University campus in Vermont
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Information Technology Degree Programs in Vermont, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top information technology colleges in Vermont. 5 accredited information technology schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Community College of Vermont to Norwich University.

#1 ProgramNorwich
Avg Salary$98,760
Tuition From$6,720/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

3

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$98,760

Vermont median information technology salary

BLS OEWS 2024

79.1/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

13%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best information technology degree programs: Norwich, U of Vermont, Vermont State

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $6,720 to $47,640/year

Community College of Vermont offers the most affordable option at $6,720/yr

IPEDS 2024

Information Technology degree programs available: 2 associate's, 1 master's in Vermont

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

Vermont community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer, Faraday

Tech hubs in Burlington and Montpelier

Hakia Research 2026

Information Technology degree programs near 17+ cities across Vermont

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Vermont Information Technology programs

We rank 7 accredited information technology programs in Vermont using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Information Technology Degree Programs in Vermont Worth It?

Answer
$98,760
Yes. The best information technology degree programs in Vermont deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $98,760 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $25,497/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Information Technology Degree Rankings in Vermont

Compare the top-ranked Information Technology programs in Vermont by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Information Technology Programs in Vermont

1
Programs ranked
$10,344
Avg tuition/yr
47%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Vermont offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in information technology, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Community College of Vermont, Vermont State, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Vermont offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $8,352/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $54,318 in Vermont.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Vermont's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information technology schools in Vermont, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information technology degrees in Vermont.

Best Bachelor's Information Technology Programs in Vermont

1
Programs ranked
$10,344
Avg tuition/yr
47%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Vermont ranks among the nation's top destinations for information technology education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 2 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Norwich, U of Vermont, Vermont State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Vermont information technology programs earn a median salary of $83,946, 14% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $9,984 to $47,640 annually, with an average of $30,191/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 91%, with the highest reaching 91%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Vermont's leading technology employers. For students seeking information technology degrees in Vermont, these top-ranked information technology schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Best Master's Information Technology Programs in Vermont

1
Programs ranked
$47,400
Avg tuition/yr
65%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Vermont offers 1 master's degree programs in information technology, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Norwich, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Vermont earn a median salary of $98,760, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $46,860/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Vermont's information technology schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

🥇
Champlain College
Burlington, VTPrivate nonprofit
$47,400
Tuition/yr
65%
Grad rate
72.2
Hakia Score

Information Technology Degree Costs & Tuition in Vermont

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$25,497/year
Average out-of-state tuition$63,743/year
Community college tuition$6,374/year
4-year savings for residents$152,984
2+2 transfer pathway savings$38,246

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Technology Students in Vermont

State Aid Programs

Vermont residents pursuing Information Technology degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The Vermont Incentive Grant program provides need-based grants specifically for Vermont residents attending approved institutions, making it a critical resource for reducing out-of-pocket costs. To apply for federal aid, all students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities. The Vermont State Colleges System also participates in Vermont Transfer Agreements, which help reduce costs for students beginning at two-year institutions like Community College of Vermont before transferring to four-year programs.

Key Programs & Amounts

Individual institutions offer additional merit-based and need-based scholarships to attract talented IT students. When evaluating financial aid packages, prospective students should compare total cost of attendance across institutions and explore institutional aid offerings. The College Scorecard provides transparent data on average aid amounts and net price by institution. For more information about state-specific aid programs, visit the Vermont Incentive Grant website. Students should also investigate scholarships through professional organizations in information technology and cybersecurity fields, which often support undergraduate and graduate study. Learn more about related IT pathways through our guides on Cybersecurity in Vermont and Information Systems in Vermont.

Information Technology Degree ROI Calculator, Vermont

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information technology degree in Vermont. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Information Technology Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a information technology degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+692%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,279,487

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

6 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$114,286

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,314,895

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$120,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.1%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Information Technology Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Vermont metro areas

Burlington$109K
Montpelier$104K
Rutland$99K
View data table
CategoryValue
Burlington$109K
Montpelier$104K
Rutland$99K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Information Technology Graduates in Vermont

Find information technology jobs in Vermont. These major employers across Vermont metro areas are actively hiring information technology degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Information Technology Jobs in Burlington

VT
GlobalFoundries
semiconductor
Dealer.com
tech
Green Mountain Power
energy
University of Vermont
education

Transfer Pathways for Information Technology Degrees in Vermont

State Transfer System

Vermont's transfer system provides clear pathways for students beginning their Information Technology studies at community colleges and advancing to four-year institutions. The Vermont Transfer Agreements framework facilitates seamless credit transfer from Community College of Vermont to Vermont State University and other state colleges, eliminating duplicate coursework and reducing time-to-degree (Vermont Transfer Agreements). With 1 two-year institution (Community College of Vermont) and 5 four-year institutions offering bachelor's degrees in IT, the state supports a strong 2+2 model. Community College of Vermont's associate degree program, which awarded 13 completions in 2023, serves as a primary entry point for students seeking affordable foundational IT education before transferring to institutions like Vermont State University, home of 21 bachelor's degree completions.

How Transfers Work

Transfer students benefit from articulation agreements that guarantee junior-level standing upon admission to upper-level IT programs at four-year institutions, protecting both tuition investment and academic progress. The Vermont Incentive Grant continues to support transferred students who remain Vermont residents (Vermont VSAC), ensuring affordability throughout the degree pathway. Students transitioning from Community College of Vermont to Vermont State University (tuition $9,984) or other public four-year institutions experience minimal credential gaps. Advising centers at all participating institutions guide transfer course selection and timeline planning. For students exploring specialized career paths, consider related programs during your transfer planning through Information Systems in Vermont, Network Administration in Vermont, and Cloud Computing in Vermont.

Why Pursue an Information Technology Degree in Vermont?

Industry & Workforce

Vermont offers a growing landscape for Information Technology education with 8 institutions delivering programs across associate, bachelor, and master degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Vermont schools awarded 69 bachelor's degrees, 14 associate degrees, and 14 master's degrees in Information Technology, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to workforce development in this field. The state's strong higher education infrastructure includes both public and private institutions positioned in vibrant tech hubs like the Burlington-South Burlington metro area and Montpelier, creating direct pathways to employment with major employers including University of Vermont Medical Center, GlobalFoundries, and Vermont Health Care.

Salary Outlook

Affordability is a significant advantage for Vermont residents pursuing IT degrees. Public four-year institutions offer an average in-state tuition of $13,132, far below the national average, while the Vermont Incentive Grant provides need-based financial aid to residents at approved institutions (Vermont VSAC). Top-ranked programs like Norwich University and Vermont State University deliver rigorous curriculum paired with strong industry connections. Additionally, Vermont's quality of life, outdoor recreation, and emerging startup ecosystem attract both students and employers seeking innovation-focused talent. For comparative context on national opportunities, explore best IT bachelor's programs nationwide or most affordable IT programs nationally.

Information Technology Program Availability in Vermont

5 Programs
Vermont offers 5 accredited information technology programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Information Technology Job Market & Salary Data in Vermont

Employment Outlook

Vermont's information technology job market is supported by a diverse range of employers and growing demand across the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state offers competitive opportunities for IT professionals in major metropolitan areas including Burlington-South Burlington, Rutland, Montpelier, and Bennington. The Burlington-South Burlington metro area represents the strongest regional tech hub, with significant employment concentration in healthcare IT, manufacturing, and professional services sectors. Recent data indicates that Vermont has 8 institutions offering Information Technology programs at various credential levels, with 69 bachelor's degree completions annually, demonstrating consistent pipeline development for the workforce.

Salaries by Metro

Career pathways in Vermont extend beyond traditional IT roles, with emerging opportunities in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and network administration. Students interested in related specializations should explore Cybersecurity in Vermont, Cloud Computing in Vermont, and Network Administration in Vermont programs to understand the full spectrum of career options. The state's geographic positioning in the Northeast Kingdom and Chittenden County regions provides access to employers across multiple sectors. For comprehensive national context, review best Information Technology bachelor's programs nationally and most affordable IT programs to benchmark Vermont opportunities against peers in neighboring states like New York and Massachusetts.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Vermont$64,194$143,202
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Information Technology Programs in Vermont

Online Programs

0 available in Vermont

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$22,947/yr$25,497/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Information Technology Programs in Other States

Information Technology Degree Programs in Vermont: FAQ

What are the best information technology degree programs in Vermont?
The best information technology degree programs in Vermont based on our methodology are: 1) Norwich University (highly ranked), 2) University of Vermont, and 3) Vermont State University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Vermont offers 5 total accredited programs across 3 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do information technology degree programs cost in Vermont?
Information Technology degree program costs in Vermont vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $25,497/year, while private institutions average $56,093/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,374/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $101,988 at public schools to $224,374 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information technology degree graduates earn in Vermont?
Information Technology professionals in Vermont earn a median salary of $98,760, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $64,194, while senior roles exceed $143,202. Salaries vary by metro area: Burlington ($108,636), Montpelier ($103,698) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information technology degree programs in Vermont?
Yes, Vermont offers 0 accredited online Information Technology programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information technology degree graduates in Vermont?
Major Information Technology employers in Vermont include GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer, Faraday, Logic Supply. The Burlington and Montpelier metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Vermont universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Vermont's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information technology degree program worth it in Vermont?
An information technology degree program in Vermont offers strong ROI with a $98,760 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $25,497/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($111,599), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information technology degree programs take in Vermont?
Standard completion times for information technology degree programs in Vermont are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Vermont community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Vermont university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information technology degree students in Vermont?
Vermont information technology degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Vermont state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Vermont's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Vermont salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Information Technology program profiles in Vermont

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Information Technology programs

#1Vermont State UniversityRandolph, VT

Why it stands out. Vermont State University's IT program uniquely prioritizes employer-informed curriculum and real-world organizational problem-solving, preparing graduates for immediate impact in Vermont's healthcare, government, and regional business IT roles.

Hakia insight. Vermont State's embedded partnerships with the Vermont Department of Health and Agency of Digital Services mean your coursework solves *actual* government IT problems, giving you portfolio pieces and reference contacts before graduation that rival internship credentials.

At the associate's level, vermont State University's information technology offerings focus on applied problem-solving and workforce readiness through a curriculum designed with direct input from Vermont employers and regional industry councils. Rather than treating IT as pure computer science, the program emphasizes the business context of technology decisions—how systems serve organizational goals, how infrastructure choices impact operations, and how IT professionals communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Students engage in capstone projects that address real challenges from partner organizations, from small Vermont businesses modernizing legacy systems to state agencies improving service delivery. The program values accessible entry points for students from diverse backgrounds, including those transitioning from other fields or returning to education after work experience, reflecting Vermont's demographic realities and labor market needs. Faculty combine teaching with active consulting and industry engagement, bringing current practices directly into coursework. Graduates find strong placement in healthcare IT, local government technology roles, and small-to-mid-sized company infrastructure positions—the backbone of Vermont's economy. The program also supports professional certifications like CompTIA and AWS, recognizing that credentials matter in hiring decisions. For students seeking relevant, pragmatic IT education rooted in real organizational needs rather than purely theoretical foundations, Vermont State University delivers a program calibrated to regional job market realities and employer expectations.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Information Technology · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology · 2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Renewable Energy Lab — Renewable energy systems and technologies
  • Weather Center — Meteorological research and observation
  • TV Studio Workstations — Media production and broadcasting technology
  • Computer and Electronics Labs — Information technology and software development
  • Solar Training Roof — Solar energy installation and maintenance training

Industry partners

Vermont Department of HealthVermont Agency of Digital ServicesLocal Vermont healthcare systems

Notable faculty

  • Lauren Provost (Information Technology)
  • Craig Damon (Computer Information Systems)
  • Keith Tookey (Computer Information Systems)
  • Leslie Damon (Information Technology)
  • Bill Kuker (Information Technology)

Accreditation & certifications

CompTIA A+CompTIA Network+AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner eligible

Location advantage: Direct partnerships with Vermont government agencies Access to regional healthcare IT employment Small-business and local economy IT infrastructure focus

Best Bachelor's Information Technology programs

#1Vermont State UniversityRandolph, VT

Why it stands out. Mandatory internships and co-ops. Two-part senior capstone project (CIS 4721/4722)

Hakia insight. Vermont State's mandatory internship and co-op requirement, combined with the two-part capstone (4721/4722), forces you to ship real work twice and defend it formally—employers can verify you've deployed systems under supervision, a claim most bachelor's graduates can't make.

The Information Technology B.S. program at Vermont State combines classroom learning with real-world experience through mandatory internships and co-ops. Students develop technical skills to design, build, and deploy software systems, data networks, and telecommunication infrastructures. The curriculum includes hands-on labs for network installation and maintenance, system administration, and web development. A two-part senior capstone project (CIS 4721/4722) provides culminating experience. The program offers two specialization tracks: Infrastructure and Security. Students gain experience with Linux/Windows system administration, network routing, database systems, and cybersecurity. Graduates achieve 100% job placement or graduate school enrollment within six months. The program leverages state-of-the-art computer and electronics labs, with faculty from military, Fortune 500, and startup backgrounds. Strong industry partnerships provide internship opportunities and career pathways.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology · 4 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Renewable Energy Lab — Renewable energy systems and technologies
  • Weather Center — Meteorological research and observation
  • TV Studio Workstations — Media production and broadcasting technology
  • Computer and Electronics Labs — Information technology and software development
  • Solar Training Roof — Solar energy installation and maintenance training

Industry partners

Vermont Department of HealthVermont Agency of Digital ServicesLocal Vermont healthcare systems

Notable faculty

  • Lauren Provost (Information Technology)
  • Craig Damon (Computer Information Systems)
  • Keith Tookey (Computer Information Systems)
  • Leslie Damon (Information Technology)
  • Bill Kuker (Information Technology)

Accreditation & certifications

CompTIA A+CompTIA Network+AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner eligible

Location advantage: Direct partnerships with Vermont government agencies Access to regional healthcare IT employment Small-business and local economy IT infrastructure focus