In recognition of the need for enhanced representation of the business community in Burlington’s troublrf downtown environment, a regional business organization has launched its own advocacy initiative.

The Lake Champlain Chamber (LCC) last month announced the launch of Downtown Business Alliance (DBA), a new advocacy and engagement initiative dedicated to strengthening the economic health and vibrancy of Burlington. Operating as a specialized division within the Chamber, the Downtown Business Alliance serves as a vital bridge between the local business community and city leadership.

The initiative comes at a critical time for the region, as businesses navigate challenges related to public safety, downtown disorder, and economic predictability. The Downtown Business Alliance is designed to ensure that the employers and creators who drive the city’s economy have a dedicated seat at the table during municipal and state-level policy discussions.

“Burlington Businesses need a strong voice to advocate for Downtown now more than ever,” said Ryan Nick of J.L. Davis Realty. “The Lake Champlain Chamber, through the Downtown Business Alliance, will help us navigate through these challenging times and help our community restore our vitality, attract Vermonters to a thriving downtown, and help Burlington remain an economic leader in the State of Vermont.”

“There is a real need for business driven advocacy in Burlington and the Chamber is happy to answer the call and make this strategic investment in Burlington. The Downtown Business Alliance represents our commitment to a city we believe in,” said Catherine Z. Davis, president and CEO of the Lake Champlain Chamber. “This initiative is about championing our business community and harnessing our collective action to create change and restore confidence in downtown Burlington as a premier place to live, work, and invest”.

As part of the launch, the Chamber is establishing a Downtown Business Alliance Advisory Board to guide policy positions and identify key priorities. 

“The Lake Champlain Chamber has always been an important partner working to advance Burlington businesses, and we are pleased to see their work enhanced with a dedicated division focused on advocacy,” said Leslee MacKenzie, president and owner of Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman.

The Chamber features a manager-level role to serve as the Chamber’s primary voice for local commerce, responsible for monitoring municipal ordinances, analyzing regulatory changes, and representing the business community before the Burlington City Council and other public forums.