About VABEC

"The historic buildings and fields of what was one of Vermont's first dairy farms are ideally located at the southern gateway to Vermont in Brattleboro. The continuing restoration of offices,labs, classrooms and meeting places is directed to the specific needs of each tenant. The serene farm campus coupled with advanced communication technology such as T1 internet access and videoconferencing make VABEC the ideal solution for businesses and organizations looking for the best of both worlds."

—Joe Famolare, Famolare, Inc.

VABEC is a prime office facility located on 100+ acres of farmland in beautiful Southern Vermont. Offices, classrooms and meeting rooms are housed in an array of fully restored and modernized historic farm buildings, creating a rustic air to the fully modern activities of those who work here.

Renovation of the barn and farm buildings began in the mid 1990’s. During that time VABEC has become a vibrant center for various higher educational ventures bringing like-minded organizations under one set of roofs to pursue their independent and mutual interests. Great lengths have been taken to preserve the integrity of the barn and to restore it keeping its historical heritage intact while offering a clean and comfortable classroom environment.

Agriculture, Arts, Education and Entrepreneurship

VABEC is more than just an office complex. Occupying the site of the Lawrence family farm which dates back to the 1860's, VABEC still houses a working farm, run by faculty and students from the University of Vermont Extension and Brattleboro Union High School. VABEC's association with the high school extends to the girl's sports program, hosting the soccer and lacrosse teams on the outer fields, and the Career Center which is also located next to the VABEC campus.

As part of VABEC's agricultural community commitment, VABEC is home to organizations such as the Windham County 4H Club and the Windham County Forester's office.

VABEC has also played a part in the arts in southern Vermont, hosting successful jazz concerts and art shows in the Maria Lawrence room.

VABEC founder Joe Famolare takes a special interest in helping small business and non-profit ventures, particularly in the core areas of education, agriculture and the environment. A number of new endeavors have passed through VABEC over the years, contributing to the Center's special energy and general attainment of our mandate, "We cultivate endeavor."