Megan Sullivan becomes first Vermont lobbyist in NILE Top 100 list

Megan Sullivan, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, has been named a 2026 Top Lobbyist by the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics (NILE). She is the first lobbyist based in Vermont to receive this specific honor. The award recognizes Sullivan among just 100 individuals out of more than 50,000 state and federal lobbyists nationwide.

Sullivan directs the Chamber’s legislative strategy and represents Vermont businesses at the State House. Her role involves bringing employer priorities into policy discussions that shape the state’s economy. NILE received a record number of nominations for the 2026 cycle. The selection process was a blind peer review that evaluated professional accomplishments, innovation, integrity, and community service. Nominations included recommendation letters from colleagues, clients, Members of Congress, senior government officials, and former Cabinet secretaries.

Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, praised Sullivan’s daily work ethic. “Megan brings expertise, sound judgment, and determination to her work every day,” Spear said. “She listens closely to our members, understands what policy decisions mean for their businesses, and works tirelessly to turn those insights into effective advocacy. This national recognition is well deserved, and we are proud to have her leading our government affairs work.”

The award acknowledges the value of experienced advocacy as Vermont businesses face rising costs, workforce shortages, and housing constraints. The Chamber uses member input and economic analysis to build a legislative agenda aimed at strengthening the state’s business climate. Sullivan’s leadership connects these economic realities with a collaborative policy approach.

Sullivan expressed gratitude for the support her nomination received from peers and policymakers. “I'm incredibly honored and humbled to be recognized with this award and by the incredible support my nomination received from my peers, colleagues, and policymakers,” Sullivan said. She noted that working with businesses of all sizes across Vermont communities shaped her advocacy style. “Strong advocacy starts with listening to businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible. That experience has shaped my approach to advocacy and reinforced my belief that the people navigating the challenges of running a business deserve a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect them.”

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce operates as a not-for-profit business organization dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. The group advocates for businesses statewide, builds community, and provides resources to its members. The announcement was issued on October 26, 2026, from Berlin, Vermont.