Silicon Valley, Boston, New York City. Sequoia, Lightspeed, Catalyst. The best of the best, the most prestigious, largest networks, and a seemingly infinite amount of puffer vests. How could the tiny little state of Vermont ever compete?
I remember the first pitch meeting I sat in on with the team— it was a biotech founder with deep ties to local universities and organizations. What struck me wasn’t just the science or the vision for the company, but how naturally everything came together. Investors, community partners, and even state leaders were all part of the same conversation. It was the perfect snapshot of Vermont’s ecosystem in action; I learned that the answer is right in front of us.
What makes Vermont unique is exactly what top players all across the globe often struggle with. It’s the impact, vision, and community— values that have been embedded from the very beginning. While many out west chase returns, Vermont does things differently. Yes, financial outcomes matter, but there’s so much more to seek and protect than just the bottom line.
Purposeful. Collaborative. Accessible. Those are three words I’d use to describe venture capital in Vermont. Purposeful reflects the shared mission that drives local funds: invest in Vermont companies, grow the local economy, create jobs, and retain talent. Again, this isn’t just about returns— it’s about building a bright future state. Collaborative speaks to the spirit of our community. In Vermont we show up as peers. There’s a culture of generosity and support here. Accessible sums it all up. Our venture ecosystem isn’t typical— and that’s the point. We aren't siloed in the traditional venture world here. We engage deeply with community partners, accelerators, universities and social organizations using our networks as platforms for impact. I don’t know of any other places in the world, especially big cities, where you can walk into a building and with ease be meeting with anyone from top venture funds to the state's governing officials.
Summary courtesy of The Fund at Hula
Throughout the state, there are numerous financial players fueling the next generation of startups from the mighty “city” of Burlington, to rural towns that aren’t on most people’s radars. At the Fund at Hula, we’re fortunate to engage with members everyday, learning about their ideas, passions, and networks— finding ways to help one another grow. We regularly partner and co-invest with incredible local venture funds like Freshtracks Capital, The Dudley Fund, VCET, Features Capital, and others who share the bigger vision. It’s been so inspiring to witness the level of innovation and technology emerging from this little corner of the world.
I say this with complete confidence: this is the place to be right now. Vermont is home to a blooming startup ecosystem, a vibrant and supportive network. Let’s not forget the beautiful mountains and fall foliage we get to experience. What sets the venture scene apart in Vermont is the sincerity. From the moment you have an idea, we’re here for you— whether that means providing capital, making introductions, or just offering honest advice. The support runs deep because we genuinely care. To all the entrepreneurs and creators out there: keep going. Keep building, keep inspiring, and please— keep bringing your energy and talents to Vermont. We’re better because of you!
Vikyat Mulpuri is a Vermont native with passions for the intersection of product, technology, and business in the realm of entrepreneurship and venture. He is currently working at The Fund at Hula while studying Computer Science at the University of Vermont's College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences.
