What We Do

VBSR is a non-profit, statewide business organization. We help our members to set a high standard for protecting the natural, human, and economic environments of our citizens while remaining profitable. We are the oldest and largest regional association of values-led businesses in the country.

Who Belongs

Over 650 businesses representing all sectors of the Vermont economy belong to VBSR. Collectively they employ more than 35,000 people and account for $4.0 billion in annual sales.

To get an clearer picture of the businesses who belong to VBSR, check out our Member Directory.

Our Work 

Public Policy 

VBSR works actively to influence public policy in Montpelier. Our full-time lobbyist (the Public Policy Coordinator) works with members, legislators, coalition partners and government officials on issues of interest to small and large business. Typically we work to improve:

• workplace quality,
  
• environmental quality,
  
• energy security, and
  
• sustainable economic development.

Check out the Public Policy Blog or the policy Issues page to see the work we're currently doing.

Education 

Education is the second cornerstone of our programs. We hold two major conferences a year and many smaller educational gatherings.

• The emphasis is on sharing knowledge about how to run a company according to the multiple bottom line. 
  
• The goal is to respect the environment, our employees, and the wider community while making a profit.

We also provide many concrete resources to help our members make their businesses more socially responsible.

Networking

VBSR works to facilitate the exchange of information between our members, but we also work to promote business between members, and encourage the growth of a vital socially responsible economy. All of our events include time for informal mixing and networking. Members share information about which ideas have worked well, and which haven't, as they work to run their businesses with multiple bottom lines. They also have the chance to make business connections with other VBSR members, and to simply socialize with like-minded business people.

Want to make your business more visible to other members, as well as the general public? Check out our sponsorship opportunities.