Leadership NEK: December Review

The Power of Networking

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:56:35 GMT

There’s real power to a strong network.

Think about what your chamber membership means. Beyond the many tangible benefits , such as fuel discounts and access to VACE Insurance, exists a much greater benefit, measured in terms of community strength and collective vision.

NEK Chamber members are a network of almost 300 (and growing) businesses, non-profits, and individuals invested in the economic excellence of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom .

Through chamber events such as our monthly Legislative Breakfasts and Coffee Hour ; initiatives such as our Housing and Manufacturing Consortia; and programs such as Leadership NEK , the Young Professionals Network , and the Civics Bee , we convene folks from across the entire spectrum of industry, expertise, age, and experience to build, together, a thriving Northeast Kingdom where businesses grow, talent flourishes, and communities prosper.

Think for a moment about your own network: the organizations and- more importantly, people- who you know you could call upon to collaborate. Now imagine every single one of those people having their own unique networks to call upon. When you realize that their networks are, by extension, a part of your own, it’s easy to see how unified we truly are.

At this year’s Chamber Annual Meeting 150+ chamber members and interested community members assembled at the beautiful Burke Mountain Hotel to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and to set a clear focus for the work still to come. Whether or not they were aware of it, every single person in attendance came as both themself and as a conduit for their extended network.

By choosing to be a Chamber member yourself, you are joining a near limitless network of community leaders, business experts, and dedicated individuals, who, together, are a catalyst for powerful and intentional action for all the Northeast Kingdom.

So whether you’re a long-time member, recently joined us, or are just now hearing about us for the first time, we want to thank you for being a part of our community. We invite you to stay informed, stay involved, and remember that when we work together, our strengths are amplified in unmeasurable ways.

Check out our Chamber Events Calendar for opportunities to foster your ever-growing network.

Amplifying Rural Voices

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:00:50 GMT

Act 181 and the Northeast Kingdom

Chamber director Loralee Tester recently shared thoughts on Act 181 in an op ed in VTDigger .

"...Act 181 deserves far more scrutiny than it has received. Because if we are not careful, we will repeat an old pattern in a new form: powerful people deciding, with full confidence in their own righteousness, which Vermonters belong in the future of this state and which do not."

She's not alone in her call for added scrutiny. In a recent article from the Caledonian Record , one Concord, Vermont resident explained the impact of such legislation on their ability to build a life for their family.

“If Act 181 was in place when we built the house, we wouldn’t have done it... We would have bought something already built, or we wouldn’t have moved back home.”

In a state where we continue to grapple with worsening demographic outlooks and a deepening housing crisis , any policy that restricts a community’s freedom to develop with dignity deserves thorough questioning.

That’s exactly why we’d like to shine a spotlight on a movement of rural voices headed to the Vermont State House, Tuesday March 24th at 12:00 PM.

Act 181 impacts all rural Vermonters equally. We encourage legislatures to listen to rural voices and to weigh the implications of this legislation as written on the cost of living, and workforce & housing shortages.

The Strength of Community

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:14:07 GMT

One of the most rewarding aspects of serving as the regional chamber for all the Northeast Kingdom is the numerous opportunities for community engagement.

“The Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to empowering local businesses and enhancing the economic vitality of our region. We strive to foster a vibrant community by providing resources, advocacy, and opportunities for collaboration while promoting the unique culture and natural beauty of the Northeast Kingdom. Together, we build a thriving economy that benefits all residents and visitors.”

- Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce, Mission Statement

While our mission is to empower local businesses and to enhance the economic vitality of the region, we understand that success can only come through collaboration. It comes when community members, business owners, and local leaders have equal opportunities for input and participation.

Our monthly Legislative Breakfast is a living representation of this mission at work, and this most recent session was no exception.

On Monday, February 23rd, we held our second Legislative breakfast of the season. State representatives spoke to specific bills and outcomes being pursued this legislative session and answered questions from the audience on education, affordability, data centers, and more.

We are incredibly fortunate in Vermont to have such strong local ties to our legislature and representatives who are willing and able to make time to hear directly from the community. We are equally fortunate to have a community so willing and able to come out and engage in respectful, thoughtful dialogue with these representatives. When we come together to listen, learn, and share, we initiate real change.

Our Legislative Breakfast will return Monday, March 30th, 8:00 AM at the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum. We hope you’ll join us! Until then, we have even more ways to come together as a community.

Our monthly Coffee and Connections series is the perfect way to warm up to your day with fresh coffee and casual conversation on some of the Northeast Kingdom's hottest topics.

Join us Wednesday, March 4th from 7:30 - 8:30 AM when we'll be joined by the Caledonian Record in a conversation on centered on seeing local businesses thrive in an ever changing technological landscape.

Free to attend. All are welcome—members, non-members, and coffee lovers alike. We hope to see you there!

Bringing the NEK to the Statehouse

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:43:29 GMT

and the Statehouse to the NEK

Last Thursday (January 22nd) was NEK Day at the Vermont Statehouse and the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce showed up in big ways.

The day marked the 5th meeting (and halfway point) of the inaugural Leadership NEK Cohort (LNEK). These community leaders in training hit the road early for a day in Montpelier spent listening to (and in one case) giving testimony to State representatives.

Peggy Clay, human resources manager at Vermont Aerospace in Lyndon and 2026 LNEK participant, spoke passionately of the issues that hold young folks back from maintaining fulfilling careers in the Northeast Kingdom.

“I watched far too many [young people] move away, not because they wanted to, but they just didn’t see a future here for them locally, and that reality just weighed very heavily on me.”

Clay cited a recent partnership between Vermont Aerospace and local high school Lyndon Institute she spearheaded as an encouraging example of the sort of programs that could change narrative for these young people.

But Clay recognizes that the struggles don’t end there.

“I have folks who will apply from Littleton and say, ‘well, with your tax structure, we need an extra $2 per hour,’ and that’s just not a sustainable model for us.”

Chamber representation on the big day didn’t end with Leadership NEK. Testimony was also given by Kayla Veilleux, speaking in her role as the chair of the Northeast Kingdom Young Professionals Network , a project of the NEK Chamber.

“I believe we need better ways of understanding why professionals stay, why they leave, and what would make staying not only viable but desirable to be in the Northeast Kingdom. I would like to see the state dedicate some resources to better understanding the needs of the young professionals who are already in the Northeast Kingdom and hoping to find their community and put down roots there for the long term.”

Read more on each of their testimonies in the Caledonian Record .

Both Clay’s and Veilleux’s testimonies echo what we understand to be among the greatest struggles the NEK currently faces: Housing and Workforce shortages. Which is why, later that same day, Chamber Director, Loralee Tester, provided her own testimony in which she offered a 10-point framework for ensuring legislation passed this session adequately functions in rural contexts. This testimony comes as a culmination of the ongoing work the chamber has dedicated to its Housing and Manufacturing consortiums.

We’re grateful for any opportunity to connect with state legislators, which is why it was all the more exciting when on January 26th, just days later, we were joined by several Northeast Kingdom legislators at the first of this year’s monthly Legislative Breakfasts . While over a foot of fresh snowfall overnight may have kept us from convening in person, the NEK continued to show up with strong attendance via our live streamed Q&A with representatives from all corners of the region.

These gatherings are a time for community members to ask questions, and foster all-around clear, direct communication between the business community and our elected officials. The series will return Monday, February 23rd back at the St Johnsbury Athenaeum (weather permitting, of course).

But the opportunities to gather and collaborate don’t end there! We hope you’ll join us next week for our upcoming Coffee & Connections , in which we’ll hear from Passumpsic Bank on best practices for avoiding fraud in your business.

There is still lots of work ahead, but it is inspiring to see all the ways in which the Northeast Kingdom shows up for one and other. We encourage you to stay informed, stay involved, and stay curious about all the ways in which we can foster a region of abundance and a Northeast Kingdom that works for us all.

Regional Advocacy

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 21:11:51 GMT

...and a stern call for action

2025 was a busy year for the chamber- just read our Year in Review published last month in the Caledonian Record . The past year of convening and community engagement has all been in preparation for what’s to come in 2026.

“...as we look to 2026, our focus is clear: to convene more voices, strengthen regional collaboration, and address the issues that most significantly hold our businesses back.

Chief among these is housing. Without enough homes–affordable, attainable, and available (and ideally in truly livable condition)—our employers cannot hire, our communities cannot grow, and our region cannot reach its full potential.

The Chamber intends to lean in more deeply to this work, helping shape solutions that support economic vitality across all three counties while respecting the beauty and character of the region.”

-Loralee Tester (Director, NEK Chamber)

This work cannot wait. In a recent op-ed to VT Digger , Chamber Director Loralee Tester called upon all Vermonters to take “a careful look. Not a defensive one. A serious one,” at the trajectory of our state as we grapple with growing affordability, housing, and workforce crises.

“As a state, we have to acknowledge that we are falling behind in ways that directly affect how people live, work and raise families.

As [ a report from Vermont Futures Project ] illustrates, we now live in a state where a growing number of people cannot afford to live.”

-Loralee Tester (Director, NEK Chamber)

This urgency is what informed Tester’s recent testimony to the House Committee on General and Housing in which she advocated for investment at the state-level that fits the needs of rural Vermont.

“What I’ve learned since [my last testimony one year ago] is not that decision-makers are unaware of rural challenges. It’s that everyone is trying to get the biggest bang for the buck.

But the reality is this: what pencils in Chittenden County often does not pencil in rural Vermont. If we don’t design different tools, rural places will continue to fall behind—not for lack of will, but for lack of workable pathways.”

This testimony included several tangible, practical steps for lawmakers to consider including reforms to Act 250, ways to address gaps in access to capital for local developers, strategic land use incentives, innovation on housing development, and more.

The challenges we face here in the Northeast Kingdom are real, and they are significant, but they are not without hope. The chamber will continue to advocate for our region at the state level and look for more ways to support our member businesses.

“…businesses are not the bad guys. They are employers, taxpayers, innovators and community sponsors. Without them, there is no tax base to fund the services we value so deeply.”

To this end, we invite you to join us at our Monthly Legislative Breakfast series :

These one-hour sessions are designed to foster clear, direct communication between the business community and our elected officials. Legislators will offer brief updates, leaving the majority of the time for questions and discussion.

Cost: $5 at the door

Please come prepared with a question that focuses on what our state legislators can meaningfully influence.

Last Monday of Each Month | 8:00–9:00 AM

January 26

February 23

March 30

April 27

May 18

"...it is our businesses, and the people behind them, that keep both our state and our region humming. This is a place of grit, creativity, and generosity. I am regularly moved by the commitment and kindness of the people who make the NEK what it is.

So the question for 2026 is this: How do we ensure we are a region of abundance?

What do you need for your entrepreneurial spark to ignite?

What are you willing to contribute to help create the conditions where ideas can catch fire and spread?

Together, we can shape a thriving future for the Northeast Kingdom. The work ahead is big, but our community is bigger. Let’s lean in. Let’s build it, together."

Leadership NEK: December Session

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 01:07:13 GMT

Seeing opportunities in connections

December saw Leadership NEK ’s fourth session of ten, scheduled to graduate in June of 2026.

The inaugural cohort met on Lyndon Institute’s campus for a day full of guest speakers and collaborative learning, with this session focused on economic development and entrepreneurship.

In the morning, Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak met the cohort to discuss the importance of leadership, how the state demographics and housing crisis relate to the state economy, and First Steps Forward , a pilot program focused on the Northeast Kingdom.

“There will be a lot of opportunities to step into leadership roles in Vermont within the next ten years,” said Treasurer Pieciak, celebrating the cohort’s dedication to their community. “I think the next decade will be transformative for us, in many ways.”

NEK Chamber director Loralee Tester thanked Treasurer Pieciak for attending, and expressed how special it is to live in a state where you’re able to have such a direct connection to state leadership. “You know how to get a hold of me, so if you have follow-up questions or things that are going on here in the community that you want the State of Vermont to know about, or the State of Vermont to help in some way, just reach out. I’m happy to do whatever I can,” said Treasurer Pieciak.

Next on the guest docket, Leadership NEK welcomed the Lyndon Rotary to speak about their approach to community involvement, and socialized over lunch graciously sponsored by the Rotary.

The cohort had opportunities to ask the Lyndon Rotarians about the history of the Rotary model, their mission, and their current projects (and their favorite winter holiday treat!)

The afternoon featured focused breakout groups with Dr. Alex Herzog (Director of Career & Technical Ed, Lyndon Institute), Jackie Patridge (Commercial Loan Officer, Passumpsic Bank), and Thad Richardson (Chief Financial Officer, VEDA).

Cohort members had an opportunity to approach industry leaders with their questions and presented their key takeaways on the topics of workforce development, accessing funding through a business loan, and gap financing.

After a day full of questions and answers, Leadership NEK welcomed long-time Sutton town moderator Chip Devenger to speak on leading effective meetings.

Highlights of Devenger’s presentation included the importance of preparation, how to set expectations for both the speaker and the audience, and the value of commanding a room with authenticity.

Cohort members celebrated Devenger’s witty approach to presenting, and asked for advice on developing their own voices when facilitating.

“It’s important to consider the audience you’re presenting to, to be honest, [and to] just keep practicing,” responded Devenger.

“With each of these moments, you see how every one of these organizations intersect, and how it’s a part of the larger picture, and it’s really powerful. I think Vermont, in its smallness, is such a cool opportunity that you actually can be very much a part of its growth and solutions.”

- Loralee Tester (director, NEK Chamber)

The next session for Leadership NEK will be January 22nd, 2026 at NEK Day at the Statehouse.

To learn more about NEK Day and register to attend this free event yourself, check out the NEK Collaborative .

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:59:15 GMT

Lead & Tackle - Returning To Our Roots In The Northeast Kingdom

The snow fell this week—an early reminder that winter is coming, and that life in the Northeast Kingdom is not for the faint of heart. Living here is an active choice. It’s not easy, but it’s real. And maybe that’s exactly why people love it so much.

At our most recent Wednesday Chamber Coffee Hour , I had a wonderful chat with Ted Benoit, owner of Lead & Tackle in Lyndonville , and found myself looking forward to my next stop in. It’s a hunting and fishing store, but it’s so much more than that.

The first thing you notice isn’t the gear. It’s the warmth. A husband, wife, young son, and two dogs greet you like family. I’m not a hunter myself and only know so much about that world, but the moment I walk through the door, I always feel at ease. This isn’t your typical gun shop—it’s a place where anyone can walk in and feel welcome.

The owners believe in keeping things simple and sourcing locally wherever possible. Their philosophy is clear: quality over quantity, sustainability over flash. In a time when nearly everything feels mass-produced and disposable, they remind us what craftsmanship and care really look like.

Located at 31 Middle St. , Lead & Tackle is also a reflection of something deeper in our regional identity. Hunting and fishing have always been part of the Northeast Kingdom’s story. What once was a means of survival has become a connection to heritage and the land. Today, it’s also about conservation. According to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department , the number of resident hunting licenses sold in Vermont has dropped by nearly 25% over the past two decades. Yet hunters remain some of the most active conservationists, funding habitat protection and wildlife management through license fees and excise taxes.

The connection between sustainability, stewardship, and self-reliance is alive and well inside this shop. Here, you can bring in an old gun to be repaired instead of replaced, or pick up the gear you need to put local food on your table. They offer firearm safety courses for women, help first-time anglers learn to tie a lure, and create space for anyone who wants to engage with the outdoors in a responsible, community-minded way.

And while their focus is on hunting and fishing, the shelves tell a broader story: “ridiculously small LEGO sets,” “the most in-depth sticker collection this side of the Connecticut River,” and plenty of items you won’t find anywhere else. According to Ted, it might be a little hectic at times, but in all the best ways. It’s real, local, and full of heart.

The owners are working to grow their social media presence, though that comes with its own challenges as outdoor stores often get flagged or restricted online. Still, their community connection is what sustains them. When you shop there, you’re not just buying a product; you’re supporting a family, a way of life, and a piece of the NEK’s living culture.

As we move into the colder months and the holiday season, this is what “shopping local” really means. Every dollar spent at a store like Lead & Tackle strengthens our local economy and keeps our traditions alive.

Hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in the Kingdom aren’t just hobbies, they’re reminders of who we are. They keep us grounded, connected to nature, and tied to one another. At a time when so much feels uncertain, that’s something worth holding onto.

So this season, stop into Lead & Tackle, or any of our incredible local businesses, and see what makes the Northeast Kingdom so special . You might just find more than what you came for.

Winter in the NEK

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:50:59 GMT

Winter Guide 2025-2026: Where Adventure And Warmth Meet

The allure of the Northeast Kingdom does not fade when the leaves drop, it transforms. As the first snow blankets our hills and valleys, the Kingdom becomes a place of quiet beauty and exhilarating adventure. Winter here is not simply endured; it is embraced, celebrated, and lived with the same joy and soul that defines our region in every season.

Last year, Jay Peak saw record snowfall, drawing skiers and snowboarders from across New England to its powder-filled slopes. Just down the road, Burke Mountain , now under new ownership, is buzzing with energy and fresh investment. Whether you’re tackling glades, cruising groomers, or taking your kids to the learning area, the mountains here remind us why the Kingdom is one of the most cherished winter destinations in the Northeast.

But the magic of winter in the NEK goes well beyond the chairlift. Island Pond , known as Vermont’s “Snowmobile Capital,” offers 110 miles of groomed trails connecting to the VAST network , where snowmobilers ride through forests, fields, and frozen lakes. The NorthWoods Stewardship Center in East Charleston maintains trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and even offers winter ecology tours that reveal the hidden life beneath the snow. For those who prefer slower rhythms, try ice fishing on Island Pond, or lace up skates on Craftsbury Outdoor Center ’s pond, where hockey games and free skates unfold under crisp blue skies.

Craftsbury itself hums with winter activity. The Craftsbury Outdoor Center maintains over 100 kilometers of groomed trails for skate and classic skiing, and also offers fat biking, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding with Eden Dogsledding nearby. If your day calls for warmth instead, stop in at Hill Farmstead Brewery for world-renowned beer or head to the Highland Center for the Arts for live performances that remind us the arts are just as alive in January as they are in July. Stop in for a cuppa at Front Seat Coffee in Hardwick, and you won’t want to leave! In fact, you’ll feel like you’ve come home.

In Canaan , Fletcher Park’s outdoor rink fills with skaters, while sleigh rides through farms and forest roads connect visitors to the timeless rhythm of winter in the North Country. Wildlife watching, snowshoe hikes, and the hush of snow falling through the Averill Mountains reveal a Kingdom at its most serene, and then you pop into April’s Maple and feel transported to another time.

And then there’s Newport , where winter is embraced with its own blend of energy and creativity. From fat biking along frozen Lake Memphremagog to cozy meals at local restaurants, the town pairs natural beauty with community warmth. Catamount Arts , based in St. Johnsbury , continues to enliven our winters with concerts, films, and performances, as well as appearances from the Vermont Symphony Orchestra or incredible guests through the Northeast Kingdom Classical Series , that fill our calendars with light during the darkest months.

Each of these corners of the Kingdom also offers the most amazing and lovely little restaurants, cafés, and eateries, perfect for a pre-adventure breakfast or a fireside bite after a day on the trails. Whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of soup, a locally brewed pint, or a cozy spot with a view of the falling snow, you’ll find it here.

The best way to discover what’s happening in your corner of the Kingdom—whether it’s a winter concert, festival, or a new spot to warm up after a ski, is to call the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce at 802-626-5594 or visit nekchamber.com (or northeastkingdom.com ) for updates, itineraries, and insider tips.

This is the Kingdom in winter: vibrant trails, snow-laden woods, and towns that shine with culture, warmth, and resilience. The NEK reminds us that winter is not an obstacle but an invitation to slow down, to adventure, to connect.

Here, when the snow falls, the soul of the Kingdom shines all the brighter and welcomes you in.

Business Spotlight; OneWorldU

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:22:53 GMT

OneWorldU Helps Local Businesses See New Possibilities

When Shaun Collins stood before the crowd at Catamount Arts during the Rumble in the Kingdom pitch competition, his calm confidence drew people in. He wasn’t there to sell a gadget or push a product. He was there to share a vision—one that connected art, technology, and rural enterprise in a way that felt both fresh and deeply rooted in the spirit of the Northeast Kingdom.

Collins, founder of OneWorldU, took home the top prize for Community Impact and a $5,000 award. His business uses drone technology to help small businesses strengthen their visibility and storytelling. In a region where many entrepreneurs struggle to be seen, he saw an opportunity to use imagery and perspective as tools for empowerment.

A photographer at heart, Collins said his interest began with curiosity. “I’ve always been curious about everything,” he said. “For me, it started with photography. Having the ability to see the world from above had always been a dream—and suddenly, drones made that possible.” That sense of wonder evolved into a mission: to help businesses express who they are and what they offer in ways that attract customers, build trust, and sustain growth.

The judges at Rumble in the Kingdom recognized something essential in his pitch. Beyond the technology, OneWorldU offers a simple, community-minded idea: that better visibility leads to stronger confidence, and stronger confidence leads to growth. Through high-quality visuals, data collection, and storytelling support, Collins helps small businesses find clarity and direction—key ingredients for success in rural economies.

He was also struck by the energy in the room that evening. The event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and community members from across the region, each eager to see what new ideas were taking shape. It was, he said, “a reminder that innovation isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about how you share it. Clear, simple storytelling is what gets people on board.”

Collins plans to reinvest his winnings into expanding OneWorldU’s business services and developing new tools for local entrepreneurs. His approach is intentionally balanced: embracing technology while respecting the rural character of the region. It’s a conversation we have often at the Chamber—how to honor our traditions while embracing innovation. There is always a way forward, and it starts with asking the right questions: How can we preserve what makes this place special while welcoming new ideas that help it grow?

Looking ahead, Collins hopes to expand into the Kingdom’s cornerstone industries—agriculture, real estate, tourism, and conservation—using drone technology to help them reach new markets and tell their stories in new ways.

In a place defined by hard work and heart, OneWorldU reminds us that innovation can be both practical and poetic. Sometimes, seeing our community from a new perspective helps us understand what’s possible—and what’s worth preserving.

Housing, Workforce & the Work Ahead

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:55:53 GMT

For Chamber Director, Loralee Tester, October was a month filled with meaningful conversations about the systems that shape our communities. One event from Let’s Build Homes brought together hundreds of Vermonters focused on addressing Vermont’s housing crisis.

“The energy and collaboration in that room were deeply inspiring — a reminder that solving housing isn’t about changing what makes Vermont special, but ensuring our children and workforce can afford to stay here.” – Loralee Tester

Tester also had the opportunity to sit on a state committee exploring health outcomes through the lens of an abundance mindset — asking what we might uncover if we focused on possibility rather than scarcity? That same spirit was reflected later in a talk featuring Derek Thompson , co-author (alongside Ezra Klein) of Abundance . Thompson ended the talk on this powerful note:

“Growth is good. Change is hard. Both are true. And stasis sucks.”

It’s a timely challenge for all of us.

What can we — the Northeast Kingdom — do to encourage healthy growth, embrace valuable change, and acknowledge that stasis only deepens our affordability and workforce challenges?

There’s so much good work happening already.

“I was honored to serve as a judge for this year’s Rumble in the Kingdom , where four remarkable businesses won prizes and eight more showcased powerful, community-driven ideas. Innovation is alive and well here in the NEK.” – Loralee Tester

More good work is still to come.

The Chamber’s new Workforce Development Coordinator begins next week. This position, funded through a grant from the Vermont Department of Labor , will help accelerate the efforts of the NEK Chamber’s Manufacturing Consortium , building stronger connections between employers, educators, and future workers.

We are endlessly grateful for the support of chamber members who continue to make this important work possible. In December, we’ll be sending out 2026 membership invoices. We’re working hard to make membership even more valuable, with new member-to-member benefits designed to save you money and connect you with other local businesses.

Current benefits include:

Fuel Discounts through our partner programs .
Group Rates for dental, vision, and pet insurance — a fantastic way to extend benefits to your employees or yourself.
Exclusive Member-to-Member Offers:
Linda Lanteigne Photography – discounted headshots and business photo sessions
Northeast Kingdom Online – reduced-rate website design for members– details to come in next month's newsletter
Catamount Arts – free popcorn with your movie ticket

We’re working to introduce membership cards to make it easy to access and verify your benefits. If your business would like to offer a discount or perk to fellow members, please contact the Chamber office . It’s a wonderful way to promote your business while contributing to a more connected, thriving community.

Starting Locally, Thinking Regionally

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:26:08 GMT

Every success starts with strategy.

We're always looking for new ways to support our members and advocate for the region. To the benefit of each of these goals comes the exciting news that the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce has officially stepped in to the role of managing northeastkingdom.com .

We are grateful for the Northern Forest Center , for the work they’ve put into the campaign over the past several years, and for their support throughout this transition.

“We convened the original partners and raised the funds to create a collaborative marketing effort, with the intention that an NEK-based organization would eventually take the reins,” said Center Vice President Joe Short .

We are proud to take those reins.

Where we've started

Since stepping into this role last month, we’ve already been able to make improvements to the services we offer our members. To help businesses and organizers best reach their audience, we've split our calendar duty up. Using the same, simple submission form as before, we'll make sure your events get where they need to for the greatest impact.

NEKChamber.com/events will continue to host all things business-- workshops, networking events, etc... while NortheastKingdom.com/event-calendar will host all things arts, culture, and of broader regional interest.

We encourage you to share your events with us early and often so we can do our best to help you spread the word.

Where we're going

Managing regional marketing for the NEK will be no easy task. We are looking forward to ongoing opportunities to collaborate with chamber members and regional partners to represent the region in a way that works for locals and visitors alike.

Your feedback is crucial to the success of this and future campaigns. We’ve already begun to work with municipalities and town chambers throughout the NEK to coordinate efforts moving forward. We welcome community feedback and invite your support in ensuring our messaging is truly representative of this beautiful place we are so blessed to call home.

Next month

Our monthly Coffee & Connections series returns November 5 ^th with the theme of “Shop Local, Think Regional.”

With the winter holiday season right around the corner, we’re welcoming the opportunity to highlight our local businesses, explore collaborative marketing ideas, and talk about how we can all help strengthen the regional economy.

Save the date (details below) and join us in what is sure to be an inspiring and cheerful community conversation over some fresh coffee.

Igniting Ideas In The Northeast Kingdom

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:15:42 GMT

A Kingdom Ablaze with Opportunity

I just wrapped up two days, along with our amazing partners, NVDA and other NEK leaders, talking with colleagues from across the country about what it really takes to grow entrepreneurship in rural regions. One thing became clear: entrepreneurship isn’t a niche concern. It’s foundational to a healthy economy. Every thriving business, nonprofit, and community initiative starts the same way: with someone willing to imagine something new and take a risk.

Here in the Northeast Kingdom, we have an incredible reservoir of creativity. Sometimes it shows up in obvious ways, like a new cafe or a manufacturing startup. Other times it’s tucked inside a garage, a kitchen table, or a classroom. The challenge is helping those sparks catch fire, giving people the support, tools, and encouragement to turn good ideas into lasting enterprises.

That’s why programs like Pitch Kitchen are so important. At the last session, led by fellow entrepreneur David Roth, about 20 of us gathered to share and listen to ideas. Even people like me who had never thought of themselves as “inventors” found a place at the table. Two middle schoolers pitched a design to harness the energy of riding their bikes to power electronics. The room lit up with questions, suggestions, and applause. It wasn’t about perfect business plans; it was about possibility.

Spaces such as Do North Coworking in Lyndonville, or our sister organizations throughout the state, give that possibility a home. They’re more than shared desks and Wi-Fi—they’re intended to be environments where people can collaborate, learn, and grow. The programming supported by NVDA provides the opportunity for entrepreneurs to meet mentors, refine their pitches, and build relationships that make starting something new just a little less scary. This regional leadership, Catamount Arts’ partnership on events like Rumble in the Kingdom , and a steady pipeline of support networks help ensure that promising ideas can find a path forward.

Entrepreneurship is a long game. It takes practice, feedback, and community. Chamber member Luke Robinson of RS Developments , for example, returned to Pitch Kitchen to hone a concept he’d first shared months ago, and has tapped into the many valuable resources of our incredible community through Passumpsic Bank and the Small Business Development Center . He and others will keep refining their work ahead of the October 23 pitch competition, where $20,000 will be awarded to promising ventures. Each step, each conversation, strengthens the fabric of our regional economy.

As director of the Northeast Kingdom Chamber, I see firsthand how supporting entrepreneurs lifts entire communities. When we invest in training, mentorship, flexible workspaces, and networks that welcome both bold visions and modest experiments, we cultivate resilience. We also make room for the next generation to stay, build, and lead here at home.

Entrepreneurship isn’t reserved for a select few with capital and connections. It’s something any of us can nurture, whether by sharing an idea, giving feedback, or cheering on someone who’s just starting out. I’m willing to bet each one of you reading has had an idea, a spark, that, if lit, could turn into something pretty cool.

If you want to be part of this movement, take the time to attend a pitch night, become a mentor, or simply stop by DoNorthCoworking.com to see what’s happening. You may discover that the next big thing in the Northeast Kingdom begins with an ordinary conversation, and maybe even with you.

Loralee Tester, NEK Chamber Of Commerce Director

What's in a Chamber?

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 21:50:19 GMT

Community, Connection & Collaboration.

If you’ve been keeping an eye out on our blog the past few weeks, you might have noticed—we’re juggling quite a few projects.

It’s hard to believe that we’re already gearing up for another year of the National Civics Bee , or that Leadership NEK is just weeks away from kicking off! But how do initiatives like these, or our housing and manufacturing consortiums connect? And given all this work, what is it exactly that our chamber is all about?

"...we recognize the wealth of expertise that exists in our region in folks who understand their day-to-day needs both personally and professionally..."

The Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce is here to be our region’s hub for economic vitality, community resilience, and leadership. Our goal is to support a thriving NEK where businesses can grow, talent can flourish, and communities can prosper.

This is a sizeable mission, and one that we can’t go at alone. Our strategy is to build a connected, sustainable, and prosperous economy by working across sectors—business, workforce, education, housing, and community development.

None of us can be expected to have a singular solution to everything. At the chamber, we recognize the wealth of expertise that exists in our region in folks who understand their own day-to-day needs both personally and professionally. This is exactly why we operate as a membership organization, open to all—businesses, nonprofits, and individuals—working to serve the hugely diverse needs of the region through programs, advocacy, and connections.

So whether you’ve found your way into the chamber to make use of our fuel savings , or to get your business listed on our local directory , we hope you stay with and engage with us as we work together to craft a Northeast Kingdom that works for us all.

Guest Blog - NEK Young Professionals Network

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:22:33 GMT

GOOD THINGS DON'T TAKE TIME, THEY TAKE EFFORT

I’ve always been short. It wasn’t like I was ‘the tall kid’ until 5th grade, then all of my classmates grew around me- I was always one of the shortest kids in my class, all throughout school. My aunt would light-heartedly tell me, “good things take time” when I’d get frustrated being unable to ride the big waterslides. Maybe it’s because height is genetic, and I never did have that big growth spurt, but I’ve just never been a fan of the phrase.

Stay with me, I’m going to connect it.

I, like many others, moved away then moved back to the Northeast Kingdom. In the process, I re-realized something I learned back in high school: there’s just something special about the NEK. That’s not to say the area is perfect, but, something’s different here, right? When I moved back as a young adult, I heard from so many friends who had also moved away, “Why did you move back? There’s nothing there for someone in their 20s who’s not a mountain biker or a logger”, but I love the Kingdom and the unique experiences and pace of life that can exist here. I intend to live here for a long time, so the way I see it, it’s in my best interest to do all I can to make the Kingdom a great place for someone like me to live.

Earlier in August , a blog was posted here that spoke on opportunity, and while I would be happy to attempt to re-word what was written, I feel it’s already been put perfectly,

“Industry in Vermont may seem small and limited, but that doesn’t mean our communities don’t need those skills. A lack of industry isn’t a lack of opportunity, in fact, it is the very essence of opportunity. The Northeast Kingdom is a place where folks from any background can come and build, for themselves, the very business they’re looking to work for, in the place they want to live.”

I don’t like the phrase “good things take time” because it speaks with no regard to the effort that goes into making things good. It’d be nice to wait for the Kingdom to become ‘better’, but here in the NEK we’ve seen that waiting for things to change, or complaining that things should change, never brings the results we daydreamed about over a beer with a neighbor. When it feels like a lot of effort, I remind myself: not participating in the community doesn’t make me not a member of the community, it just makes me an unproductive member of the community.

Although I personally never hit mine, I whole-heartedly believe the Kingdom is just on the brink of its own growth spurt. And, I've learned that here, effort has impact. Our community has a real opportunity to steer that growth and make sure every neighbor is positively impacted by the effort taken to improve our home.

This week, we've invited Kayla Veilleux, chair of our NEK Young Professionals Network Steering Committee to share her perspective on life in the Northeast Kingdom and to learn what inspires her to stay involved with her community.

If you'd like to learn more about our Young Professionals Network, follow the links below, and be sure to join us at our upcoming monthly Coffee Hour on Wednesday September 3rd from 7:30 - 8:30 AM at the Chamber's offices in Lyndon for a chance to meet members and learn about their vision.

Member Announcement - Kingdom Canine Center For Sale

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:22:57 GMT

Animal Lovers- Business for Sale!

Established business for sale in the NEK

Kingdom Canine Center

Details below:

https://neren.paragonrels.com/paragonls/publink/view.mvc/?GUID=3a1a9293-0a85-4e7a-801b-f0ba71418a4d&Report=Yes

Keys to the Kingdom: Turning Opportunity into Reality

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:04:26 GMT

Why do you stay in the NEK?

This past weekend, thanks to a collaborative effort between several organizations, and under the orchestration of one particularly dedicated young professional, Vermonters had the chance to make their case to 13 visiting individuals and families who are considering calling the Northeast Kingdom home. Keys to the Kingdom offered visitors a 3-day curated experience and a chance to meet with local leaders, lenders, realtors, and community members. Our guests learned what it’s like to live, work, and play like a local, and challenged us with tough questions about the realities of life here.

One word that came up, over and over again, was “opportunity.”

The entire three-county region is home to barely 64,000 people. That’s less than 10% of Boston alone. So, what opportunities could there be that would make it worth heading 3+ hours further north to leave behind the restaurants and nightlife of the city in exchange for quiet towns that fall asleep by 8pm?

The beauty of the NEK, beyond the foliage and flannels, is in the unwavering sense of community.

Sure, the roads can get icy in the winter—you’ll probably get stuck in a snowbank one day— but I’d put money on it that the first pick-up truck to pass you on the road will pull over, break out their chains, and get you back on the road before you’ve even had the chance to call for a tow. There’s a real baseline of respect for your neighbors here—no one wants to see the other fail. As much as we’d love for our region to be a great place to visit, we’d love even more that it be a place to stay. That’s why now, more than ever, our communities are rallying to invest in themselves and in their futures.

In the NEK we DIY.

Another key aspect of life in the Northeast Kingdom is a fondness for DIY—"do-it-yourself.” I spoke with one visiting couple who both had a background in computer programming and a fear for what to do with that experience once here. It’s hard not to empathize with that fear. Industry in Vermont may seem small and limited, but that doesn’t mean our communities don’t need those skills. A lack of industry isn’t a lack of opportunity, in fact, it is the very essence of opportunity. The Northeast Kingdom is a place where folks from any background can come and build, for themselves, the very business they’re looking to work for, in the place they want to live. While this may seem daunting at first, we are here to help.

Do it yourself doesn’t mean do it alone.

To all Vermonters—old, new, or still on the fence—if you have an idea, a vision, or a dream, but you’ve found yourself stuck, The Chamber will be right around the corner, ready to help get you back on the road towards success.

Thank you to the Vermont Welcome Wagon Project, Northeast Kingdom Young Professionals Network, Northern Forest Center and getNEKedVT, and a special thanks to Theresa Keller for turning this opportunity into a reality.

Leadership NEK: Empowering Future Leaders

qtomasi@variegatedassistance.com (Quintin Tomasi) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:47:46 GMT

Are leaders born or built?

Perhaps the answer isn’t quite so binary.

Through the National Civics Bee Vermont State Finals , we learned the value in offering our youth opportunities to participate in ways they’d never thought possible.

Two weeks later, our Housing Consortium demonstrated what we can accomplish when we stop saying, “someone should do that,” and start saying, “let’s do that.”

The lesson I take from each of these stories is that leaders are all around us, we just need to create spaces that empower them to rise to their full potential.

Enter Leadership NEK , a program designed to assemble and prepare the leaders of tomorrow.

There is a sentiment that too often runs rampant through our rural communities that says, “leadership is for someone else, somewhere else.” The reality is that rising leaders are all around us, just waiting for someone to guide them through the right door and get them started on their journey. Through Leadership NEK we aim to draw out these rising leaders from local organizations and partner them with mentors from our community who can do just that.

Beginning September 25 ^th , participants will gather once a month for 10 sessions designed to explore critical regional issues including economic development, education, housing, health care, local government, and more. Throughout the 10-month experience the cohort will develop their own set of community impact projects to take with them back into their workplaces or volunteer positions. Participants will leave with the skills, knowledge, network, and confidence to navigate the key institutions necessary to implement direct action in their communities.

Leadership is an enduring need, and one that requires constant revitalization and refreshment. Robust mentorship networks and platforms that encourage participation are key to sustaining this critical ecosystem.

Applications for Leadership NEK are now open for all those ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. Apply today or encourage someone within your network to do so.

Local Leaders Unite on Solutions for Housing Crisis

qtomasi@variegatedassistance.com (Quintin Tomasi) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 14:14:40 GMT

Change comes when leaders step up.

Two weeks ago, a brave group of middle school students took to the stage of the Barre Opera House to demonstrate their civic awareness and show us all the power of participation.

Last Tuesday, it was the adults’ turn to rise to the occasion.

Responding to our call to action, 27 leaders representing nearly 20 different organizations from across a dozen industries gathered at the main office of Community National Bank to participate in a conversation addressing the dire need for solutions to the Northeast Kingdom’s housing crisis.

Reporting by the Let’s Build Homes Coalition puts it bluntly:

“our state has the second-highest homelessness rate in the country. The median home price has soared beyond the reach of working Vermonters. Half of all renters are cost-burdened, and one in four spend more than half of their income on housing.”

Tuesday’s conversation wasn’t just about naming problems; it was about identifying opportunities.

Centered around presentations by Kevin Chu, executive director of the Vermont Futures Project, and Jak Tiano, from Let’s Build Homes, this group was able to find a collective voice and a sense of possibility. It was truly incredible to witness the sense of alignment we were able to achieve across such a diverse group of individuals.

This diversity was critical to the goal of the conversation. We all understand that a lack of housing is one of the greatest setbacks to economic development in the region. The housing shortage impacts all industries equally, impeding business’s abilities to hire employees and reach customers. It’s time now to combine our expertise and find real, tangible solutions we can act on.

What will action look like?

Coming out of this conversation, our goal is to create a centralized understanding of all the housing resources available. This will include funding opportunities and permitting assistance, as well as a census of all uninhabited homes, underutilized buildings, and refurbish-ready spaces. This cohesion will streamline processes for developers, town leaders, and hopeful homeowners alike.

Furthermore, the NEK Chamber will continue to advocate for the voices of rural communities at the state level. Changes are coming to Vermont regardless of what we do; it’s our responsibility to ensure that those changes are made by us rather than for us.

This is the beginning of a movement greater than just us. We encourage everyone who’s able to join the conversation and participate in whatever capacity possible. It’s our civic responsibility and our duty now, for the future.

NEK Students Shine in VT Civics Bee State Finals

qtomasi@variegatedassistance.com (Quintin Tomasi) — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:45:27 GMT

Burke Town School Student Wins Shot at Nationals

Participation only works when we participate.

As silly as that may sound, the truth is: civic participation can feel intimidating and unattainable. It can feel as though it’s always for someone else, but never for us. This is why opportunities like the The National Civics Bee, which inspire young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities, are so valuable. It’s why the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce is proud to have partnered with The Civic Trust and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce in orchestrating this year’s statewide finals for the National Civics Bee.

On Wednesday, June 25 ^th , ten Vermont middle school students took to the stage of the Barre Opera House for the National Civics Bee Vermont State Finals. In the end, Burke Town School 8 ^th grader Marshall May took home the win: a $1,000 cash prize, and the chance to represent our state at the National Championship in Washington, D.C. this Fall.

Of the ten state finalists, Marshall was one of seven to hail from the Northeast Kingdom. Other local finalists included Damien Strang of Burke Town School and Bentley Allard, Averill Scott, Aiden Clark, Emelia Brothers, and Taylor Peck of Miller’s Run School.

This is the first year Vermont has participated in the nation-wide competition, and we couldn’t be more grateful for all the brave and talented students from across the state who stepped up to make this possible.

As one student put it, ' I never thought of myself as someone who would do this.'

To that student I say: your willingness to rise up and participate is a reminder that there’s space for everyone— regardless of your age or where you come from—to lean in and make a difference.

This Fall, Marshall May will head to Washington D.C. to compete in the National Championship for a shot at scholarship prizes ranging from $15,000 to $100,000. Best of luck, Marshall!

Take a small step in your civic participation journey by supporting local journalism and reading more about this exciting competition via the Caledonia Record article linked below:

https://www.caledonianrecord.com/news/local/nek-students-commanding-presence-at-vt-civics-bee-state-finals/article_651776e9-246d-5be3-8e7b-e59a59432824.html

Monthly Legislative Breakfast

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 21:48:21 GMT

Monthly Legislative Breakfast

Join us on the last Monday of each month through May at 8:00 AM for our Legislative Breakfast—a forum where business leaders, local officials, and residents come together with our state legislators to discuss the issues shaping Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom.

This monthly gathering offers a unique opportunity to hear legislative updates directly from our elected officials, ask questions, and share your perspective on the policies impacting our region. It’s a space for respectful dialogue, civic engagement, and building stronger relationships between government and community.

Coffee and conversation provided—your voice is welcome and needed.

Coffee Hour

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 21:48:00 GMT

First Wednesday Coffee Hour

Join us on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 AM for our Coffee Hour series—a casual, welcoming gathering where local business owners, civic leaders, and community members come together over coffee to learn, share, and connect.

Each month features a guest speaker or panel who will introduce key resources, new initiatives, or emerging opportunities that impact our region. Whether you're a business leader, nonprofit professional, or engaged citizen, this is a chance to stay informed and build stronger ties across the Northeast Kingdom.

No RSVP required—just show up, grab a cup, and join the co nversation.

Leadership NEK: December Review

The Power of Networking

There’s real power to a strong network.

Amplifying Rural Voices

Act 181 and the Northeast Kingdom

The Strength of Community

- Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce, Mission Statement

Bringing the NEK to the Statehouse

and the Statehouse to the NEK

Regional Advocacy

...and a stern call for action

Leadership NEK: December Session

Seeing opportunities in connections

Lead & Tackle - Returning To Our Roots In The Northeast Kingdom ﻿

Winter in the NEK

Winter Guide 2025-2026: Where Adventure And Warmth Meet ﻿

Business Spotlight; OneWorldU

OneWorldU Helps Local Businesses See New Possibilities

Housing, Workforce & the Work Ahead

Starting Locally, Thinking Regionally

Every success starts with strategy.

Where we've started

Where we're going

Next month

Igniting Ideas In The Northeast Kingdom

A Kingdom Ablaze with Opportunity

What's in a Chamber?

Community, Connection & Collaboration.

Guest Blog - NEK Young Professionals Network

GOOD THINGS DON'T TAKE TIME, THEY TAKE EFFORT

Member Announcement - Kingdom Canine Center For Sale

Animal Lovers- Business for Sale!

Keys to the Kingdom: Turning Opportunity into Reality

Why do you stay in the NEK?

Leadership NEK: Empowering Future Leaders

Are leaders born or built?

Local Leaders Unite on Solutions for Housing Crisis

Change comes when leaders step up.

NEK Students Shine in VT Civics Bee State Finals

Burke Town School Student Wins Shot at Nationals

Monthly Legislative Breakfast

Monthly Legislative Breakfast

Coffee Hour

First Wednesday Coffee Hour

Lead & Tackle - Returning To Our Roots In The Northeast Kingdom

Winter Guide 2025-2026: Where Adventure And Warmth Meet