The Science and Technology Research Initiative for the Vermont Economy

08/24/2026

A recent survey from the University of New Hampshire found that nearly one-quarter of New Hampshire residents are considering moving out of the Granite State.

New Hampshire isn’t alone. Vermont and communities across New England are facing similar challenges: retaining residents, attracting new talent, and creating opportunities that encourage people to build their futures here.

Addressing this challenge means investing in the people, education, research, and innovation that help rural communities thrive—and creating pathways for students and workers to see a future for themselves right here in New England.

This is at the core of STRIVE’s mission, but we can’t do it alone.

It will take innovative housing solutions, dedicated industry leaders, and the creativity and vision of young Vermonters to shape a state where they can see themselves building a life 5, 20, or even 50 years from now. Thinking globally and acting locally, we can build a Vermont where the next generation has both the opportunity and the desire to stay.

How do we make New England a place where people want to stay, return, and build their futures? Comment below

Researchers found that a multitude of factors influence whether or not people stay in the state.

08/21/2026

🌱 INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY: Research + Sustainable Agriculture

Interested in environmental engineering, biological systems, or sustainable agriculture? The Rich Earth Institute is seeking a motivated intern to support hands-on research into an innovative nutrient recovery technology.

The project explores a biological reactor that transforms nitrogen-rich waste streams—including human urine and liquid dairy manure digestate—into a stable, odorless liquid fertilizer. 🧪🌾

As an intern, you’ll gain experience in:
🔬 Laboratory research
🧪 Experimental design
🌱 Sustainable agriculture
💧 Water quality & nutrient management
♻️ Circular nutrient systems

This is a great opportunity to contribute to real-world research developing more sustainable approaches to agriculture and nutrient recovery.

$5,768 stipend for 400 hours

To learn more or apply email [email protected]. Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience

08/18/2026

Vermont Was Building the Future in 1837 ⚡

Vermont has a long history of innovation—and one Vermont inventor was thinking far ahead of his time.

Born in Williamstown, Thomas Davenport was a blacksmith who became fascinated by the emerging science of electromagnetism. After seeing a powerful electromagnet being used to separate iron ore at an ironworks in New York, Davenport began experimenting with how that same force could be harnessed to create continuous motion.

Working with electromagnets, batteries, and a series of increasingly sophisticated designs, Davenport developed an electric motor. In 1837, he received U.S. Patent No. 132—the first U.S. patent issued for an electric motor.

Davenport didn't stop there. He experimented with using his motors to power machinery and even model trains, imagining a future in which electricity could drive transportation and industry. His work would eventually be applied to electric locomotion, including trolleys.

It’s a reminder that big ideas can come from small towns.

Today, Vermont continues to be home to creative thinkers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and innovators working to solve the challenges of the past, present, and future.

🔎 Want to see Davenport’s invention for yourself? Check out this short video from the Vermont Historical Society exploring the inventor, his motor, and its legacy.

08/17/2026

What do you find between a rock and a hard place? One of the smallest woody shrubs in existence! 🌱🪨

The dwarf willow has only been found on Mt. Marcy and Algonquin Peak in the Adirondacks of upstate New York. But research on this tiny, tenacious shrub could help guide alpine conservation across the Northeast.

In collaboration with researchers from the Appalachian Mountain Club, researchers from the University of Vermont, University of Maine, and Bennington College are studying alpine ecosystems to better understand how they’ve adapted to changing climates—and what their future might look like.

A tiny plant, a big research question, and a great example of how Vermont researchers are contributing to regional science and conservation. 🏔️🔬

Definitely worth the read:

Tucked into a small niche beside a pair of tower­ing boulders on the slope of Mount Marcy’s sum­mit cone, one of New York’s rarest plants takes up a small slice of alpine soil. The unas­sum­ing dwarf wil­low is only known to exist on Marcy and...

08/14/2026

This week, we were welcomed to join NH LIFT for their second annual summit in Manchester, NH. In a short time, this multi-institution E-CORE has made impressive strides in supporting New Hampshire faculty and students—from increasing access to research equipment through their RINS program, to supporting undergraduate research experiences, to building momentum toward additional awards.

We’re grateful to NH LIFT for having us and for the opportunity to learn from their work. We left inspired, motivated, and excited about what’s possible through collaboration across institutions.

08/05/2026

Although wafer technologies may sound delicious, they're actually the focus of $300 million in new federal funding coming to Vermont's GlobalFoundries.

Through the CHIPS and Science Act, GlobalFoundries will develop the next generation of silicon photonics wafer technologies—an innovation that could make AI data centers significantly more energy efficient as demand for computing power continues to grow.

Read more to learn how advances like this are helping shape the future of AI, semiconductor manufacturing, and innovation in Vermont.

https://www.welch.senate.gov/welch-celebrates-300-million-in-new-federal-funding-for-vermonts-globalfoundries-to-help-make-ai-more-energy-efficient-create-jobs/

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) celebrated the announcement of $300 million in new federal funding for Vermont’s GlobalFoundries. This federal investment, funded through the Biden Administration’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act and administered by the ...

07/31/2026

Big ideas don't always need big budgets.

The STRIVE STEAD Awards provide up to $2,500 to help Vermont educators and community organizations create engaging STEM learning experiences.

Whether you're planning a field investigation, purchasing classroom materials, hosting a STEM event, or launching a new program, STEAD can help turn your idea into reality.

📅 Applications close August 15

Learn more and apply at strivevt.org/application/