As seen in the Vermont Business Magazine
Vermont will host the Catalysts of the Climate Economy (cc:econ), a three-day national innovation summit on September 6-8. Taking place at the University of Vermont in Burlington, the summit brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders working to accelerate economic development by addressing climate change. Speakers at cc:econ will include Mary Powell, CEO of Green Mountain Power, and John Replogle, CEO of Seventh Generation. The summit will also feature an innovation and pitch contest for entrepreneurs, and innovation tours at exemplary Vermont locations guided by summit speakers and other changemakers.
“Economic development and climate action are not mutually exclusive, and identifying opportunities to support the state’s commitment to environmental stewardship in a way that helps create jobs, grow the economy and support all Vermonters is tremendously valuable,” said Vermont Governor Phil Scott, who recently issued an Executive Order creating the Vermont Climate Action Commission, and was one of the original signors of the U.S. Climate Alliance. “The leadership and ingenuity of Vermont businesses has sparked tremendous growth of renewable energy jobs in Vermont. We are pleased to host this national gathering of thought leaders who are intent on addressing climate change and supporting economic development.”
“Businesses throughout America today are innovating in energy, efficiencies, and in developing new goods and services that will be competitive in answering the challenges climate change presents,” said Paul Costello, Executive Director for the Vermont Council on Rural Development. “The Catalysts of the Climate Economy’ summit will celebrate creative problem solvers and consider ways to stimulate economic activity that reduces carbon and other greenhouse gases while boosting public health, convenience and prosperity in the future.”
Registration details and other information including the full schedule, speaker lineup, and more can be found at https://www.ccecon17.com (link is external).
The summit is produced by the Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD). From local, citizen-led efforts to policy councils that build collaboration between state, federal, nonprofit, and private sector leaders, VCRD brings Vermonters together across political lines and organizational boundaries to create a better future.
The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) is a Platinum Sponsor of the Catalysts of the Climate Economy Summit. The mission for ACCD is to help Vermonters improve their quality of life and build strong communities. ACCD is comprised of four Departments: the Department of Economic Development (DED); the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD); the Department of Administration which includes the Office of the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), and the Division of the Vermont Center for Geographic Information (VCGI); and the Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) which also includes Vermont Life Magazine. The Agency reports annually to the Legislature on activities and outcomes.