Click on above header to go to blog entry regarding the interview and to watch the clip.

Businesses are in Vermont for the simple reason they want to be. Businesses do not typically locate in Vermont because costs are low or the resources they need for their work are here — mines or ports for instance. Of course many are: Omya, Rock of Ages, etc. For the most part, though, businesses locate in Vermont because of Vermont. The one factor cost which could drive them away is taxes.

Here is a scenario: A young couple starts a small business with a unique position in an industry. It becomes a labor of love. They are on the cutting edge in the industry and become experts. They take care of their employees, inspire deep loyalty, and they each occupy a hallowed place in the business as it grows. The founders’ personas become so embedded that in reality the mission of the business is simply to support the founders as they grow the business. What needs to happen to preserve and grow this success?