VOBA’S BASECAMP Resources and Technical Assistance Initiative

VOBA launched BASECAMP VT, a resource and technical assistance initiative in August 2020, deepening VOBA’s networking, education, and business support to businesses and nonprofit organizations in the time of COVID-19. Industry support services include connecting economic recovery and social resources to the sector and a series of virtual networking events.

Outdoor Recreation Economy Resources and Technical Assistance

BASECAMP VT will connect businesses and professionals with the resources needed in order to stabilize and strengthen the financial and market position of companies and the employment and development of workers. VOBA will:

1. Research the needs of outdoor recreation businesses and professionals through data collection and interviews;

2. Update the VOBA Blueprint for Outdoor Businesses, a comprehensive online directory of support, services, and funding;

3. Host networking events to foster dialogue, build relationships, and exchange information; and,

4. Continue communications of the availability of resources.

Outdoor Recreation Economy Business Sector Development

BASECAMP VT will facilitate connectivity and collaboration designed to advance strategies for businesses pivoting their business to new product and market opportunities, entrepreneurs starting new businesses, and professionals seeking jobs or skills in the industry. Activities:

• Administer a workforce hiring, training/education, or employee support tool

• Organize peer-networking activities with mentorships in order to provide leadership support, exchange information, and foster business-to-business/organizational collaborations

• Organize collaborations that advance a key strategy for start ups/ new markets and/or supply chain pivots

Outdoor Recreation Economy Marketing

EXPLORE VT will facilitate branding partnerships and access to messaging tools in order to drive economic activity to outdoor businesses in rural communities and recruit entrepreneurs and workers to the outdoor industry. 

VOBA will engage outdoor recreation businesses in partnerships with nonprofit and state/municipal recreation managers in the development of a ” new” story about Vermont’s people and places and the products and services that deliver safe and quality experiences for those participating in the outdoors. Activities:

• Organize outdoor companies to participate in collective branding, business patronage, and nonprofit sponsorship efforts that develop messaging tools and product and service packages for recreating safely and shopping locally.

• Organize businesses in a media campaign to highlight recreation assets and entrepreneurs in outdoor hubs by producing testimonials and short videos to recruit and connect recreationists interested in entrepreneurship and employment.