Advocacy in the shires

We believe that our partnerships with local, regional and state stakeholders provides us with the ability to influence, change and grow our economic and community outcomes.

Facilitating, leading and communicating to our legislative leaders what our members and community needs when it comes to small business reform, economic challenges, educational opportunities and creating a healthy community is a pillar of why this Chamber exists.

We also believe that we can provide the best pathways to important information that is crucial to today’s businesses and politics.

Whether it’s our access to legislators and lawmakers for our members, getting national attention about our misplace location on Google Maps, a member struggling with a unlawful accusation, our relationships with key subject matter experts in various industries or the intelligence of our staff and board, we are the go-to, one-stop-shop for both business and community leaders for keeping up to date on the things that matter.

Sign up for our “Mondays Matter” Advocacy Newsletter

Stay Informed. Stay Engaged. Make Mondays Matter.

In collaboration with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, we are excited to offer our legislative e-newsletter “Mondays Matter,” a fast and focused e-newsletter delivering essential updates straight from the Vermont Legislature. Released every Monday during the legislative session, this concise briefing ensures that business and nonprofit leaders stay ahead of key policy developments that impact their organizations, communities, and Vermont’s economic future.

From critical discussions on taxation and workforce development to emerging legislation on housing, energy, and economic growth, Mondays Matter translates complex policy decisions into actionable insights—empowering you to advocate, adapt, and make informed decisions.

Subscribe today to stay engaged, amplify your voice, and be part of shaping Vermont’s future.

VT AG Consumer Assistance Partnership

The Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) recently hired Emily McDonnell to fill the role of Small Business Advocate. The Small Business Advocate serves as an integral part of CAP and the Small Business Initiative by providing support to businesses with questions about Vermont’s legal requirements and assisting in resolving complaints from business consumers.

The Southwestern Vermont Chamber is a partner with CAP and their efforts to provide our small business members with information and answer questions. Although CAP cannot provide legal advice, it can provide small businesses with information and answers to common questions in the business as consumer domain. If you have a consumer related complaint against another business, a question about the culture of compliance, or are looking for the correct resource for your business inquiry, reach out to Emily at the Consumer Assistance Program at (800) 649-2424 or by emailing AGO.Small.Business@vermont.gov.