VOBA Blueprint for Start-Up and Growth Companies in Vermont’s Outdoor Industry
Vermont boosts a diversity of outdoor recreation companies that produce, provide, or sell outdoor recreation products and services to residents and visitors of the Green Mountain State. From long-established, iconic brands to emerging entrepreneurs, the outdoor recreation industry is an economic driver for communities, an innovator in product development and experiences, and adds value to Vermont being a desirable place to live, work and play.
Although a myriad of resources exist to support businesses, needs continue to exist in order for start up companies or those at different levels of growth to be successful into the future. Additionally, opportunities for businesses to invest in the quality recreation networks across the state by partnering with the community and trail-based organizations that build and maintain them are abundant.
VOBA has published an online resource guide specific to outdoor recreation companies located in or operating in Vermont to help the navigation of business development and opportunities to give back to the community. The Blueprint for Outdoor Businesses features public and private programs and services in the areas of business support, financing, workforce development, infrastructure, and sector branding. Organizations, institutions, and state and federal agencies are identified as the experts and point people for more information and next steps.
This guide provides a tool that can strengthen an innovative, entrepreneurial, and collaborative business environment for the sector. VOBA hopes that it leads to opportunities to build relationships, incubate ideas, develop mentorships, share resources, and make investments in businesses across the state and the state’s economy as a whole. We look forward to Vermont continuing to be a place where thriving businesses: are located in our downtowns and villages or nestled in mountain communities; offer rewarding employment to young Vermonters and career professionals; and give generously back to our communities and to sustain our quality recreation infrastructure.
Note the VOBA Blueprint for Outdoor Businesses is in ongoing development as we identify resources or entities. Please forward ideas for consideration to info@vermontoutdoorbusinessalliance.org.
Find resources for the following VOBA priorities to strengthen, expand, attract, and retain outdoor recreation economy businesses in Vermont:
Photo: Courtesy of Roderick Russell/Remakably Human Adventures
Much appreciation goes to Hilary DelRoss for researching and drafting much of the VOBA Blueprint for Outdoor Businesses. VOBA also thanks Christa Shute for her contributions.