Attorney General Charity Clark has emphasized the support available to Vermont businesses through her office's Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) during National Small Business Week. CAP's Small Business Initiative is designed to help both businesses and consumers resolve complaints, connect with resources, and answer questions from business owners.
Vermont stands out as one of the few states where businesses are considered consumers under consumer protection laws. This means that when a business makes a purchase outside its regular operations, such as buying supplies or food for an event, it is treated as a consumer. CAP plays a role in mediating disputes and providing relief to small businesses facing issues. The program also offers education on various topics like auto issues and works to prevent scams targeting businesses.
Attorney General Clark stated, "As Vermonters, we know that small businesses are the backbone of our downtowns and economy. National Small Business Week is a great time to shop, visit, and support each other at the local level." She further encouraged small business owners needing assistance to reach out to the Small Business Initiative.
For those seeking help, CAP can be contacted at 800-649-2424 or via email at ago.cap@vermont.gov. The call for local support during National Small Business Week underscores the importance of shopping locally and supporting the state's small businesses.