Vermont Small Business Development Center

Established in 1992, VtSBDC is focused on strengthening small businesses in Vermont and addressing their needs through one-on-one advising and training. As a statewide, accredited organization, VtSBDC has personnel who are skilled at managing projects and collaborating with partners. Specifically, VtSBDC is experienced in deploying resources to regions in trouble, as in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene in 2011. Over 300 Vermont small businesses reported physical damage as well as economic losses. The VtSBDC team was recognized for its efforts and created a "Disaster Recovery Guide" for business that has been made available to all SBDCs nationwide and is accessible via the VtSBDC.org website. VtSBDC is uniquely qualified to educate Vermonters in entrepreneurship, given its successful programs for students and teachers, including a week-long Governor's Institute of Entrepreneurship, and a two-day teacher training in entrepreneurship in the career and technical high school located near the VtSBDC Lead Center. The team assembled for the Portable Assistance project will hit the ground running and provide benefits to the impacted region immediately.