ClimateReadyVT

Building Resilient Vermont Businesses

After Vermont faced the devastating floods of July 2023, VBSR launched ClimateReadyVT in partnership with ReFrame Lab. This groundbreaking, free program is designed to help small businesses across Vermont adapt to our changing climate and build resilience against climate-related business interruptions. The inaugural cohort, which began in early November, continues to engage and learn through the spring of 2024.

Leveraging Decades of Climate Advocacy

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in developing public policy and educational programming for climate mitigation, VBSR is at the forefront of this vital mission. We are uniquely positioned to address a critical challenge of our times: responding swiftly and effectively to the impacts of climate change on Vermont’s small businesses and the broader economy.

Supporting Small Business through Challenges

The significance of small businesses in Vermont’s economy cannot be underestimated. They have faced disproportionate impacts from natural disasters, climate-related public health threats, and severe weather, especially in our rural communities.

With ClimateReadyVT, offered free of charge, we aim to support these vital businesses that provide essential goods, services, and local jobs. This support is crucial in bolstering the vitality of our communities and maintaining a robust local economy.

Our commitment extends to advancing climate justice, supporting our members—most of whom have fewer than 50 employees—and fostering sustainable economic development in Vermont.

Join a ClimateReadyVT Cohort

Interested in being part of this transformative experience? Businesses interested in joining additional cohorts should contact Molly Rand, VBSR’s Education and Events Manager, at mollyr@vbsr.org.

I WANT TO JOIN A COHORT!

Building a Climate-Smart Future Together

ClimateReadyVT welcomes any Vermont-based business with 50 or fewer employees seeking to adapt to the changing climate and prepare for future climate-related disruptions. Participants benefit from:

  • Expert facilitation
  • A community of peers
  • Leading-edge resources
  • A network of business support organizations

Participants in the program will engage in:

  • Eight dynamic virtual sessions and one inspiring in-person gathering, small businesses embark on a journey to resilience.

  • Completing a climate risk assessment and identifying hazard mitigation strategies.

  • Unlocking government resources & professional services.

  • Learning how best to support their teams during business disruptions.

  • Discovering tools & methods for sustaining mental health and wellness.

Stepping Into a Sustainable Future

By the end of the program, participants will have developed a customized “RoadMap to Resilience.” This plan will position their business as a leader in Vermont's climate-smart future, ready to face and adapt to the challenges ahead.