What We Do 

OUR FOCUS AREAS

To fulfill its mission, VHCDP works in three primary areas, which will continue to evolve over time:

 

Economic Diversification

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​Business Planning, Advising, and Support

• Support and encourage entrepreneurs interested in starting and expanding island businesses

• Develop and manage a program of volunteer business mentors 

• Support multi-business cross-collaborations​​​​​​

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Grant and Loan Program

• Connect emerging island businesses with grants and loans for business growth and career development

Sustainable Development​​

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Encourage investment initiatives supporting business development and community resources

• Coordinate with and provide information to investors, other groups, and non-profits seeking to stimulate economic development and community facilities that will benefit island residents

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Education and Engagement

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Online Resource Hub

• Develop an online resource hub of easy-to-access resources for business and career development

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Host and Facilitate Workshops and Events

• Facilitate and sponsor on-island workshops and training for career paths and new business development

 

School Partnerships

• Support the Vinalhaven School and Partners in Education to help connect local students with business/entrepreneurial opportunities and civic involvement, including apprenticeships, internships, mentoring, and job shadowing. ​​​​​​​​​