Burlington, VT–Vermont stands at a pivotal moment — with decisions about housing, infrastructure, and growth shaping the state’s communities for decades to come. On October 30, more than 300 professionals from across the development, business, and policy spectrum will gather at Hotel Champlain in Burlington for the 11th Annual Vermont Development Conference (VDC), hosted by White + Burke Real Estate Advisors.
This year’s theme, “State at a Crossroads,” underscores the urgency of Vermont’s development challenges. The one-day conference will convene leaders in real estate, planning, construction, finance, energy, law, and government for candid debate, collaborative dialogue, and actionable ideas to address the state’s most pressing issues — from its deepening housing crisis to the need for sustainable infrastructure investment.
Debate and Dialogue on Vermont’s Future
The 2025 program is designed as a forum for open discussion and fresh thinking rather than a traditional series of presentations. Key sessions will include:
Housing at the Breaking Point – As Vermont faces one of the most acute housing shortages in its history, panelists will explore how the state’s new $2 billion Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) can transform development — if local governments and private developers can effectively collaborate.
Financing Vermont’s Future – Keynote speaker Toby Rittner, president and CEO of the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA), will outline tools and strategies — from tax credits to opportunity zones — that can unlock new investment in housing, infrastructure, and community revitalization.
Debating Vermont’s Growth Path – Thought leaders from the University of Vermont, the Vermont Futures Project, and state agencies will lead a candid discussion on the long-term vision for Vermont’s growth and what policies are needed to get there.
Practical Strategies for Developers
Beyond policy discussions, the conference will offer hands-on sessions focused on real-world project success. Attendees will gain insights on:
- Cost-saving strategies amid global supply challenges and tariffs
- Case studies from projects such as Weidmann Electrical’s expansion and The Orchards Resort
- Town-led development models that demonstrate how municipalities can accelerate permitting and support smart growth
- Permitting and land-use law updates, plus innovative approaches such as pre-approved housing designs and off-site construction techniques
Fostering Real Conversations
“Vermont is at a crossroads,” said Stephanie Clarke, vice president of White + Burke. “We want this conference to go beyond presentations and an echo chamber of similar ideas. Our goal is to spark genuine debate and conversations that move us toward real solutions.”
Event Details: 11th Annual Vermont Development Conference
Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Hotel Champlain Burlington, 60 Battery Street, Burlington, VT
Audience: Developers, planners, architects, engineers, lenders, attorneys, policymakers, and community leaders
Tickets: Register at whiteandburke.com/events/vt-development-conference
Admission: $195
