Accessing Green Practices in New Hampshire
GrantID: 14973
Grant Funding Amount Low: $25,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Rural-Urban Dynamics and Green Practices Support in New Hampshire
New Hampshire's unique geography, characterized by a mix of rural and urban communities, presents both challenges and opportunities for the adoption of green practices among local businesses. With over 70% of the state’s land classified as forested and significant agricultural activities, the transition to green practices must align with both environmental goals and the economic realities faced by businesses in these diverse settings. According to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, nearly 40% of New Hampshire’s carbon emissions come from the transportation and heating sectors, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices across all business sectors.
The groups most impacted by this transition include small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout the state, many of which are family-owned and may have limited resources to invest in green technologies. Given that New Hampshire has more than 26,000 small businesses accounting for 46% of the state's workforce, supporting these entities in adopting environmentally friendly practices is critical for both economic resilience and environmental health. Rural businesses, in particular, often face additional barriers, such as lack of access to information and resources compared to their urban counterparts in cities like Manchester and Nashua.
Funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) grant will facilitate the adoption of green practices through training and technical assistance for local businesses statewide. This initiative aims to provide SMEs with access to resources that will allow them to implement strategies for reducing waste, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. By providing tailored consulting services and workshops, the initiative will enable businesses to develop sustainability plans that can enhance their operations while also positively impacting the local environment.
Target outcomes for this initiative focus on increasing the number of businesses that successfully implement green practices, thereby contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions in New Hampshire. Given that environmental concerns are increasingly influential in consumer purchasing decisions, supporting businesses in this transition can not only bolster their market positions but also advance the state's overall sustainability goals. Enhanced green practices will thus play a dual role: driving economic success while contributing to a healthier environment for all residents.
Organizations wishing to apply for this funding must demonstrate readiness in terms of their ability to engage effectively with local businesses and facilitate ongoing training. Successful applicants will need to outline clear strategies for reaching out to SMEs across both rural and urban communities, ensuring equitable access to the resources provided by the grant. Having a well-defined plan for assessing the effectiveness of programs and gathering feedback from participating businesses will also be paramount in demonstrating long-term viability and adaptability.
In conclusion, the initiative to support the adoption of green practices among local businesses in New Hampshire represents a strategic alignment of environmental and economic goals. As the state emphasizes sustainable practices, funding through NSF can serve as a catalyst for transformative change at the community level, ensuring that New Hampshire remains a leader in environmental stewardship while fostering significant economic growth.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
