Grafton County NH Economic Development Council - Business Assistance
Grafton County Economic Development Council
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In the News...

July 17, 2008

2008 Nominations Sought!

The GCEDC is pleased to accept nominations for the second annual 'Grafton County Business of the Year' award.

This is the second year that the GCEDC will offer a business such recognition. Last year’s award went to Canaan Hardware. That company was nominated by local residents impressed by the management’s ability to weather new and strong competition as well as their concern for local aesthetics when they moved to a highly visible location adjacent to Canaan’s village common.

Nominated businesses for this year’s award should be able to show high standards of excellence in three areas: care for their community, commitment to their employees, and a history of corporate success. There are no restrictions on the size of the business, its payroll, or geographic location within Grafton County. Businesses are encouraged to self-nominate and all nominations are due by August 22, 2008

Nomination criteria and forms can be found here or by contacting the GCEDC toll free at 1-888-535-0002. The award will be presented to the successful business during the GCEDC’s Annual Meeting in September.

Business Assistance

The GCEDC partners with specialized economic development organizations and programs in order to help Grafton County's businesses thrive and grow.  If you are having difficulties with your business or perhaps wish to start your own business, contact the GCEDC.  We'd be happy to put you in touch with these groups!

SCORE

The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a nonprofit organization that offers free and confidential small business advice and training to help small businesses. SCORE is comprised of retired business owners that wish to help the next generation of small business owner succeed. In the Lebanon-Hanover area, contact the Upper Valley SCORE Chapter. In the greater Plymouth area, contact the Lakes Region SCORE Chapter.

NH MEP

The New Hampshire Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a technical and educational skills provider to manufacturers throughout the State.  Sponsored in part by the Federal Government, the MEP is part of a nationwide consortia that works one-on-one with manufacturers to identify specific needs and provide customized solutions.  

SBDC

The New Hampshire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers free, one-on-one, confidential business counseling, low cost training programs, and access to information and referral. Because of their expertise, the GCEDC makes frequent referrals to the SBDC. You can contact the GCEDC toll free for an appointment (1-888-535-0002).

NHPTAP

The NH Procurement Technical Assistance Program provides assistance to individuals and businesses seeking to learn about contracting and subcontracting opportunities with Department of Defense, other federal agencies, or state and local governments.

NH ITRC

The NH International Trade Resource Center - If you are interested in trading products internationally, check out the International Trade Resources Center. The Center works to promote international trade and can assist you as you develop foreign markets.

Traffic Count Information

NH DOT Traffic Counts: While putting together your marketing strategy, click here and go to "traffic counts" to search for traffic volumes by geographic location or by route.

Helpful Links

Small Business Management Topics is maintained by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. It provides hundreds of downloadable pamphlets on topics relevant to today's small business owner.

MicroCredit- NH

MicroCredit-NH is a non-profit corporation that provides self-employed and small business entrepreneurs with access to business training, loans up to $15,000, and networking opportunities. These business essentials are provided through a unique network of over 60 peer groups each made up of four to 10 members who have different small businesses, both product-based and service-oriented. The peer group offers its members ongoing assistance to help them achieve business success.

NH Business Resource Ctr

New Hampshire Business Resource Center offers resources to enhance the economic activities of the state through business attraction outreach, in-state business expansion efforts, and facilitation of government and international sales.

NH Electric Coop

New Hampshire Electric Co-op is the largest power utility in Grafton County. Co-op staff can review a site to determine what is needed to accommodate your facility and electric service requirements. The Co-op has a team of experienced energy service personnel that can evaluate your operations and electric service needs and provide you with an estimate of your electric service costs for any of our service territory communities.

NH Employment Security

New Hampshire Employment Security if you're seeking employees, why not try the State's primary employment agency. You can speak to someone who knows Grafton County's labor markets in their Lebanon, Littleton or Laconia (southeastern Grafton County) offices.

The SBA

The US Small Business Administration has a large selection of helpful advice articles on their website.