The Vermont Council on Rural Development is offering free technical support services through MTAP. Need help to review assets and needs and prioritize projects, or help with grant-writing, permit applications, or regulatory compliance? Learn more by contacting Jessica Savage, VCRD's Director of Community Collaboration jessica@vtrural.org.
• Rural Fire Protection Grant Program The installation of new dry hydrants and other types of rural water supplies is still the program priority, but eligible projects may include repair/upgrade, replacement, or relocation of existing rural water supplies (whether previously grant funded or not), and drafting site development. visit vacd.org/programs/rural-fire-protection to download the application packet or contact Troy Dare (802) 828-4582 to have an application mailed.
• Funding Cycle Open: FFY2024 Clean Water Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWSRF) The VT Agency of Natural Resources is soliciting a project priority list. Planning and design funds are available at any time, however, any project that requires construction funding must be on the priority list. For more information and applications visit Priority Lists - CWSRF & DWSRF
• Better Places Grants If your town is thinking of more parks and green spaces, a vibrant main street, public art, and community gardens, Better Places grants can help. The statewide program is supported by VT Department of Housing & Community Development, VT Department of Health, and VT Community Foundation. Projects are accepted on a rolling basis. Visit the website: Better Places
• Community Heart & Soul The Community Heart & Soul Seed Grant Program is uniquely designed for small cities and towns (population 2,500-30,000). Successful applicants will receive $10,000 grants to match funding from a participating municipality or a partnering organization. Apply Here. Awards are made on a rolling basis.

Funding for VT Farm, Food & Forestry Sectors

• Agriculture Funding Opportunities: The VT Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets maintains a website of grants, loans and financial assistance that targets specific agricultural needs Here. View the VAAFM Grants Calendar. The Agency offers a newsletter: VT Ag Bulletin Sign up for up-to-date funding opportunities and deadlines.
• Farm to Plate is Vermont's food system plan. The plan is being implemented statewide to increase economic development and jobs in the farm and food sector; improve soils, water, and resiliency of the working landscape in the face of climate change; and improve access to healthy local food for all Vermonters. Learn more and sign up for their newsletter Here

Funding for the Arts

Artist Development Grants: New & Improved Application Process! The Vermont Arts Council is now accepting applications for Artist Development Grants which support artists at all stages of their careers. Grants are awarded for activities that enhance mastery of an artist's craft or skills, or increase the viability of an artist's business. Grants are for $2,000 and there are two rounds each year. The current application deadline is Sept. 10th .Learn more

Loan Programs



• NEK Prosperity Fund The NEK Prosperity Fund is a project of NEK Prosper, NEK Community Action (NEKCA), and Community Capital of VT. The fund was created to organize and focus investment on equity and population health. Loan recipients will receive business support services from NEKCA's financial and business counselors. NEK Prosper
• USDA RD Home Repair Loan Program Federal regulations have made it easier for low-income rural residents to rehab and modernize their homes through USDA 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants. The program provides funding for single family housing to remove health and safety hazards.
• Vermont Community Loan Fund The VCLF is a community-focused alternative lender that provides loans and other resources to local businesses, organizations, early care & learning providers, and developers of affordable housing who don't qualify for a loan from a traditional lender. For more information visit the website Here
• Northeast Kingdom Special Loan Program The VT Economic Development Authority (VEDA) is offering low interest loans under its Small Business Program to growing qualified businesses in Essex, Caledonia and Orleans Counties. The NEK Program can make loans of up to $150,000 for fixed asset acquisition or for working capital purposes. Contact Sandy Croft at (802) 828-5472 Scroft@veda.org.
• NVDA Revolving Loan Program The Northeastern Vermont Development Association has a limited amount of loan funds available for businesses in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans Counties. Funds may be used for the purchase of real property and equipment, working capital, and feasibility studies. For more information contact Tina Gonyaw tgonyaw@nvda.net (802) 748-1220 www.nvda.net. The NVDA EPA Revolving Loan Fund is available to businesses and municipalities for brownfield cleanup projects! Contact dsnedeker@nvda.net.
• Efficiency Vermont Energy Loan  The loan program offers affordable financing options to help residents and business customers move forward with energy efficiency projects designed to deliver savings and spur the economy. Energy Loan 

Incentive Programs for Vermont Businesses      

• VT Employment Growth Incentive Program (VEGI) Vermont offers an economic incentive for business recruitment, growth and expansion. The VEGI program provides financial incentives to qualified businesses that meet performance requirements. Authorization occurs through an application to the VT Economic Progress Council. For more information, visit http://accd.vermont.gov/economic-development/funding-incentives/vegi or contact Jessica Hartleben jessica.hartleben@vermont.gov     
• VT Training Program (VTP) The Vermont Training Program can be used to train new employees or existing employees if the training is needed for new equipment or technology. VTP can pay up to 50% of an employee's wages/salary during the training period - for pre-employment, new hire, and/or incumbent employee training. Are your employees eligible? Contact John Young, Director of Workforce Development Programs (802) 355-2725 John.young@vermont.gov. VTP
• State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) The VT International Trade Division will manage STEP, a grant program for small businesses to compete globally by offsetting the cost of export-related activities like foreign trade missions, export trade shows, training workshops, or designing international marketing campaigns. 2024 STEP grants are awarded on a rolling basis. Visit www.accd.vermont.gov/STEP

Business Resources

• VT Manufacturing Extension Center Visit the VMEC website and check out current postings for learning opportunities involving professional development, coaching, and hands-on training for manufacturers and their employees at all levels. VMEC
• Vermont APEX Accelerator (formerly VT PTAC) VT APEX Accelerator provides businesses with free one-on-one counseling services, technical assistance, and market research to understand the requirements of government contracting. Visit the website Here for a list of workshops with sign-up information. Questions? Contact Brenda Plastridge Brenda.Plastridge@vermont.gov.
• VHCB Farm & Forest Viability Program The program mission is to enhance the economic viability of Vermont farms and forestry enterprises. Business coaching services are offered to eligible farmers, agriculturally-related businesses, forest products enterprises, and forest landowners. VHCB
• VT Department of Labor For Information about job openings and training opportunities by region and industry visit labor.vermont.gov/jobs. VDOL provides free services to employers to help recruit, train and retain a quality workforce. Labor.vermont.gov/jobs
• VT Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) Experienced business advisors are available by email, phone or video conferencing. Do you need help constructing financial statements or application forms for recovery relief funding? For free customized service, contact: Heidi Krantz hkrantz@vtsbdc.org , Heather Gonyaw hgonyaw@vtsbdc.org, or Rick Daniell rick.daniell@vtsbdc.org
• Micro Business Development (MBDP) An experienced business coach can help with business financials, marketing plans, and access to financing for low-to-moderate-income entrepreneurs form Caledonia, Essex and Orleans County. Contact Dustin Smith, NEK Community Action dsmith@nekcavt.org (802) 323-9010 for free coaching. www.nekcavt.org
• Efficiency Vermont Businesses looking for professional advice, financial solutions or project support can access multiple services at Efficiency Vermont: Efficiency VT Business Resources
• NEK Collaborative (NEKC) The Collaborative's mission is to improve the quality of life for all residents in the NEK through coordinated economic and community-supported development. www.nekcollaborative.org.