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CEDRR Mixer Tonight | Apply for gALPHA StartUp Rutland Accelerator | Goodwill Re-Opening Ribbon Cutting | Wellness Cafe Ribbon Cutting |
What's New in Rutland County | Made at The MINT |
Membership Spotlight | Career Hub | Upcoming Events
CEDRR March Mixer Tonight
Apply Now: gALPHA StartUp Rutland Accelerator
Calling all entrepreneurs and innovators! The gALPHA Startup Rutland Accelerator powered by @gener8tor is now accepting applications! This is your chance to turn your idea or brand into a venture-ready startup with expert mentorship, resources, and connections. What you’ll get: A FREE 4-week
accelerator program Hands-on coaching from industry experts Access to startup, mentor & investor network Deadline to apply: March 31 Apply now →
Ribbon Cutting This Friday
Join us at the Goodwill in Rutland for its Grand Re-Opening on Friday, March 14. The Ribbon Cutting is at 11 a.m. Grand Re-Opening festivities will be from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. The store has completed a full renovation including new floors. Come check out the renovations and celebrate the store's re-opening. Learn more about the store →
Ribbon Cutting Friday, March 28
Welcome to Our New Member
Founded in 1932, Spring Lake Ranch is the creation of Wayne Sarcka, an immigrant from Finland, and his wife, Elizabeth Man, from Long Island. Wayne had worked in youth camps during World War I with shell-shocked British soldiers. Elizabeth, whose brother suffered from schizophrenia, had worked as a social worker in New York settlement houses. During their honeymoon in Killington, Wayne and Elizabeth fell in love with the land around Spring Lake, purchasing it one year later. At first, they intended to open a summer camp, but a friendship with famed New York psychiatrist Dr. Bernard Glueck Sr.,
as well as their obvious passion and talent for the work, led the couple to work with adults with mental illness. 93 years later, Spring Lake Ranch is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that serves adults who are experiencing mental health and substance use challenges. Residents stay on the Ranch long-term, where they receive clinical counseling and medication support combined with a distinctive agricultural, nature-based work program. Each day is structured around farming, gardening, woodworking, cooking, crafting, and forestry. Residents choose a specialty and work side-by-side with their clinicians and other support staff to accomplish short and long-term goals, while learning new skills. Mission: Spring Lake Ranch Therapeutic Community supports and empowers people with mental health and substance use
challenges by providing opportunities to grow and thrive. Through shared experience, meaningful work, and active participation in an accepting, inclusive community, we help each person develop the confidence and skills needed for recovery. Learn More About Spring Lake Ranch →
CEDRR would like to thank the following businesses for renewing their membership:
Join Us for the Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo
For years, the Rutland Chamber, now CEDRR, has hosted a successful Business Show in April. In recent years, it has lost momentum, prompting us to explore new ways to support local businesses, workforce development, and the future of our community’s young professionals. If you own a business in the trades and want to connect with the next generation of skilled workers, CEDRR has an exciting opportunity for you! On Tuesday, May 20, CEDRR is partnering with Bring Back the Trades (BBTT) to raise awareness about trade careers, provide scholarships, and remove barriers that prevent individuals from entering these essential fields. We’re thrilled to bring the Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo to the Vermont State University Castleton Campus—an event designed to connect businesses with students, parents, and educators while offering hands-on experiences. Why This Matters The skilled trades workforce is facing a critical shortage—for every five tradespeople retiring, only two are entering the field. Now is the time for businesses like yours to step up and inspire the next generation. Get Involved - Connect with over 1,000 students from Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire - Participate in the Equipment Rodeo – Showcase cutting-edge tools and technology - Support student scholarships for careers in the trades - Sponsor, exhibit, or provide hands-on demonstrations F.W. Webb has already committed as a multi-year partner,
and we’re looking for more businesses to join this important initiative. Whether through sponsorship, participation, or both, your involvement will make a lasting impact—not just in Rutland County, but across the state. If you’d like to discuss how your company can participate or if you know a business that might be a good fit, please reach out to Chrispin White, Membership and Events Manager, at Chrispin@rutlandeconomy.com or call 802-770-7066. For more details, visit bringbackthetrades.org. Let’s work together to strengthen the future of the trades in Vermont. You can help make a difference!
Industrial warehouse space at 123 Park Street in Rutland.
Warehouse Space Available
123 Park Street, Rutland VT 05701 12,000sq ft metal warehouse with 14-foot ceilings Newly Painted New Heat pumps in both offices New double-entry doors Ample parking Two loading docks with levelers One overhead drive-in door at the back of the facility Two offices- one 390 sq ft, the other 285 sq ft. Two bathrooms, women’s has two stalls and men’s has one stall and one
urinal. Large breakroom with refrigerator Fire alarm Theft alarm- with motion sensors An 8-camera system with night vision Radiant tube heaters for shop floor Two box units in the warehouse Propane heat Compressed airlines throughout the shop 3 phase electric Ceiling fans For more information email: jessica@vtmanufacturing.com View more photos here →
VermontBiz 2025 Best Places to Work in Vermont
Submit Congressionally Directed Spending Requests
Senator Peter Welch has opened his web portal to accept FY26 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) requests from state and local government entities and non-profit organizations based in Vermont. Organizations are encouraged to submit their requests early to accommodate corrections that need to be made or questions that need to be answered before the deadline. All forms must be completed and submitted by Friday, March 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET. Apply here →
Register for the 2025 Vermont Tourism Summit
What sets the Vermont Tourism Summit apart from similar events is that this is the ONLY opportunity for all Vermont tourism-industry businesses to come together. We're not just inviting lodging properties or attractions, or businesses based in one region of the state. We encourage them all to come together to explore partnership opportunities, to learn from one another, and to grow together. The Vermont Tourism Summit draws one of the largest gatherings of tourism professionals in the state including owners, managers and employees of the many businesses connected to this important segment of the economy. If you are part of a tourism-related business or have an interest in the Vermont tourism industry, we invite you to join us to: - Strengthen your business with expert insight from leading consultants
- Master the latest tools, technologies and tactics
- Learn smart strategies from marketing and media practitioners
Register here →
Registration Now Open for the 2025 Vermont Economic Ownership Conference
Join us at the DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington on Friday, May 30 as together we take the next steps towards building an economy that works for everyone. Whether this is your fifteenth, your fifth, or your first time attending, we would be overjoyed to see you there. If it would be your first time and you have any questions about the event, don’t hesitate to shoot us an email and info@veoc.org. Register today
→
Events and Offers at The Hub CoWorks
Patient-Centric Digital Marketing Seminar by Mimi Damm 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 13th The Hub CoWorks As the healthcare industry evolves, organizations must embrace patient-centric digital marketing strategies to enhance engagement, build trust, and drive loyalty. This free seminar at The Hub CoWorks in downtown Rutland, Vermont, will explore innovative approaches to reaching and connecting with patients through targeted digital initiatives. Whether you’re a healthcare marketer, medical practitioner, administrator, or patient engagement specialist, you’ll gain valuable insights into integrating
patient-focused strategies into your marketing efforts. Space is limited—RSVP now on Eventbrite!
CO.STARTERS SPRING ENROLLMENT IS NOW OPEN April 16 to June 18 Wednesdays from 5 PM to 8 PM The FINSYNC CO.STARTERS program is a comprehensive, hands-on course designed to guide you through the process of launching a business. Over the course of 10 weeks, you’ll deep dive into every aspect of building a sustainable and successful business, from refining your idea to developing a business model, and beyond. Due to the interactive nature of the program, enrollment is limited. If you’re interested, be sure to apply as soon as possible to secure your spot. We are excited to share that Heritage Family Credit Union
will continue to partner with The Hub to sponsor and provide mentorship, with support from SCORE VT! To apply, or for more information, visit our page here. Please email Bill with any further questions at Bill@rutlandeconomy.com.
New View from the Top Featuring Bettyjo Bouchey is Out Now Dr. Bettyjo Bouchey, Chief Officer of UVM’s PACE Department, is making a big impact just one year into her role, leading efforts to expand continuing education and professional development programs beyond Chittenden County. In this engaging conversation, she shares what’s working, what’s ahead, and how her expertise in classroom and online learning is shaping initiatives like the UVM Summer Academy and the PRIME program for Vermont National Guard members. We’ll also learn what brought this Oregon native back to the East Coast and how she’s addressing the evolving needs of Vermont’s workforce in this insightful discussion! Listen now →
Transform How You Work at The Hub CoWorks! Located in downtown Rutland, The Hub CoWorks offers flexible coworking memberships and high-tech meeting spaces designed for professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. Enjoy high-speed WiFi, complimentary coffee and tea, telecom rooms, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you need a hot desk, dedicated desk, or meeting room, we have options starting at just $99/month for memberships, or $30 for a day pass. Need a space for meetings? Our state-of-the-art conference rooms can accommodate groups from 10 to 72 people, featuring cutting-edge technology for seamless collaboration. Hourly rates start at $75, with nonprofit discounts available. Elevate your work experience—schedule a tour today! Learn more about The Hub CoWorks →
At The MINT, We Welcome Folks of All Ages and Orientations to Gather, Make, Play, and Build Community
Our first ever Chili Cook Off on March 1 was a HUGE success! Thanks to our pottery guild members for making over 80 beautiful hand-thrown bowls. 60+ folks gathered to eat chili and share space on a beautiful Saturday morning. Stay tuned for more bowls and more reasons to gather in the coming months!
March is women's history month and we are really excited to co-host a Biz Buzz with Vermont Womenpreneurs on Monday, March 24. Join us for a night of networking and fun! This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to mingle with other womenpreneurs in Rutland County. Whether you're looking to make new connections or simply unwind after a long day, this soirée is the place to be. Don't miss out on the chance to mix, mingle, and make connections with biz owners in your community. See you there!
April Break Camp registration in now open! We have two age groups for camp: kindergarten-3rd grade and 4-6 grades. We also have 1/2 week options for those who travel.
Come Play! Game Nights at The MINT: Adults (18+) game space: March 19 , Youth (12-17) game space: March 26
The Glass Studio is busy: Mosaics, Fusing, Stained Glass, and more! Fusing Fridays! This 4-week class introduces you to the art of fusing. Starts March 28th, 12-3 p.m.
Mosaic Tables, in this 4-week class, you will learn the basics of mosaic art and create a functional table. BYO table or we have some at The MINT. Starts March 27th 5-8 p.m.
Monthly Stained Glass Drop-In Support Group. Have you started a stained glass project but need a little more help? Do you wish you had some stained glass buddies to create beside? Come to The MINT glass shop and find your people! March 20th, 6-8 p.m. This is open to members and non-members. This is not a class - you must have experience and the ability to work on your own.
Join RYP for Exciting March Events!
Get ready for a month filled with great company, new experiences, and plenty of fun! 📅 March 13 | Maple Syrup Tasting & Farm Tour
Join us at Baird Farm in Chittenden for a delightful evening of maple syrup tasting, a farm tour, and networking with fellow Young Professionals. This event will take place primarily outdoors, so dress warmly and layer up! 📍 Location: Baird Farm, 65 West Rd, North Chittenden, VT 05763
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM 📅 March 18 | Line Dancing Night
Put on your dancing shoes and join us for a night of fun with Good Time Line Dancing at the Moose Lodge! Whether you're an experienced dancer or a first-timer, this is a great chance to meet new people, learn some moves, and dance the night away. 📍 Location: Moose Lodge, 78 Center St, Rutland, VT 05701
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
💲 Cover Charge: $10 🎟 April 4 | Annual Gala - Tickets Still Available!
Don't miss out on our Annual Gala at the stunning Killington Grand Resort Hotel, featuring breathtaking views of the Green Mountains. Your ticket includes: ✨ Delicious Eats – Heavy hors d'oeuvres & action food stations
🎶 Live Music – Dance the night away with 802 Events
📸 Photo Booth Fun – Capture the memories with PixelPod
🥂 Champagne Toast – Sponsored by BBB of Vermont Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours today! We can’t wait to see you at these events! Get Your Gala Tickets Now Learn more about RYP→
The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region's Career Hub features full-time jobs across Rutland County that provide a salary higher than the Vermont living wage.
View Rutland County career opportunities & post your position →
Economic Insights Powered by NBT Bank
March 11 | 1 PM | Online Uncertainty around tariffs is impacting businesses across Vermont, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The Vermont Chamber is committed to keeping our members informed and supported during this evolving landscape. Join us for a free webinar on Tuesday, March 11, at 1 PM, featuring Ken Entenmann, Chief Economist for NBT Wealth Management. He’ll provide expert insights on the short- and long-term economic impacts of tariffs and key strategies to mitigate risk and maintain stability.
Social Media on Your Schedule with Brittany Winfield
March 12 | 8:30-10 AM | Online Feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending demands of social media? You’re not alone! Many small business owners struggle to find the time to create content, engage with their audience, and keep up with trends - all while running their business. But what if you could make a real impact in just 15 minutes a day? In this workshop, we’ll break down a simple, effective strategy to help you maximize your time on social media without it taking over your to-do list.
How to Start and Email List: Building Genuine Connections Beyond the Algorithm
March 18 | 12-2 PM | Online This session is a 90-minute session, followed by 30 minutes for Q&A. Led by anti-capitalist business coach Emily Eley, this session offers a practical, values-driven approach to starting and growing your email list. This workshop is designed for small business owners, creatives, and changemakers who are ready to step away from the endless social media grind and build deeper, more sustainable connections through email marketing.
Starting Your Own Business - With VtSBDC
March 19 | 10-11:15 AM | Online Starting your own business can be challenging, especially for first-time business owners. If you’re ready to explore turning your idea into a real business opportunity this is for you. By joining this 75-minute workshop, you’ll gain a basic overview of starting your own business including some practical tips/steps. Speaker(s): VtSBDC Business Advisors and Consultants
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