More than 300 business leaders, developers, and policymakers will convene in Burlington on October 30 for the 11th Annual Vermont Development Conference. The event aims to address the state's pressing challenges, focusing on a severe housing shortage and the future of infrastructure investment.
Hosted by White + Burke Real Estate Advisors at the Hotel Champlain, this year's conference is themed "State at a Crossroads," highlighting the critical decisions facing Vermont. The full-day summit is designed to foster debate and find actionable solutions to guide the state's economic and community development for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- The 11th Annual Vermont Development Conference will take place on October 30, 2025, in Burlington.
- The central theme is "State at a Crossroads," focusing on Vermont's housing crisis, infrastructure needs, and growth strategy.
- A major topic will be the implementation of the new $2 billion Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP).
- The conference aims to spark genuine debate among developers, government officials, and financial experts to create tangible solutions.
A State Facing Critical Decisions
Vermont currently stands at a pivotal moment, grappling with one of the most significant housing shortages in its history alongside the need for substantial infrastructure upgrades. These issues form the backbone of the upcoming conference, which will bring together a diverse group of professionals from real estate, construction, finance, law, and government.
The event is structured to move beyond traditional presentations and encourage direct conversations about the state's future. The goal is to create a forum where difficult questions about Vermont's growth trajectory can be openly discussed by the people responsible for shaping it.
Why This Matters Now
Decisions made today regarding housing development, infrastructure spending, and land-use policies will have long-lasting effects on Vermont's communities, economy, and quality of life. The conference serves as a crucial platform for aligning public and private sector efforts to ensure sustainable and equitable growth.
Housing and Finance at the Forefront
A significant portion of the agenda is dedicated to Vermont's housing crisis. A key session, titled "Housing at the Breaking Point," will examine how the state's new $2 billion Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) can be effectively utilized. Panelists will explore the necessary collaboration between local governments and private developers to translate this funding into new homes.
Financing these ambitious projects is another central theme. Toby Rittner, president and CEO of the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA), will deliver the keynote address. His presentation, "Financing Vermont’s Future," will outline creative financial tools that can unlock new investment in the state.
Financial Tools on the Table: The conference will explore various investment mechanisms, including tax credits, opportunity zones, and other public-private partnership models to fund housing and community revitalization projects.
Another high-level discussion, "Debating Vermont’s Growth Path," will feature thought leaders from the University of Vermont, the Vermont Futures Project, and state agencies. This session will address the long-term vision for Vermont and the policies required to achieve sustainable economic expansion.
Practical Strategies for a Challenging Market
Beyond broad policy discussions, the conference will offer practical, hands-on sessions for attendees. These workshops are designed to provide real-world strategies for navigating the current development landscape, which is marked by supply chain issues and rising costs.
Topics will include:
- Cost-saving strategies to manage expenses amid global supply challenges and tariffs.
- Innovative construction methods such as pre-approved housing designs and off-site building techniques to accelerate development.
- Updates on permitting and land-use laws to help developers navigate the regulatory environment more efficiently.
The conference will also showcase successful projects through case studies. Examples include the expansion of Weidmann Electrical and the development of The Orchards Resort, providing attendees with tangible examples of successful growth. Additionally, sessions will highlight town-led development models that demonstrate how municipalities can proactively support smart growth and streamline the permitting process.
A Call for Genuine Debate
Organizers emphasize that the conference's primary objective is to generate meaningful dialogue that leads to concrete action. The format is intentionally designed to challenge conventional thinking and avoid becoming an "echo chamber" of familiar ideas.
"Vermont is at a crossroads. We want this conference to go beyond presentations and an echo chamber of similar ideas. Our goal is to spark genuine debate and conversations that move us toward real solutions."
This approach underscores the urgency of the situation. By bringing together diverse perspectives from across the development spectrum, the event aims to build consensus and momentum for policies and projects that can address Vermont's most pressing needs.
The 11th Annual Vermont Development Conference is scheduled for Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Hotel Champlain in Burlington. Tickets are available for $195.
