www.vermontbiz.com/vermontbiz/business_info/pressreleas -
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Published on: 1/1/2002
Last Visited: 3/20/2008
"Collectively, our grantees are helping to build Vermont's green economy, from local food systems to sustainable forestry; renewable energy to green technologies; and business coaching for start-ups to CEO mentorship for growth stage companies," said Ellen Kahler, VSJF's Executive Director."Their combined efforts create local jobs, support community development initiatives, preserve resilient ecosystems, and fill special niches in the global economy."
Over 10 years ago, a successful group of entrepreneurs within Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility, began crafting legislation to launch an organization that could provide early stage funding and technical assistance to entrepreneurs, businesses, farmers, networks and others interested in developing a green economy.With bi-partisan support from the Vermont Legislature, the VSJF was created in 1995.The name of the organization reflects dual goals of accelerating the development of new markets for sustainably produced goods and investing in Vermont's future.In summing up VSJF's accomplishments, Kahler was clear that "the last 10 years of VSJF activities is really a testament to the inspiring, innovative and risk taking entrepreneurs and organizations that have created a vision for Vermont's collective future and invested themselves in bringing their ideas and passions to life."