sector branding for outdoor businesses

Economic Development Marketing

Attracting new businesses and expanding Vermont’s workforce has always been an objective of the Agency of Commerce and Community Development. In an effort to best accomplish these goals, the Vermont Department of Economic Development has been implementing a new Economic Development Marketing Plan, a strategic document that outlines specific marketing tactics to generate economic growth. One of the core components of the strategy is the recently redesigned ThinkVermont.com website that serves as a hub for inspiring stories, encouraging statistics and lots of links to useful information for potential residents, existing Vermont businesses, and businesses looking to relocate or expand into Vermont. 

Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM)

The VDTM offers tourism industry research and partnership opportunities. ThinkVermont.com serves as a one-stop-shopping resource for Vermont residents, business owners and visitors.

Vermont Global Trade Partnership (VGTP)

VGTP is Vermont’s center for international business assistance. Programs help Vermont businesses succeed in international markets by providing access to educational seminars, trade show participation, technical assistance, and one-on-one consulting services. VGTP provides grants and funding for businesses to obtain the exposure and necessary infrastructure to make international transactions possible and assistance includes navigating Foreign Trade Zone Agreements and attending international trade shows with Vermont businesses. 

State Trade Expansion Program Grant (STEP)

STEP has been awarded to Vermont by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to support Vermont businesses to engage internationally through trade missions, trade shows, and export education. The SBA and STEP’s objective is to increase the overall number of U.S. small business exporters and to increase their export sales.The STEP program’s focus in Vermont is on relationship development and export planning—helping businesses diversify to include global markets that benefit companies and their employees alike. Opportunities include participation in trade missions, individual export activities reimbursement and exportech (an immersive program designed to build your “go to” market plan).