Move Forward Together Vermont 

VOBA is a partner in Move Forward Together Vermont (MFTV), a statewide planning initiative by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC). The effort will create a shared vision for Vermont's outdoor recreation future and a set of priorities and action steps for the next five years.

Outdoor businesses continue to be a force behind the economic and social impact that outdoor recreation provides the Green Mountain State. Together, we have the opportunity to chart a path forward for the outdoor activities and sector growth we want to realize in 2030.

Over the coming months, VOBA is gathering input from the outdoor business community, and we want to hear from you! 

Join the discussion and peer-to-peer sharing at one of four MFTV industry focus groups. Participants will think creatively about opportunities, gaps, and resources and address themes of equity, climate resilience, innovation and sustainability, and career pathways. Insights will directly inform the MFTV statewide plan as well as VOBA’s work plan and sector projects to strengthen Vermont’s future outdoor economy.

All events are free and offer a networking opportunity. Register for ONE of the events using the links below: 

  • MFTV 2030: Outdoor Business Opportunities, Gaps and Resources

    Wednesday, March 27, 9:30-11:00 am, virtual.

    This structured but wide-ranging conversation about experiences, challenges, and aspirations will form the foundation of our sector planning. 

  • MFTV 2030: Outdoor Business Opportunities and Career Pathways

    Friday, April 12, 12:30-3:00 pm, Community College of Vermont, Montpelier.

    Open to all outdoor recreation businesses and education providers, this structured but wide-ranging conversation about experiences, challenges, and aspirations will also highlight key opportunities for outdoor career exploration and professional development to attract and retain workers in Vermont’s outdoor sector. Lunch will be provided.

  • MFTV 2030: Vision, Priorities, and Investment in the Outdoor Industry

    Wednesday, June 26, Time and Location TBD. Registration opening soon.

    Open to all outdoor recreation businesses and service providers, this opportunity to review and refine the initial draft MFTV vision and outdoor sector priorities allows businesses and funders to pressure test ideas and action items.  

  • MFTV 2030: Path Ahead for the Vermont Outdoor Industry

    Wednesday, July 31, Time and Location TBD. Registration opening soon.

    Open to all outdoor economy stakeholders, the final gathering provides an opportunity to review and refine the initial draft MFTV vision and outdoor sector priorities and map VOBA implementation of the MFTV plan beginning in FY25. 

Join us! If you’re affiliated with an outdoor recreation business or a business that benefits from local outdoor recreation, an industry, equity, or economic development organization, a member of the finance community, an education or workforce development institution, or another partner in Vermont’s outdoor sector ecosystem, lend your voice!  

Take the survey: Look for another opportunity to weigh in through an Outdoor Business Survey, which will be released in mid-May.

Register for additional event details and we look forward to hearing your ideas!

Questions?

Photo: Courtesy of Ming Poon