Posts Tagged ‘Governor John Lynch’
Wednesday, September 1st, 2010
Governor John Lynch has designated the N.H. Postsecondary Education Commission as the lead organization of a coalition that will receive $1.5 million in federal funding to increase the enrollment in postsecondary education in New Hampshire for students who have graduated from high school within the previous 12 months. The funds are being allocated to the state through the U.S. Department of Education’s College Access Challenge Grant (CACG), a program that has been authorized to provide funds to states for the next five years beginning this summer.
 While the goal is to increase access for all students, CACG projects will target under-represented populations including foster children, potential first-generation college students, minorities and financially-needy students. Specific programs receiving support will build upon existing infrastructure to deliver programming, resources and direct services and avoid duplication of effort by encouraging a collaborative partnership of state-wide non-profits and state entities that focus on education at all levels.
“This federal award complements both the Governor’s P-16 Working Group and NH Postsecondary Education Commission efforts to increase the proportion of high school graduates who realize aspirations to continue their education,” said Kathryn Dodge, Executive Director of the NH Postsecondary Education Commission. “This coalition approach, partnerships between the K-12 and higher education sector, public and independent institutions, as well as a variety of non-profit organizations, is designed to improve our capacity to work together for the good of NH students.”
The scope of the funded projects fall into three areas: 1) college aspiration - improving access to and familiarity with college planning information for all students and parents, with emphasis on underserved populations; 2) capacity building - making the application process smoother and more accurate for students, secondary, and postsecondary institutions through implementation of an electronic transcript and working with education professionals at both the secondary and postsecondary level to promote not only access to postsecondary education, but success once access is attained; and, 3) academic preparation - increasing the percentage of students who are prepared to complete college level material.
It is anticipated that the following programs will be supported through the grant:
The NH Higher Education Assistance Foundation (NHHEAF) Network Organization’s Center for College Planning: Increase college aspirations through presenting programs for K-12 students and parents in early awareness, planning for college and careers and information on financial aid; standardized test prep and FAFSA completion for high schools with low college-going rate and a high proportion of low-income students by providing incentives for participation; special work with foster children.
NH College and University Council’s Diversity Initiative: Increase access to postsecondary education for minorities, refugees, immigrants, and students for which English is their second language through college access conventions, college fairs, and events that target minority populations, financial aid workshops at minority-serving community centers, refugee settlement organizations, and churches; and developing and maintaining a scholarship database for under-represented students. The Diversity Initiative will also organize an annual access showcase conference to promote best practices to successfully integrate minority students into the state’s postsecondary system.
NH College and University Council’s NH Scholars Initiative: Increase the number of high schools participating in the NH Scholars Initiative and the number of students at those schools who complete a rigorous high school curriculum. The project encourages all high schools to strengthen school/business partnerships in an effort to motivate all students to engage in challenging coursework thus graduating with the skills and proficiency to succeed in college and a career.
Community College System of NH Mathematics Learning Communities: Increase the awareness, both of students and educators, of the competencies required to successfully complete entry-level college mathematics resulting in a decrease in placement in remedial math courses and an increase in college persistence and success at the community colleges.
Campus Compact of NH: Focus on both access and success in K-16 education through increased opportunities for professional development for K-12 guidance counselors, college financial aid and admissions professionals and other stakeholders; the creation of an after school curriculum encouraging college awareness and planning for K-12 students; and the promotion of K-16 partnerships for college access.
University System of NH (USNH), Community College System of NH (CCSNH), NH Department of Education: Enhance the existing NHTransfer.org database to allow students to send their transcripts electronically from participating high schools and postsecondary institutions to any participating USNH or CCSNH institution. This will enable students and admissions officers to easily evaluate course equivalencies in the transcript. It will also allow transcript information to automatically feed directly into the receiving institution’s student database, increasing efficiency and data accuracy.
The NHHEAF Network Organization’s Center for College Planning: Create an integrated public awareness campaign that increases awareness of and appreciation for higher education. In partnership with NH’s degree-granting postsecondary institutions, the Postsecondary Education Commission, the Division of Children, Youth and Families and local TRIO programs, the campaign would target high school juniors and seniors to promote the value of higher education by focusing on affordability, scholarships and financial aid.
The purpose of the CACG is to foster partnerships among federal, state, and local governments and philanthropic organizations through matching challenge grants that are aimed at increasing the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. The Postsecondary Education Commission will serve as the grant administrator for the CACG.
Tags: Campus Compact of NH, Community College System of NH, Governor John Lynch, Kathryn Dodge, NH College and University Council, NH Higher Education Assistance Foundation, NH Postsecondary Education Commission, NH Scholar's Initiative, U.S. Department of Education
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Wednesday, August 25th, 2010
Gov. John Lynch today announced that five more New Hampshire companies have received Job Training grants in the month of August.
 Job Training grants are aimed at keeping good jobs in New Hampshire by helping companies train their workers with new skills to compete in a changing economy. Gov. Lynch made it a priority to reinstate the Job Training Fund, which distributes up to $1 million annually in matching grants to allow companies to train new workers or retrain longtime employees.
Since the Job Training Fund was reinstated in late 2007 ago, nearly 7,500 workers from across New Hampshire have received training and enhanced skills through the matching grant program.
“New Hampshire is leading the region in economic activity, it is important that we continue to invest in New Hampshire workers and New Hampshire companies if we are to continue leading the way,” Gov. Lynch said. “Job training grants are helping our companies compete and grow, and meet the demands of a changing marketplace.”
The August 2010 recipients of the Job Training grants are: NH Ball Bearings in Laconia; Kheops International of Colebrook; Southeastern Container, Hudson; Airmar Technology Corp. in Milford; and Families in Transition in Manchester.
“The connection between business growth and an investment in professional development is undeniable,” said Department of Resources & Economic Development Commissioner George Bald. “I commend these exemplary companies for making a commitment to improving the skills of their workers and for adding to the economic vitality of the state.”
Since the Job Training Fund was re-established, companies from across New Hampshire have received state grants totaling more than $2.6 million. Companies receiving grants have contributed nearly $5 million, bringing the total amount invested in new training for workers to nearly $7.5 million.
For more information about the Job Training Fund, go to www.nhjobtrainingfund.org.
Tags: Airmar Technology Corp., Families in Transition, George Bald, Governor John Lynch, Kheops International, NH Ball Bearings, NH Department of Resources & Economic Development, NH Job Training Fund, Southeastern Container
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Tuesday, August 17th, 2010
The New Hampshire Division of Economic Development has announced the hiring of Justin Slattery as Regional Business Resource Specialist.
 In his new position, Slattery will plan and implement development strategies which will build economic opportunity for businesses in Cheshire, Sullivan and Grafton Counties. He will work hand in hand with companies on issues ranging from permitting and site selection to energy efficiency and workforce training while also providing strategic counsel to local community and economic development officials.
Slattery’s prior work assignments have included helping clients recruit and acquire acute talent in several high-tech disciplines, managing operations and human resources for a New Hampshire non-profit, working with individuals and companies statewide to access training and career counseling resources available through NH Works and the Workforce Investment Act and serving as Director of Citizen Services for Governor John Lynch focusing on economic development and labor projects.
“Justin’s mix of public and private industry experience is a great advantage in understanding the needs of the business community and connecting companies with the resources they need to grow and succeed,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy. “He comes armed with a variety of experiences and a strong knowledge base that makes him a very valuable addition to our team.”
Slattery is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Political Science. A New Hampshire native, he grew up in Pelham and currently resides in Goffstown with his wife, Amy.
Tags: Amy Slattery, Governor John Lynch, Justin Slattery, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, NH Works, Roy Duddy, Workforce Investment Act
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Friday, July 2nd, 2010
As part of a continuing effort to connect businesses with the resources and services they need to be successful and grow, and to answer questions growing small businesses may have, the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development yesterday unveiled MyExpertNet.
 Dr. William Osgood of the Knowledge Institute looks on as Governor John Lynch announces the unveiling of the MyExpertNet initiative. MyExpertNet is a virtual community created through a public-private partnership where small businesses can get answers to business questions from qualified experts, and connect with other members of the business community to share ideas, resources and markets. The initiative is the result of collaboration between the Knowledge Institute, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Comcast, Public Service of New Hampshire, Centrix Bank and Unitil.
“Over the last several years we have worked to give businesses the tools needed to help them be successful, to grow their companies and create jobs,” Gov. John Lynch said. Under Gov. Lynch, the State of New Hampshire has reinstated the Job Training Fund, and more than 7,000 workers from across New Hampshire have received enhanced training. The State, which has 7th best business tax environment in the nation, created a Research and Development Tax Credit to help innovative companies grow.
“These have been difficult economic times for our state and our businesses. That is why it is important we continue to work with small businesses to help ensure they have what they need to grow,” Gov. Lynch said. “Through MyExpertNet, small businesses can have their questions answered by one of the many volunteer experts. It is important to connect business people with the information they need to be successful and this is one more way we are doing that.”
Over 40 business professionals have volunteered to serve as experts and provide their time, skills and expertise for the initiative. These experts will cover areas ranging from accounting and energy efficiency to federal contracting and international trade. Additional experts will be added in the future, providing entrepreneurs with the opportunity to have their questions answered by more than one professional in each subject area.
“MyExpertNet is an environment where all participants add value and all receive value a true win-win for all involved,” said Knowledge Institute President/CFO Dr. William Osgood, architect of the initiative. “This innovative concept also represents a model that other states can embrace to further the positive impact in building small business strength across the country. We’re pleased that New Hampshire is, once again, a leader in this critical arena.”
 Comcast's Peter Marsh discusses how his company has supported the creation of the new virtual community for small businesses. Major sponsor Comcast has committed to run a MyExpertNet promotional television spot throughout its New Hampshire operating area to help increase awareness of the service.
“Spreading the word about this innovative new initiative ensures that more businesses are given the opportunity to grow and thrive,” said Peter Marsh, Vice President of Business Services for Comcast’s Greater Boston Region. “Comcast is pleased to help small business owners stay focused on growing their business by connecting local owners with the best thought leaders on MyExpertNet.”
“In today’s fast-paced economy, the ability of the public and private sectors to work cooperatively is key in supporting job creation and building an environment where everyone feels responsible for building the economy,” added Public Service of New Hampshire Business Development Manager Gordon Tuttle. “MyExpertNet not only builds closer relationships between the government and the business community, it creates the type of virtual mentorships between experts and entrepreneurs that truly define the term `paying it forward.’”
Sojourn Partners Managing Partner Russ Ouellette, an expert in the “management” category, said that he is pleased to be part of an initiative that allows entrepreneurs to relieve some of their anxiety about business creation and development.
“Anyone who has ever started a business knows that the process is daunting at best and terrifying at worst,” he said. “To have someone who has been through what you’re going through and who is willing to take the time to help you navigate the rough waters is invaluable. This is a great initiative.”
To learn more about MyExpertNet, visit www.myexpertnet.org. Business professionals interested in joining the online expert community are asked to contact Dr. William Osgood at (603) 658-0340 or wro@buzgate.org. To view a list of the registered experts, visit http://www.myexpertnet.org/volunteers.html.
Tags: Centrix Bank, Comcast, Dr. Russ Ouellette, Dr. William Osgood, Gordon Tuttle, Governor John Lynch, Knowledge Institute, MyExpertNet, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Peter Marsh, Public Service of New Hampshire, Sojourn Partners, Unitil
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Friday, June 25th, 2010
The New Hampshire Small Business Development Center, an outreach program of the University of New Hampshire Whittemore School of Business and Economics, has launched a new online course for entrepreneurs seeking guidance on how to finance a New Hampshire business. The course is the latest addition to the center’s broad offering of free online resources available to entrepreneurs.
 Developed by the NH SBDC as the primary resource on financing a business in the state, the 90-minute course, “Financing a Business in NH,” contains a myriad of financing resources and tools for New Hampshire business owners and helps entrepreneurs navigate the maze of funding options available in the state.
“The Small Business Development Center does an excellent job in assisting our small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy. This new online course is another way the Center is working to provide the assistance businesses and entrepreneurs need to be successful here in New Hampshire,” Gov. John Lynch said.
The NH SBDC announced the launch of the course earlier this week at a meeting of the governor and Executive Council at the New Hampshire State House. The course is sponsored by the Community Bankers Association of New Hampshire, Inc., and is part of the center’s e-Learning program, which is sponsored by Public Service of New Hampshire.
“The growth and development of successful small businesses in NH will have a significant impact on job creation and the health of our economy,” states Peter Winship, Executive Director, Community Bankers Association of NH. “Through support of this new SBDC e-course New Hampshire’s community banks can actively provide direct financial resources and information 24/7 to New Hampshire’s business community.”
“’Financing a Business in NH’” is the most recent addition to the SBDC’s robust e-Learning program,” states SBDC director Mary Collins, “and we are thrilled to have the support and backing of our longtime partners, the Community Bankers Association of NH.” Launched in 2008, the e-Learning program provides entrepreneurs more than 23 courses in several areas of business, including management, finance and marketing, at no cost. New and experienced business owners may take a course in one sitting, or over time, depending on their schedules. According to Collins, “More than 2,000 online courses have been completed by business owners and entrepreneurs in 203 NH communities since the program started.” To view “Financing a Business in NH,” visit the center’s e-Learning portal at http://www.nhsbdc.org/e-Learning-entrepreneurs.
The NH Small Business Development Center provides confidential business management consulting and educational programs to New Hampshire’s small businesses. The NH SBDC is the only NH agency that has full-time certified business advisors providing one-on-one, long-term, management consulting to small businesses. NH SBDC is a cooperative venture with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of New Hampshire (DRED), the University System of New Hampshire, and the private sector. For more info on NH SBDC, visit www.nhsbdc.org.
The University of New Hampshire, founded in 1866, is a world-class public research university with the feel of a New England liberal arts college. A land, sea, and space-grant university, UNH is the state’s flagship public institution, enrolling more than 12,200 undergraduate and 2,200 graduate students.
Tags: Community Bankers Association of New Hampshire, Governor John Lynch, Mary Collins, NH SBDC, Peter Winship, Public Service of New Hampshire, Small Business Administration, University of New Hampshire, Whittemore School of Business and Economics
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Monday, June 14th, 2010
Are you currently hearing a Steppenwolf soundtrack blaring in your head? If “Born to be Wild” is cascading from the right side of your brain to the left causing involuntary toe tapping and fist pumping, it’s because Laconia Motorcycle Week is now upon us.
Last week, I had the good fortune to speak at the press conference marking the opening of the 87th Anniversary of Laconia Motorcycle Week at the Weirs Beach Lobster Pound. I joined Governor Lynch, my colleague Henry Goode from the New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism Development, Senator Bob Letourneau, Senator Deb Reynolds and representatives from several law enforcement agencies in welcoming our guests to the state.
 Outgoing Laconia Motorcycle Week Association Board President Paul Lessard receives the Fritzie Baer Award for his dedication to Motorcycle Week from Governor John Lynch as Jennifer Anderson and Charlie St. Clair of the Motorcycle Week Association look on. I’d like to share my remarks in an effort to reach out to any visitors who might find their way to this blog during their travels to New Hampshire (Pssssstttt…..we’d really like your business and would be happy to you set up shop in the Most Livable State in the nation):
“Good morning and thanks very much for giving me the opportunity to welcome friends old and new to the 87th anniversary of Laconia Motorcycle Week.
Motorcycle Week is one of the most highly anticipated events in the state each year and I’d like to personally thank Jennifer Anderson, Charlie St. Claire and Paul Lessard for their hard work in consistently raising the bar in terms of the potential of motorcyle week in New Hampshire. You are all tremendous ambassadors for the state and we salute you for your efforts in building motorcycle week into a world class event.
You’ve already heard from my friend and colleague Henry Goode from the Division of Travel & Tourism Development who told you about how the State of New Hampshire reaches out to attract visitors to Motorcycle Week – I’m here to tell you that once we capture our guests as visitors, we want them to stay here and build their businesses in the Granite State.
Last year, one of our business recruiters, Cindy Harrington and I were fortunate enough to take part in a promotion with Laconia Harley Davidson called the No Bull Business Run where we rode Harleys to the Rally in the Valley in North Conway all the way back to Meredith and Laconia. As part of that run, we distributed information to motorcyclists about the benefits of expanding or relocating a business to New Hampshire. We also took the opportunity to ask them what they like about our state – almost to a person, their responses were the same – they like the low tax nature that New Hampshire has become famous for, they like the scenic beauty of our state and they like visiting a place where “live free or die” still means something. Individual freedoms are respected and treasured in New Hampshire, government is responsive and innovative and businesses receive the support and assistance that they need to grow and thrive.
There’s no secret why our state is consistently named the most livable in the nation – it’s because of our low tax, business friendly environment, our low crime rate, our welcoming nature and our true desire to attract and keep businesses.
On behalf of my director Roy Duddy, the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development welcomes motorcyclists to the state of New Hampshire and issues one simple message – come here to ride and enjoy Motorcycle Week and stay and build a thriving business in a state that is awaiting you with open arms. New Hampshire is ready to help your business dreams become a business reality – thanks!”
Special thanks to Jennifer Anderson and Charlie St. Clair of the Laconia Motorcycle Week Association for their hard work in promoting a world class event and to Paul Lessard, outgoing Motorcycle Week Association Board President, who is stepping down after this year to pursue a new challenge - taking care of his young son as a stay at home Dad. You are all wonderful!
- Steve Boucher, Communications & Legislative Director
Tags: Charlie St. Clair, Cindy Harrington, Governor John Lynch, Henry Goode, Jennifer Anderson, Laconia Harley-Davidson, Laconia Motorcycle Week, New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism Development, Paul Lessard, Roy Duddy, Senator Bob Letourneau, Senator Deb Reynolds, Steppenwolf, Steve Boucher, Weirs Beach Lobster Pound
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Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010
Governor John Lynch has announced that New Hampshire has joined forces with Microsoft in an innovative public-private partnership to provide free technology training to unemployed residents across the state.
Through Elevate America, Microsoft will work with the Office of Workforce Opportunity, Department of Resources and Economic Development, New Hampshire Employment Security and NH Works Career Centers to distribute 5,625 vouchers for free, online technology training and certification.
 (L. to R.) NH Employment Security Commissioner Tara Reardon congratulates Penny Letourneau of Concord, the first recipient of an Elevate America technology training voucher as NH Department of Resources & Economic Development Commissioner George Bald and Microsoft General Manager for State and Local Government John Bunn look on. “Providing training for our workers is one of the best investments we can make in our economy. Through my New Hampshire Working initiative and the Job Training Fund, we have made helping workers get the skills they need to get good jobs a priority,” Gov. Lynch said. “The Elevate America initiative is helping our continuing efforts to get workers the skills and certifications they need so we can help them get back to work.”
The first vouchers were recently distributed at the NH Works Center in Concord by George Bald, Commissioner of the Department of Resources and Economic Development, and Commissioner Tara Reardon of NH Employment Security. Joining Commissioners Bald and Reardon was John Bunn, Microsoft’s General Manager for State and Local Government.
The free vouchers are available to unemployed residents only until July 1, when vouchers will be distributed on a first-come first-serve basis. Vouchers must be activated by users by August 19, 2010.
Vouchers include 2,500 for Microsoft Business Certification Training; 2,500 vouchers for Microsoft Business Certification examinations, and 625 vouchers for advanced Microsoft IT Professional online learning.
“Elevate America helps people to get the critical technology skills they need to get a job in today’s competitive workplace,” said Microsoft’s Bunn. “We believe that this type of public-private partnership will play an important role in rebuilding New Hampshire’s and the nation’s economy by offering immediate access to basic technology literacy and skills training to ultimately improve recipients’ employment prospects.”
“Job seekers can use these online courses from their computers at home, and access the training for up to a year once activated,” said Employment Security Commissioner Tara Reardon. “Offering access to computer skills training will greatly improve recipients’ employment prospects.”
“Employers at our recent Governors Job Cabinet Roundtable discussions expressed the hope that today’s job applicants be trained in new technology skills, and this opportunity comes at an appropriate time, as employers begin to hire again,” said DRED Commissioner George Bald. “The Elevate America program will help New Hampshire companies remain competitive in today’s marketplace.”
Microsoft Elevate America vouchers can be obtained at the 13 local NH Works Centers throughout the state.
Vouchers can be used for the following training and certifications:
Computer Basics for Beginners - Access basic computer concepts and skills. Perfect for those new to computers. No voucher is required for the beginner courses.
Programs requiring vouchers:
Intermediate Level, Business Worker Online Learning - Select from: Microsoft Windows Vista, Office 2003 or Office 2007 online training. Voucher must be activated by July 26, 2010. E-Learning is accessible for 12 months from activation date.
Advanced Level IT Professional Online Learning - Select a training from Microsoft’s online learning library for IT Professionals and Developers. The cost of certification exams at this level is not covered by this program. Voucher must be activated by August 19, 2010.
Intermediate Level Certification Exams - Certification exams must be taken at a Certiport Testing Location. Select from Office 2003 or Office 2007 exams. Voucher must be activated by August 19, 2010. Certification exams must also be completed by August 19, 2010.
New Hampshire Certiport Examinations Centers are located at:
Blended Solutions Technical Institute
1000 Elm Street, Manchester N H 03101
603-622-4922
Contact: Cindy Kuehl (ckuehl@bstinh.com)
New Horizons of Northern New England
460 Amherst St., Nashua 03060
603-882-4900
Contact: Todd Duhamel (toddd@nhnashua.com)
ATI Institute of Rochester
35 Industrial Way, Suite 150, Rochester 03867
603-330-3533
Contact: Christina Dame (christina@smartati.com)
Manchester Community Resource Center
177 Lake Ave., Manchester 03103
603-647-8967
Contact: Fawn Francis (info@ontracktraining.org)
New Hampshire’s participation in Microsoft’s Elevate America program makes it the 22ndstate to take part in the initiative, which is expected to provide up to one million vouchers nationwide. The program is a part of Microsoft’s overall efforts to provide technology training for up to two million people during the next three years.
Microsoft announced the “Elevate America” program at the National Governor’s Conference in February 2009. The initiative is expected to provide up to 1 million vouchers nationwide for Microsoft e-Learning courses and select Microsoft certification exams at no or low cost to recipients. The program, part of Microsoft’s overall Unlimited Potential efforts to improve social and economic opportunities for people, will provide technology training for up to two million people during the next three years.
For additional information regarding Elevate America visit:
http://www.microsoft.com/about/corporatecitizenship/us/communityinvestment/elevateamerica.aspx
Tags: ATI Institute of Rochester, Blended Solutions Technical Institute, Christina Dame, Cindy Kuehl, Elevate America, Fawn Francis, Governor John Lynch, John Bunn, Manchester Community Resource Center, Microsoft, New Hampshire Employment Security, New Horizons of Northern New England, NH Department of Resources & Economic Development, NH Works, Office of Workforce Opportunity, Tara Reardon, Todd Duhamel
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Thursday, May 13th, 2010
Gov. John Lynch has signed into law his new, innovative jobs initiative aimed at helping workers and companies recover from the recession.
 Governor John Lynch New Hampshire Working is a three-part initiative introduced by Gov. Lynch. It is designed to help companies and workers avoid layoffs, help unemployed workers return to work and provide training to help workers get new jobs.
“Our number one focus must continue to be helping companies and workers recover from this recession,” Gov. Lynch said. “We cannot and we will not rest until everyone who wants a job can get a job. With this legislation, we are providing businesses and citizens with new help to get back to work and to recover from the recession.”
New Hampshire Working leverages existing resources to help businesses and workers recover from the recession. The legislation implementing parts of the program received overwhelming bipartisan support in the House and Senate.
“I have met a number of people who have been out of work for several months, and in some cases a year or more. They want the opportunity to work again, to show employers they have the skills and talents needed in today’s workforce, but they just need someone to give them a chance,” Gov. Lynch said. “With New Hampshire Working, we are giving them that chance. At the same, with this legislation, we will be able to help businesses retain the workers they need to recover from the recession and ensure that our workers and companies have the skills they need to compete in the future.”
“The focus of New Hampshire Employment Security is putting New Hampshire’s citizens back to work. New Hampshire Working provides us with creative new ways to help our workforce stay at work, return to work and be ready for work,” said Employment Security Commissioner Tara Reardon. “We applaud our Governor and the Legislature’s hard work in support of these efforts to help both business and employees in this challenging times.”
The new law, Senate Bill 501, immediately implements two parts of New Hampshire Working; the final piece is already up and running.
Under the first part of New Hampshire Working, the state will be able to partner with businesses and workers to provide an alternative to layoffs. Companies and workers would agree to reduced hours instead of layoffs, and the state will make up part of the lost wages for workers through unemployment benefits.
Workers will keep their jobs, their health insurance and most of their income. Companies will be able to retain the skilled workers they need to recover, and taxpayers will avoid increased costs as the demand for state services increases as unemployment rises. This part of New Hampshire Working is modeled after successful job-share programs in other states.
Under the second part of New Hampshire Working, New Hampshire job agencies will develop a plan for assessing the job skills of all newly unemployed workers. Workers can take the results of those assessments to potential employers, giving business owners confidence that new hires will have the necessary skills.
The new law also doubles the state’s Job Training Fund to $2 million a year in 2011 and allows Employment Security to use those funds to train unemployed workers.
“New Hampshire Working is a way we can help companies and workers through these tough times,” Gov. Lynch said. “The funding required for these programs is money we are already spending – but with New Hampshire Working we’re spending it better, in a way that will help companies and workers, and reduce costs for taxpayers.”
The final part of New Hampshire Working did not require legislation and is already up and running. This part of the initiative reduces upfront training costs for companies – often an impediment to hiring – and is providing on-the-job training to help workers get new jobs. Unemployed workers are able to continue to receive unemployment benefits while participating in up to six weeks of training at a potential new employer. A company has until the end of that period to decide if a worker has the skills the business needs.
Senate Bill 501 was sponsored by Sens. Maggie Hassan, Matt Houde, Amanda Merrill, Betsi DeVries, Jackie Cilley, Bette Lasky, Molly Kelly, Sylvia Larsen, Martha Fuller Clark, Kathy Sgambati, Deb Reynolds, Harold Janeway, Lou D’Allesandro, Peggy Gilmour, Bob Odell; and Reps. Mary Jane Wallner, Sally Kelly, Dan Eaton, Ed Butler and Will Infantine.
Tags: Amanda Merrill, Betsi DeVries, Bette Lasky, Bob Odell, Dan Eaton, Deb Reynolds, Ed Butler, Governor John Lynch, Harold Janeway, Jackie Cilley, Kathy Sgambati, Lou D'Allesandro, Maggie Hassan, Martha Fuller Clark, Mary Jane Wallner, Matt Houde, New Hampshire Working, NH Employment Security, Peggy Gilmour, Sally Kelly, Sylvia Larsen, Tara Reardon, Will Infantine
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Thursday, March 25th, 2010
Gov. John Lynch and his Jobs Cabinet today announced a regional Business Finance Fair will be held on April 30 from 8 a.m.-noon at the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside , giving businesses the opportunity to meet with representatives from area banks, credit unions and other financial resource organizations. The fair is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in starting a business.
During Gov. Lynch’s Jobs Cabinet Roundtable Series held over the last several months, many businesses leaders expressed concerns about a difficulty in obtaining financing. This finance fair is in response to those concerns.
“Businesses continue to tell me how they are struggling to find the credit or working capital to grow their companies. If our companies are not able to grow, they cannot create new jobs and our economy will not be as strong as it could be,” Gov. Lynch said. “Meanwhile, local financial institutions tell me they have money to lend. The goal of this Fair is to help businesses connect with financing options so that they can continue to grow.”
The Finance Fair will also several workshops on ways businesses can use credit enhancements, on preparing to speak with lenders and on how to work with alternative financing.
 Bank of America, Service Credit Union, the New Hampshire Banking Department and the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development are sponsoring the event.
“For some local business leaders, securing financing can be intimidating given the different options and effect each may have on a company’s balance sheet,” said John Weeks, New Hampshire president, Bank of America. “By bringing together lenders and providing valuable educational workshops, organizers of the inaugural Business Finance Fair aim to provide clarity around the process.”
“Service Credit Union is honored to sponsor the Finance Fair. It provides a unique opportunity for business leaders to learn about the local resources available to them. At Service Credit Union, we recognize that building strong relationships are key to success in business,” said Gordon Simmons, president and CEO of Service Credit Union. “We are proud to support Governor John Lynch’s business initiative and to share our vision of being a leader in corporate citizenship. It is a great pleasure to be a major sponsor of the Finance Fair and we look forward to expanding our cooperation in these venues.”
“I want to make sure we are doing all we can to foster our business friendly environment here in New Hampshire,“ Gov. Lynch said. ”It is my hope these fairs will provide business leaders with a better understanding of the financing options that may be available to them and how to pursue those options.”
Businesses interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP with the New Hampshire Banking Department by calling 271-3561 or by sending an e-mail to events@banking.state.nh.us.
Tags: Bank of America, Gordon Simmons, Governor John Lynch, John Weeks, New Hampshire Banking Department, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Service Credit Union, Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside
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Thursday, March 11th, 2010
Gov. John Lynch and the Executive Council have approved the use of federal Workforce Investment Act funds to expand a successful program in Grafton County that offers real world learning opportunities and high school credit for students.
The $234,678 contract with the Grafton County Economic Development Council will help to expand the existing North Country Workplace Education Project.
 “We must continue to create new opportunities for real-world learning, where students can gain on-the-job training and the basic skills they need to graduate from high school and get a good job. These funds will allow us to expand a successful program, where students are learning valuable lessons, as well as high school credits,” said Gov. Lynch. “This program represents the state’s growing efforts to provide greater alternative education programs that are helping more of our young people graduate from high school.”
Gov. Lynch has made increasing New Hampshire’s high school graduation rate a priority, by increasing the compulsory attendance age from 16 to 18 and expanding alternative education programs. In just the last year, New Hampshire’s high school dropout rate decreased by 30 percent. This initiative builds on those efforts.
The current program matches students from the Lisbon Regional School and Profile High School, with companies such as Garnet Hill and New England Wire. Funding from the Workforce Investment Act will fund an expansion to other North Country high schools and businesses.
“Providing students with the opportunity to gain new job readiness skills is of paramount importance to building the workforce of tomorrow,” said Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner George Bald. “I’m thrilled that more and more young people will be able to access this first class project and to take advantage of this excellent public/private partnership.”
“The Governor and Executive Council’s support for this public/private partnership represents the solid support for innovative solutions to the problems in the North Country,” said Mark Scarano, executive director of the Grafton County Economic Development Council.
Tags: Garnet Hill, George Bald, Governor John Lynch, Grafton County, Grafton County Economic Development Council, Lisbon Regional School, Mark Scarano, New England Wire, New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development, North Country Workplace Education Project, Profile High School, Workforce Investment Act
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