Manchester, N.H. – On Monday, Sen. Maggie Hassan chaired the ninth Innovate NH forum, a yearly gathering aimed at strengthening New Hampshire’s business climate. The event took place at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, drawing a cross‑section of local CEOs, startup founders, and economic development officials.
Key priorities identified by the business community
During a brief opening remarks, Sen. Hassan said, “I just learned a lot, especially the core things that businesses tell me they really need our help with: it’s workforce, and it’s housing and it’s energy.” Those three pillars—skilled labor, affordable living options, and reliable power—were echoed throughout the day’s panel discussions.
Panelists stressed that a shortage of qualified workers is hampering growth for both established manufacturers and emerging tech firms. Several speakers called for expanded apprenticeship programs and stronger partnerships between community colleges and private industry to create a pipeline of talent that matches the state’s evolving needs.
Housing affordability as a competitive edge
Representatives from the real‑estate sector highlighted the tight housing market as a deterrent for prospective employees. They advocated for incentives that encourage the development of mixed‑use projects near major employment centers, arguing that proximity to work can reduce commute times and improve quality of life for families.
Sen. Hassan noted that the state’s recent housing initiatives are a step in the right direction, but she urged local municipalities to streamline permitting processes so that new construction can move forward more quickly.
Energy reliability and cost concerns
Energy experts warned that rising utility costs and occasional supply disruptions threaten the competitiveness of New Hampshire’s manufacturing base. They suggested expanding renewable‑energy projects and modernizing the grid to provide more stable, affordable power for businesses of all sizes.
The senator referenced external challenges, citing the war in Iran and ongoing tariff disputes as additional obstacles that could dampen the state’s innovation momentum. She emphasized that proactive state policies can help mitigate these global pressures.
Looking ahead
Attendees left the forum with a set of actionable recommendations for the administration, including: expanding vocational training, incentivizing affordable housing development, and investing in a resilient energy infrastructure. The consensus was clear—addressing these three core needs will make New Hampshire a more attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors.
Sen. Hassan thanked the participants for their candid feedback and pledged to bring the forum’s insights to upcoming legislative sessions. She reaffirmed her commitment to creating an environment where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and the state’s economic future remains bright.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
