MONTPELIER, Vt. — The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the complete agenda for the 2025 Vermont Economic Conference, to be held on Jan. 28 at the UVM Davis Center. Bringing together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and community members, this year’s conference explores national and global economic trends, examines their impacts on the Vermont economy through engaging presentations, expert-led discussions, and interactive sessions, and concludes with remarks from Congresswoman Becca Balint on key economic issues facing Vermonters.
Key conference highlights:
Fireside Chat on Innovation, Policy, and the Future of Vermont’s Economy
Venture capitalist, political strategist, philanthropist, and author Bradley Tusk joins Vermont Chamber of Commerce President, Amy Spear, for a fireside chat on the intersection of innovation, policy, and the future of Vermont’s economy.
State Economic Outlook
Mat Barewicz, Economic & Labor Market Information Chief at the Vermont Department of Labor, will offer a detailed analysis of Vermont’s economy. Barewicz will examine the latest labor market trends, pinpoint current challenges, and identify growth opportunities critical to shaping the state’s economic future.
National Economic Outlook
Gus Faucher, Chief Economist at The PNC Financial Services Group, will provide a comprehensive overview of key national economic trends, including labor market shifts, inflation, interest rates, Federal Reserve policies, consumer spending and the housing market. Faucher will also share expert insights on potential policy directions from the Trump administration, helping attendees understand the broader factors impacting the national economic landscape.
Women Shaping Vermont’s Economic Future Through Innovation & Leadership
This dynamic panel will spotlight the women entrepreneurs, executives and changemakers who are advancing Vermont’s economy through groundbreaking ideas, impactful community engagement and progressive leadership. Panelists will share their journeys — exploring how they’ve propelled business growth, fostered inclusive workplaces, and championed solutions that respond to Vermont’s unique economic opportunities and challenges. Moderated by Sheryl McQuade, regional president of Metro New England for TD Bank, the panel includes Cassie Polhemus of the Vermont Economic Development Authority, Corinne Prevot of Skida, and Lisa Keyser of Union Mutual Insurance Company.
Vermont’s Economic Future: The Release of the Statewide Economic Action Plan
Vermont’s future depends on people and places. Kevin Chu, executive director of the Vermont Futures Project, will lead an inspirational finale with the launch of the Statewide Economic Action Plan — a bold vision that establishes data-informed, long-term targets and outlines strategic solutions for a thriving economy and a more affordable future for our state.
“The Vermont Economic Conference offers critical insights and meaningful dialogue that will help shape our state’s economy,” said Amy Spear, president of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “From understanding national trends to amplifying local innovation, this event provides an invaluable platform for business and community leaders looking to foster a prosperous and resilient Vermont.”
VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce will also recognize Union Mutual Insurance Company as the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Outstanding Business of the Year Award. This award honors exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to Vermont’s business community.
Comcast, the Office of the State Treasurer, and TD Bank are presenting sponsors of the event. Additional support is provided by businesses committed to advancing the Vermont economy, including A.N. Deringer, KPMG, Union Mutual, Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA), Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO), Fidelity Investments, Green Mountain Power, Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer PC, VGS, and White + Burke Real Estate Advisors. For more information and to register for the 2025 Vermont Economic Conference, please visit vtchamber.com/economicconference.