GROW Vermont Relocation Assistance
Interested in making the moving to the Upper Valley of Vermont?
Already moved here and looking for resources?
We can help!
Overview
As part of a statewide network to attract and retain Vermont residents, Green Mountain Economic Development Corporation is participating in Think Vermont’s GROW program, funded by the Vermont legislature as part of the Department of Tourism and Marketing.
GMEDC will provide one-on-one support to individuals who are looking to move to the Upper Valley of Vermont, along with events and programs for newcomers through our local chapter of the Vermont Welcome Wagon Project. Relocation resources and other information related to living/working/playing in the Upper Valley can be found here.
We’ll also be strategically connecting new and potential residents with partners for:
- Employment opportunities
- Rentals and home-buying searches
- Ways to volunteer and get involved locally
- Small business & entrepreneurship resources
- … and help with figuring out specific town or municipal services!
Staff Contact: James Coleman, Jr
why Choose VT?
Ranked #1 in Opportunity*
With a culture focused on health and sustainability and unparalleled access to some of the East’s finest outdoor recreation, there are more than just a few reasons to make the move to Vermont. Life in Vermont offers unique combination of rural sensibilities and metropolitan opportunities that surrounds people with a strong sense of community.
*According to
US News & World Reports - Best States
GROW Program FAQs
Which towns does GMEDC work with?
View our Member TownsWith our office located in Downtown White River Junction, the GMEDC service region encompasses thirty townships in east central Vermont. The eastern border of the region includes the “Upper Valley” of the Connecticut River with its fertile bottom lands. To the west, rolling hills and pristine mountain streams extend to the foot of the Green Mountains.
I think I'd like to move to Vermont, but how do I start the process?
You've come to the right place! Everyone's relocation journey is different depending on their individual circumstances and goals, which is why we offer one-on-one assistance to help you on your path to the Green Mountain State. If you're interested in becoming a Vermonter but don't know where to begin, please reach out so we can connect you with resources that fit your needs. In the meantime, check out this episode of the Brave Little State podcast, "What Do I Need to Know About Moving to Vermont?"
Can you help me find housing?
Yes! As is the case in many communities across the country, housing access and afforability can make the process of relocating to Vermont difficult. Despite these challenges, we can help connect you with local real estate agents, landlords, and housing organizations to make the process a bit more manageable.
Are you able to provide employment referrals?
Definitely! As one of twelve regional development corperations (RDCs) across the Vermont, we have built relationships with many area employers both big and small, most of which are currently hiring. We're also able to connect you with state employment resources including career navigation, resume building, and more, through our local Department of Labor field office in WRJ, VT.
Do you offer any direct financial relocation assistance?
Unfortunately, the GROW program does not provide any direct financial assistance to participants.
I already moved here, where can I find community resources?
Download Resource GuideFirst off, welcome to Vermont! We've put together a community resource guide with links to everything you might be curious about (see download below) which is a good place to start. If you're interested in getting connected to someone else in your community, feel free to reach out to us or sign up to join the Upper Valley Welcome Wagon!
Become a GROW Partner
We’re all involved in the welcome… send your new residents, employees, and neighbors our way for help getting settled in the region.
Below are some other ways to help ease the transition for new Vermonters:
Towns
- Make sure your town website has a “New here?” page with basic information on utilities, communications, and annual town events
- Add a profiles section to the town newsletter to introduce newcomers
Employers
- Ask new hires about their family’s needs – Does their spouse need a job? Can you introduce them to their children’s new principal?
- Give folks extra time to relocate before starting work
Landlords & Realtors
- Introduce new residents to other people you know on their street
- Show new residents the town office and website and explain what’s available there
Chambers and Downtown Orgs
- Send new residents a welcome packet
- Partner with us to host welcome events for newcomers
Professional Networks
- Interested in Upper Valley Young Professionals or Vermont Professionals of Color Network? We are happy to connect you with our partners!
- Let us know if you are part of any other professional networks and would like to collaborate
Individuals & Community Orgs
- Sign up to be a Welcome Wagon host
- Invite a new colleague or neighbor to a community event
- Learn more about Vermont’s population shortage and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development’s efforts to address it
GROW Program Coordinator
James Coleman
Born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, James is thrilled to now live in Vermont and is excited to build connections with local businesses, community organizations, and residents of the Upper Valley. As part of the GROW program, he will be hosting the Upper Valley Welcome Wagon which connects newcomers with locals to help introduce them to our vibrant Vermont communities.
In his spare time, James enjoys meeting new people, going for hikes, skiing & snowboarding, and snapping photos of Vermont's incredibly beautiful natural wonders.
Photography by Jeff Lewis
The work of Green Mountain Economic Development Corporation is made possible in part by a grant from the State of Vermont through the Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
