The Lightning Jar named as a model of entrepreneurial innovation for Southern Vermont Economic Development Zone.

A new report highlighting the economic development challenges and proposed solutions for Southern Vermont identifies The Lightning Jar as a model of entrepreneurial collaboration and an example of public-private partnership to be emulated in other economic development initiatives for the region.

The Southern Vermont Economic Development Zone Committee, comprising local leaders from business, education and government, issued a report outlining some of the economic challenges facing the region, and outlined a vision and 5 recommendations for improving the economic viability of the region.

The 5 recommendations of the study include:

1. To spur business development in the Zone through an integrated strategy
2. Implement the Southern Vermont Sustainable Recruitment and Marketing Project.
3. Integrate workforce, education, internship and career development programs.
4. Create a private-public partnership to attract investment capital to the Zone.
5. Define the role of the Committee and/or other groups in continuing the work and its mission.

As part of Recommendation 4, the study states:

"The regions should encourage more collaborative co-working spaces and programs for entrepreneurs, students, and professionals, building on the model of the Lightning Jar, located in downtown Bennington."

The study's recommendation is fully aligned with the overall strategy that drove Bennington's community, in partnership with VSECU, to collaborate and create The Lightning Jar.  Our vision is to create a community and a network of resources promoting new business startups, growth of existing small businesses, and professional development.

Read the VT Digger story here, or download the full report here.