Infrastructure is one of the biggest barriers to housing development in Vermont. The Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) provides a scalable, municipality-driven solution to this challenge and will help municipalities make the investments needed to support the creation of primary residences throughout all of Vermont.
This three-part webinar series (via Zoom), a partnership of the Vermont Economic Progress Council (VEPC) and the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA), will help local leaders understand how tax increment financing (TIF) works and supports community investment. This series explores the steps local municipalities should take to implement the new Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) and is designed for first-time learners and local leaders to lay the foundation for responsibly putting this tool into action.
Register in advance to confirm your participation and receive login information. Registration is free and open for CDFA members and non-members.
Thursday, January 8, 2026, 2:00-3:30 PM
Understanding TIF: Intro to Tax Increment Finance for Vermont Communities
This introductory session will equip Vermont communities and local economic development professionals with a clear foundation to tax increment financing (TIF) in preparation for the state’s new Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP). It will focus on understanding the basics of Tax Increment Financing and why communities use it to achieve economic development objectives. Participants will leave with a practical understanding of the tool’s benefits, core mechanics, and national case studies.
Moderator(s): Toby Rittner, President & CEO, Council of Development Finance Agencies
Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 2:00-3:30 PM
In Practice: Targeted Tools in Infrastructure and Housing Development
The second installment of this series will spotlight national case studies of communities that are leveraging Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to drive housing and infrastructure development. By exploring both the successes and challenges of TIF projects nationwide, Vermont communities can gain practical insight into how others have structured deals, aligned housing and infrastructure goals, and built partnerships that support housing development.
Moderator: Toby Rittner, President & CEO, Council of Development Finance Agencies
Thursday, January 15, 2026, 2:00-3:30 PM
Implementing CHIP: Rules, Requirements & Readiness
The final installment of this series will dive into the technical details of Vermont’s new Community and Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP). Participants will explore the framework, eligibility criteria, and procedural steps that shape the program. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of application and approval requirements, compliance obligations, and key readiness considerations for completing projects. The session will also highlight strategies for building community buy-in and sustaining local support to reflect shared priorities and deliver long-term impact. Vermont municipalities will leave this session empowered to responsibly plan and advance housing projects using this innovative tool.
Moderator: Toby Rittner, President & CEO, Council of Development Finance Agencies