Equity Exchange is a VT PoC tool that connects white allies offering free professional services with BIPOC professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, and community builders in Vermont.
Many people ask us, “How can I help?” Equity Exchange gives them a practical answer. Allies can offer skills such as resume support, interview coaching, web development, marketing, branding, bookkeeping, tax support, legal guidance, grant writing, business strategy, mentorship, financial management, and other professional services.
For BIPOC Vermonters, Equity Exchange creates another pathway to access support that may otherwise be expensive, hard to find, or difficult to navigate. For allies, it offers a concrete way to support racial equity beyond words or one-time gestures.
This is not charity. It is a community-based exchange of time, skills, access, and expertise that can help BIPOC Vermonters build stronger careers, stronger businesses, and stronger economic futures in Vermont.
Important Note: Listings are reviewed by VT PoC, but we do not recommend or guarantee services. VT PoC is not responsible for the quality or outcome of services provided.
How It Works
White allies complete a short profile form describing the services they can offer. VT PoC reviews submissions before profiles are posted.
BIPOC users can browse the directory, search by service category or location, and contact an ally directly when they find someone whose skills match their needs.
VT PoC provides the platform and reviews listings, but does not manage the relationship between users and allies. Everyone is encouraged to communicate clearly, set expectations early, and engage with respect and accountability.
FAQ
What is Equity Exchange?
Equity Exchange is a VT PoC directory that connects white allies offering free professional services with BIPOC Vermonters seeking career, business, or organizational support.
Who can use Equity Exchange?
Equity Exchange is for BIPOC professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community builders in Vermont.
Who can become an ally?
Anyone who actively works to dismantle systemic racism and supports people of color; specifically, White individuals with professional skills, experience, or expertise can apply to be listed in the directory. Allies should be willing to offer services voluntarily and pro bono.
What does “pro bono” mean?
Pro bono means the service is offered for free. Allies listed on Equity Exchange agree to offer their support without charging the BIPOC user for the service offered through the platform.
What kinds of services are included?
Services may include resume support, interview coaching, web development, marketing, branding, bookkeeping, tax support, legal guidance, grant writing, business strategy, entrepreneurial support, mentorship, financial management, and similar professional services.
Equity Exchange is not intended for emergency, crisis, or time-sensitive legal, financial, medical, or safety needs.
How do I find help?
Browse the Equity Exchange directory, search by service type, and contact an ally directly when you find someone who may be a good fit.
Does VT PoC match me with an ally?
Not in this first version. Users contact allies directly through the directory.
Does VT PoC approve the allies listed?
VT PoC reviews ally submissions before they are posted. However, listing someone does not mean VT PoC recommends or guarantees their services.
Is VT PoC responsible for the service provided?
No. VT PoC provides the platform for connection, but we do not manage, supervise, or guarantee the services provided by listed allies.
What should I ask before working with an ally?
We recommend discussing the type of help needed, timeline, availability, expected outcome, and any boundaries before starting. Clear expectations help everyone.
Can businesses and nonprofits use Equity Exchange?
Yes. BIPOC-owned businesses, BIPOC-led nonprofits, and community projects may use Equity Exchange if they are seeking professional support.
Can allies charge for additional services?
The services offered through Equity Exchange should be free. If an ally and user decide to discuss paid work beyond the original pro bono support, that must be clearly discussed outside the platform. VT PoC is not involved in those arrangements.
Can I offer more than one service as an ally?
Yes. Allies may list multiple service categories if they have relevant skills and experience.
What if an ally does not respond?
Because services are offered voluntarily, response times may vary. If someone does not respond, we recommend contacting another ally in the directory.
What if I have a concern about someone listed?
Please contact VT PoC if you have a concern about a profile or experience. We reserve the right to remove listings that do not align with the purpose and values of Equity Exchange.
