In 2003, there were about 537 regional, national, and international organizations within the state.
Associations headquartered in Vermont largely reflect the state's agricultural interests. Among these are Gardens for All (the National Association for Gardening), the American Chestnut Foundation, the Ayrshire Breeders' Association of America, the Holstein Association USA, and the International Maple Syrup Institute. The Vermont Arts Council is located in Montpelier. There are several local arts organizations and historical societies as well. The Bread Loaf Writers Conference, based at Middlebury College, sponsors educational programs that attract writers from across the country.