Planning, Research, & Analysis

COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS conducts research on issues including public and private sector financing; management and administration of public funds; historic preservation and Main Street issues; and distance learning strategies.

Vermont Technology Incubator @ Essex (VTI@E): COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS conducted a project feasibility and market study and developed THE business plan for the VTI@E.  The final report includes recommendations for management and establishment of a nonprofit organization to own and operate THE incubator, a system of business and technical support services, a schedule for development of the facility and related laboratories, and a fundraising strategy for the project. CI secured the grant funds required to develop Phase I of the project.

New York Society of Securities Analysts (NYSSA): COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS worked with the New York-based consulting firm of sharpflat.com to analyze and make recommendations for converting NYSSA's current certification training to a web-based program conducted in conjunction with an established training provider.  The feasibility study assessed current potential partners, determined the costs and rewards of developing the program, made recommendations for development of a for-profit subsidiary to host the program.

Vermont Community Development Program: COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS was chosen by the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development to re-vamp the Grants Management Guide used by the Vermont Community Development Program in administering its community development block grant program. The project included development of a training video, on-line electronic availability, and training. CI assembled a team consisting of marketing and public relations professionals, a videographer, and web site designer. This project was completed in the fall of 1998.

Vermont Economic Development Authority: COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS assisted the Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) and the Vermont Economic Progress Council in developing a plan for re-capitalizing VEDA by researching the programs and policies of the state development finance agencies in 18 states. Information gathered through this process provided the rationale for VEDA to become self-sustaining through the sale of revenue bonds.