News
NBRC Welcomes Sarah Waring as New Executive Director
2025-01-28
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2025
Contact: Chris Saunders
fedcochair@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission is thrilled to announce that Sarah Waring will join the Commission as Executive Director. Waring has most recently served as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) State Director of Rural Development for Vermont and New Hampshire, where she has fostered a collaborative relationship with the Commission.
As the NBRC’s second Executive Director, Waring brings extensive economic development leadership experience to the team alongside a thorough understanding of NBRC’s work. She has previously served as the executive director of the Center for an Agricultural Economy, an organization that is a multiple-time NBRC grant recipient, and worked in philanthropy at the Vermont Community Foundation as a co-investor in NBRC-supported projects. During her time at USDA, Waring’s leadership included management of a two-state jurisdiction and investment portfolio of over $200 million annually in grants and loans. This work included fostering interagency agreements between USDA and NBRC which directed millions of dollars across the Commission’s four state territory.
NBRC’s Executive Director is responsible for the administrative and fiscal management of the Commission, and for ensuring that the organization’s structure, budget, and overall functions align with the organization’s strategic plan and executive branch initiatives within the region. The position oversees the NBRC’s programmatic, finance and administrative staff, and reports to the Federal Co-Chairperson, as well as to representatives from each of the four NBRC States.
“With a career focused on advancing the needs of rural communities Sarah brings a tremendous amount of economic development experience to the Commission. Sarah’s demonstrated leadership will be a significant asset for the Commission as it implements its new strategic plan and builds on its existing partnerships to better serve the people of Northern New England and New York,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair.
"The NBRC is an incredible asset to our region, and our rural counties", said Waring. "I am so excited to join the talented team to continue their mission and impact."
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NBRC Announces Combined $24 Million in Fall 2024 Awards Through Catalyst, Forest Economy, and Timber for Transit Programs
2025-01-23
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2025
Contact: Andrea Smith, Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
CONCORD, N.H. (January 23, 2025) – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announced just over $24 million in new awards as part of the Commission’s Fall 2024 round of funding across all three of its competitive programs. The 37 new awards will benefit communities throughout the Commission’s member states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Awards made per program include the following:
- $20.6 million awarded through the Catalyst Program, including 18 projects expanding the region’s critical infrastructure and 15 projects building a diversified economy and competitive workforce.
- Two awards totaling $1.9 million awarded through the Forest Economy Program (FEP) include expanding forestry workforce initiatives and support for an immersive high school forestry program.
- Two awards totaling $2.28 million awarded in the Commission’s new Timber for Transit (T4T) Program will support replacing deteriorated bridge materials with wood-based materials and composites, as well as the design and construction of an outdoor hybrid timber pavilion for year-round small business use.
“Community centered economic development is at the heart of NBRC’s work. What’s consistent about all the projects receiving funds from the Commission’s fall competition is that they will create economic opportunity and improve day-to-day life for the people who call this region home,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC.
A full list of awarded projects by state and program can be viewed in the full press release here.
Forest Economy Program awards support workforce and education in Chittenden County, VT and Kennebeck County, ME:
"VYCC is excited to participate in the NBRC Forest Economy Program! These funds will increase the number of young adults working and learning in Vermont's forest over the next three years. With a broad array of partners, we can enhance training outcomes and connect our participants with employment opportunities. We look forward to increasing our collaboration with regional land managers and strengthening relationships with workforce partners in the forest products industry," said Patrick Pfeifer, Conservation Program Director at Vermont Youth Conservation Corps.
"The Forestry Immersion Program has quickly demonstrated its incredible value and ability to inspire the next generation of Maine's forest workforce. With funding from the Forest Economy Program, we will work with our partners to expand this initiative, offering students across the state the chance to immerse themselves in the forest and experience the immense potential for a fulfilling and vibrant career in Maine's forest sector," said Logan Johnson, Executive Director, Maine TREE Foundation.
Timber for Transit awards will support local road safety and economic development goals in Sullivan County, NY and Cheshire County, NH:
“Maintaining our roads and bridges increases in cost every year, so this funding announcement is welcome news,” affirmed Sullivan County Manager Joshua A. Potosek. “Replacing the Flugertown Road bridge will not only make it safer and more durable but also ensure continued access to some of the wildest, most unspoiled landscapes in Sullivan County. We rely on the dollars generated by the thousands who come to enjoy our natural resources throughout the year, and thanks to NBRC and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, those resources will remain some of our star attractions.”
"The Timber for Transit grant opportunity has so much potential for our region, and I am thrilled that Keene will have this opportunity to showcase that. One of our economic development goals is to activate areas such as Gilbo Avenue and help people take advantage of our recent land use code updates. The new pavilion is a perfect way to launch that effort that may not have otherwise been possible. In addition, the solar power being created will power our entire downtown project and move us one step closer to our energy goals," said Elizabeth Dragon, City Manager.
Catalyst Program awards include improvements to water and street infrastructure in New York’s Lewis County, primary care support in Vermont’s Windham County, and the construction of an anaerobic digester at a potato chip production plant Maine’s Aroostook County:
"On behalf of the Village of Constableville, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for Senator Schumer’s support in securing 2.776 million dollars in NBRC funding for our potable water system and safe streets infrastructure improvements. This generous funding will go a long way for decades to come, ensuring the health and safety of our community and enhancing the quality of life for all of our residents," said Mayor Samantha Brown.
“We are so pleased and excited about this $1,000,000 Catalyst Program Grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission for construction of our new primary care practice building,” said Grace Cottage Family Health & Hospital CEO Olivia Sweetnam. “In granting us this award, NBRC is validating and supporting what our community knows – the 14 practitioners in our primary care clinic are providing over 30,000 patient visits per year in two homes built in the 1840’s, and we’re bursting at the seams! We have the architectural plans in place and fundraising is progressing quickly for a 23,000 sq-ft. building to ensure that people in our rural area will get the excellent care that they need and deserve, and which they have come to expect from Grace Cottage!”
“We express our sincere gratitude to the Northern Border Regional Commission Catalyst Program for its investment in our Loring campus. We remain committed to collaborating with our partners, including the Taste of Maine team, the City of Limestone, the Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC), and numerous community members who support our commercial enterprises and future developers," said Jonathan Judkins, President/CEO of the Loring Development Authority of Maine.
The funds for all NBRC programs are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about current and future Funding Opportunities.
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Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.
Notice of Public Meeting
2025-01-13
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
January 16th, 11 AM - 12 PM EST
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program Reflects on Year of Successful, Innovative Approaches
2024-10-28
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2024
Contact: Liz Cross, Rural Healthcare Coordinator
ecross@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) aims to bring more healthcare related funding opportunities to the region. As part of this goal, the NBRC partnered with the Federal Office of Rural Health (FORHP) on the Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program. Announced in a press release in September 2023, the project was funded through FORHP, which awarded the Rural Health Redesign Center Organization a supplemental award to support seven organizations across the Northern Border Region with focused one-year healthcare programming.
“It is incredibly exciting to see how these organization have utilized public investments in innovative and collaborative ways to deliver better patient care. NBRC applauds their commitment to finding solutions to improving access to rural health,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders. “Thanks to partners like the Health Resources Services Administration, these investments are part of a collaborative federal approach to addressing the needs of residents of the Northern Border Region.”
With the programming window now coming to a close, awarded organizations detailed the progress brought to their communities through these strategic healthcare initiatives.
Maine
Community Care Partnership of Maine’s ECHO Learning Community (Project ECHO)
This project was created to support providers and care teams in Maine’s rural communities in offering low-barrier access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment. Project ECHO has been successful in contributing to Maine’s opioid response and recovery community through several platforms including the creation of a toolkit for rural health centers looking to administer low-barrier MOUD, including XRB, which will continue to benefit Maine’s healthcare community and beyond for years to come.
The Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership
This organization has been providing customized in-person leadership development training for rural physicians and advanced practice providers in Aroostook County, to address the substance use disorder (SUD) crisis, physician and provider burnout, and the implementation of new payment models. Take a closer look at the core competencies these trainings focus on by visiting their website.
New Hampshire
Ammonoosuc Community Health Services (ACHS) Portable Teaching Kitchen
Under this initiative two portable teaching kitchens were purchased in order to travel to different community settings to teach individuals different ways of cooking healthy meals, and improved meal planning. Further, the initiative sought to reduce social isolation through community-based cooking classes.
Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital - Center for Advancing Rural Health Equity
This project has trained pediatricians in rural Vermont and New Hampshire to provide Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) treatment to prevent dental decay in young children who do not have access to traditional dental care. More information and a PDF of “The Use of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) in Pediatric Care” toolkit can be found on the Dartmouth Health website.
New York
Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization
This organization has collaborated with primary care and social service providers to improve primary care access, patient experience, and address health equity issues. This included workforce trainings and the implementation of patient-centered strategies to better serve low-income, disabled, and elderly individuals living in rural areas.
Canton-Potsdam Hospital, St. Lawrence Health Peer Support Network
The St. Lawrence Health System (SLH) developed the Peer Support Net program to enhance access to healthcare, specifically in Behavioral Health/SUD, and improve recruitment and retention of peer recovery advocates. The program included ongoing training, additional compensation for peer advocates, and direct funds to meet patients' more immediate needs.
Vermont
Brattleboro Memorial Hospital – Mobile Integrated Healthcare
Brattleboro Memorial Hospital and Rescue, Inc. have partnered to provide in-home assessments and an external support system for patients recovering from total joint replacement in their homes. This program has directly improved patient health outcomes, decreased hospital re-admissions and improved the patient and caregiver experience. The Brattleboro Reformer highlighted the partnership in a March 2024 article.
Click Here for a PDF Version of This Press Release
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Northern Border Regional Commission – U.S. Economic Development Administration Partner to Award $2.25 Million Supporting Rural Infrastructure Projects
2024-10-16
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2024
Contact: Andrea Smith, Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces $2.25 million in funding for three projects through a partnership between the NBRC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). This collaboration amplifies both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities, and the latest 2024 round of awards benefit three communities located in Maine, New York, and Vermont with projects ranging from wastewater improvements to transportation infrastructure updates.
“Every community, regardless of their size, has a need for infrastructure that is safe and reliable. Quality infrastructure is an essential building block for successful economic development and these investments will create economic opportunity for residents in these communities and throughout the region,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders. “One of Congress’ directives to regional commissions is to find ways to increase coordination between federal agencies. Our partnership with EDA is a prime example of how we bring the resources of the federal government to bear to the benefit of residents who live here.”
In an effort to ensure rural communities across Northern New England and New York have access to federal funds, NBRC has prioritized the needs of very small communities in its grant making. All of the awards being announced today are made to communities with populations under 2,000, with two of those communities (Grand Isle, ME and Clare, NY) having populations under 400 residents. The total of the awards made in 2024 from this partnership, so far, is $2,250,000 and a summary of each awarded project is below:
Town of Grand Isle, ME – $750,000: This project will fund upgrades and new infrastructure for the town’s wastewater management system, including an upgraded water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, and four wastewater pump stations. Awarded funds will also make the construction of new sludge drying beds possible. [Note: The NBRC also awarded this project an additional $250,000 as part of the Agency’s Catalyst Program, on June 27, 2024]
St. Lawrence County, NY – $750,000: Funds will support the replacement of a bridge carrying Tooley Pond Road over the South Branch of the Grasse River in the Town of Clare. The bridge serves as an important corridor for the timber industry as well as outdoor recreation access.
Town of Wolcott, VT – $750,000: This project supports the construction of a new, more flood-resilient community wastewater treatment system to serve Wolcott’s Village Center; crucial to supporting the village’s ability to capitalize on its prime location along the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail.
“The new system will provide opportunities to expand housing, encourage employment and commercial opportunities as well as protect water quality in the Lamoille River,” said Linda Martin, Wolcott Selectboard Chair. “The 90-mile Lamoille Valley Rail Trail runs through our rural town. It is our hope that entrepreneurs will now have the ability to develop new businesses, with a public wastewater system, to entice visitors to stop at our community.”
The NBRC has received a special appropriation since 2018 for these awards, which has resulted in working closely with the EDA to award funds to projects that meet the strategic objectives of both agencies. This collaboration amplifies both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about future Funding Opportunities.
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.
Click to Download a PDF Version of This Press Release
Over $3M Awarded to Improve Health Outcomes in NBRC Communities
2024-09-18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2024
Contact: Liz Cross, Rural Healthcare Coordinator
ecross@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to share that $3 million in federal funds have been awarded to healthcare providers throughout the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York. Grant recipients will use the resources to promote and improve the delivery of healthcare services to rural underserved populations. These grants have been made possible through the agency’s partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), through the agency’s Rural Northern Border Outreach Program (RNBR-OP).
Providers located within underserved communities in the NBRC region were invited to apply for funding earlier this year. Awarded projects address a wide variety of healthcare needs throughout the region, ranging from increasing maternal care in rural communities to expanding behavioral health services.
“Improving access to quality healthcare is essential for ensuring the vitality of our rural communities. By addressing gaps in the existing healthcare delivery systems, these investments will improve both the quality of life and the health outcomes for residents in our region,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission. “In building a rural economy that works for all residents it is crucial to have a healthcare system that meets the needs of the people who live here.”
HRSA collaborates with regional partners like the Northern Border Regional Commission to expand access to high-quality healthcare and services in underserved areas to address healthcare disparities, improve health outcomes, and strengthen local health systems, ensuring residents in these rural communities receive the care they need.
Thirteen grants, totaling over $3 million in funds, were awarded. For a full list of projects, please view our full press release.
$1.9 Million Awarded for Economic Development Support Through NBRC, USDA Rural Development Partnership
2024-07-18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 18, 2024
Contact: Marina Bowie
Email: mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
FRANCONIA, NH, July 18, 2024 – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (RD) announced $1.9 million in funding for economic-development projects in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. The awards being made through this partnership will support community-driven initiatives in each state with a particular focus on outdoor recreation, business support and workforce development efforts. Congress has provided funds to the NBRC since 2019 for this partnership, which advances the strategic objectives of both agencies.
“With these awards NBRC and USDA are making investments that will increase rural vitality and economic opportunity throughout the region. These projects will result in new career opportunities, telecommunications infrastructure and place-based investments that increase rural vitality for residents and visitors alike,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC.
“These investments are an example of the creative side of federal funding, because they are the result of a unique partnership that truly benefits those who need our help the most in rural communities,” said USDA Rural Development State Director for Vermont and New Hampshire Sarah Waring, “The Northern Border Regional Commission, through USDA Rural Business Development Grants, are finding new ways to help people live happier, healthier lives through innovative infrastructure that promotes learning, recreation, arts and entertainment, and community gathering opportunities. The Biden-Harris Administration has always understood, and acted upon, the idea that these essential facilities and spaces start, strengthen and sustain the connections that keep community together.”
Funds will support the following efforts across NBRC’s four-state region:
University of Maine System-Farmington (Farmington, ME): $475,000
The University will build on its existing Outdoor Recreation Business Administration program (ORBA), which will become a workforce hub of excellence for Western Maine. ORBA will create a streamlined, degree-granting program to generate qualified, skilled workers for existing and new external employer partners in the Maine outdoor recreation sector.
Franconia Rink Project (Franconia, NH): $475,000
Grant funds will support the construction of a year-round recreation facility for key activities like an outdoor refrigerated ice rink and pickleball and basketball courts. The project will diversify outdoor activity options, attract tourists year-round to the town center, and provide a recreational resource for the local community.
Lake Champlain-Lake George Regional Planning Board $250,000
(Lake George, NY):
Funds will support a regionwide planning project that will assess the availability of cell service and conduct an in-depth analysis of deployable technology options in the Adirondacks. The Regional Planning Board is partnering with the New York State ConnectALL Office to hire a consulting firm to gather signal availability data through drive tests on all state and county roads in Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Warren, and Washington Counties. This effort will also include the purchase of cell availability data gathered through an online app platform to determine the accuracy and validity of each dataset, with the purpose of informing future work statewide.
Hudson Valley Community Foundation (Troy, NY): $225,000
Grant funds will support the development of a new Mechatronics Education and Training Lab (METL). The METL project aims to establish a state-of-the-art mechatronics laboratory. This laboratory will serve as a hub for interdisciplinary learning, workforce development training, and innovation in four interconnected disciplines: mechanics, electrical/electronics, motor control systems, and computer science/information technology.
Catamount Film & Arts Co. (St. Johnsbury, VT): $475,000
Support the renovation and revitalization of the property to include roofing, structural, HVAC, and energy efficiency improvements. Energy efficient upgrades are a top priority as the project will adapt the high-profile property in the center of St. Johnsbury to changing climate conditions and serve as a model for future energy efficient upgrades in the region.
“Thank you, to the state of New Hampshire, to Northern Border Regional Commission and to the United States Department of Agriculture for believing in the positive impact of this amazing ice rink revitalization project. We are excited to continue our fundraising efforts and to exceed the match for our community. We will turn this generous award into a beautiful, refrigerated ice skating rink in the winter and pickleball, basketball, and even roller skating in the summer. As a small town of 1,100 residents, it would be impossible for us to do this without you,” said Jennifer Opalinski of the Franconia Rink Project
“Catamount Arts has worked with USDA and NBRC for the past decade to bring vitality and prosperity to the region through Creative Sector community and economic development initiatives,” said Executive Director Jody Fried. “We are thrilled to be working together on the exciting new Creative Campus project in downtown St. Johnsbury as we further integrate arts, culture and creativity into the fabric of our community.”
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About the NBRC
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.
About USDA Rural Development
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
NBRC Announces $3.6 Million in Spring Awards for Forest Economy Program, New Timber for Transit Program
2024-07-08
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 2, 2024
Contact: Marina Bowie, Program Manager
mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 724-5802
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) approved over $3.6 Million in new awards to three projects as part of the Forest Economy Program and new Timber for Transit Program. These projects fall within the Spring Round of awards, with a second grant round available to prospective applicants in Fall 2024.
Now in its fifth year of funding, the Commission’s Forest Economy Program supports the regional forest-based economy and the industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models across the 4-state NBRC region of Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont.
New in 2024, the Timber for Transit Program is designed to advance the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across the Northern Border region, to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. The program seeks highly competitive projects that can demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities
“Forestry is a traditional heritage industry in our region, one that has shaped communities and served as a vital piece of the economy. These awards demonstrate the type of innovation that will define the forest products industry in the coming years,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC. “We are particularly excited to debut our inaugural Timber for Transit awards which have the potential to foster new markets and economic opportunities.”
Forest Economy Program funding was awarded to the following organization:
- University of Maine System – Orono Campus (ME) - $1,000,000: This project will create capabilities for pilot-scale biochar production, pretreatment, and testing within UMaine's Forest Bioproducts Research Institute (FBRI) to support the growing biochar production industry in the Northern Border Region.
“We are excited to receive this funding from the NBRC which will enhance the UMaine Forest Bioproducts Research Institute’s (FBRI) biomass and biochar testing and analytical capabilities, enabling us to offer top-quality, certified services to the forestry industry in the Northern Border Region and beyond,” said Clayton Wheeler, Director of the FBRI. “Renewable, sustainable biochar is an important new resource with emerging manufacturers in our region which will have a significant, positive economic impact. We anticipate this investment will lead to the establishment of a biochar consortium to expedite further technology commercialization and foster economic growth.”
The first awards made through the new Timber for Transit Program are:
- Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (VT) - $1,778,400: The North Concourse Replacement Project (Project NexT) includes new concourse replacement, four new aircraft gate replacements, four new passenger boarding bridge replacements, new passenger circulation, and hold room space. A standout feature of the building's design is its employment of mass timber framing, structure, and maple ceilings, effectively reducing the embodied carbon footprint of the construction.
“We are proud to make mass timber a central feature of Project NexT, the largest initiative in airport history utilizing mass timber, geothermal energy, and solar power to heat, cool, and operate the new terminal. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is exemplified by this project and supported by this invaluable partnership with the NBRC and this new grant. At the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport, sustainability soars to new heights,” said Nic Longo, Director of Aviation for Leahy BTV.
- Southwest Region Planning Commission (NH) - $911,393: The proposed project will assess the feasibility of meeting a variety of rural transportation infrastructure needs with innovative timber products sourced from regionally available tree species. The project focuses on overcoming challenges and building on opportunities specific to transportation infrastructure in Cheshire County, NH.
“The Timber for Transit Program will help turn two challenges into a solution,” said Southwest Region Planning Commission Executive Director Todd Horner. “On one hand, rural communities in Cheshire County have transportation infrastructure needs, with deteriorating bridges high on the list of priorities. On the other hand, there are gaps in the regional timber economy that prevent the use of local species in engineered wood products, which are emerging as a key sustainable building material of the future. This project will help bridge the gap between these two issues to cultivate the market for locally sourced engineered wood.”
The funds for these programs, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
A second round of applications will be solicited in the fall of 2024. Please refer to the NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for additional announcements about the Forest Economy Program, Timber for Transit Program, and other funding opportunities.
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces New Capacity Program Coordinator Role
2024-07-01
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2024
Contact: Rich Grogan
rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is excited to announce that Sarah Lang will be stepping into the newly created role of Capacity Program Coordinator beginning July 1, 2024. The creation of this role is a direct response to the capacity concerns voiced throughout our region, and a major prioritization as one of the top focus areas outlined in the NBRC’s five-year strategic plan.
“Capacity is foremost in nearly every conversation we have with stakeholders in the region. While the NBRC isn’t able to solve every aspect of this complex issue, we are excited to support our region’s efforts in this area through the talent of our staff. Sarah Lang has been working on capacity issues during her time with the NBRC, and in her previous work in the region, and I look forward to learning how her outreach and engagement guides our future capacity investments,” said NBRC Executive Director Rich Grogan.
“One of the keys to unlocking the potential of rural places is ensuring they have access to the tools that will help them turn ideas into reality. The Commission recognizes we have a role to play in this space and are incredibly excited that Sarah will be leading our capacity efforts to help communities do just that. Sarah is an experienced and knowledgeable member of our team and the entire region is going to benefit from her leadership,” added Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of NBRC.
Prior to joining the NBRC, Sarah served in a capacity-focused role in Southern Vermont, and for the past two years, Sarah has worked as a NBRC Program Specialist, a position that relies heavily on collaboration and an in-depth understanding of the grant making lifecycle. She has established a close working relationship with our Local Development Districts (LDDs) and has a deep knowledge and enthusiasm for capacity-building work, making her well equipped to establish a robust program to address one of our region’s most pressing needs. In her new role, she will work towards expanding development pathways, creating learning networks, and setting up spaces to share best practices.
“I am so thrilled to be taking on this role at NBRC,” Lang said. She added, “Rural capacity is a passion of mine and I look forward to coordinating with local, regional, and state partners in our service area.”
Click for a PDF Version of This Press Release
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.
NBRC Announces $27 Million in 2024 Catalyst Grant Awards for Economic Development
2024-06-27
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2024
Contact: Andrea Smith, Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
CONCORD, N.H. (June 27, 2024) – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announced $27 Million in new awards as part of the Commission’s Catalyst Program spring competition. This includes $18 million in funding made available by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Biden - a key part of his Investing in America agenda.
The 33 Catalyst Awards will go to communities in the Commission’s member states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont and include a broad range of economic development initiatives such as projects that will:
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modernize and expand water and wastewater systems;
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establish business and workforce development programs and facilities;
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grow outdoor recreation infrastructure and economies; and
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construct new childcare, healthcare and community center facilities.
These projects are matched by public and private investments, resulting in more than $124 Million in total investment across the four-state NBRC region. The Commission increased accessibility to its Catalyst Program funds by establishing two funding rounds, resulting in flexibility for applicants and just-in-time funding for projects poised to get started. Funds provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law support the largest infrastructure investments, including foundational infrastructure for expanded housing developments and construction of childcare facilities. These projects will unfold over the next three years, and all of this year’s awardees are listed on the NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov.
The 2024 Catalyst Program spring grant round was highly competitive, with 110 Applications received and more than $106 Million in funding requests. The Catalyst Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the four-state NBRC region. The slate of selected projects advance NBRC investment priorities to reach underserved communities: 23 of the Commission’s awards are going to communities with less than 5,000 people, and 24 to communities and organizations who are receiving their first NBRC funding award.
“With these awards the Commission is making foundational investments that will help build more inclusive economies and address the central needs of small rural towns, such as additional housing and access to childcare,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders. “We have prioritized helping flood ravaged communities, closing gaps in rural health access and making awards to communities and places that are too often underrepresented in public grant making. NBRC investments often spark broader economic revitalization and I believe these awards will have a similar positive impact in the region.”
In Barre City, Vt., one award will address the region’s housing crunch that has been exacerbated by recent flooding:
“This transformative project will create over 125 mixed income housing units in Barre City, and not only provide new places to live for those impacted by last year's floods, but also grow our tax base and create much-needed workforce housing for teachers, nurses and other professionals being recruited to the area,” said Barre City Manager Nicolas Storellicastro.
In Maine, the Mi’kmaq Nation will expand a brook trout hatchery operation, supporting the Tribe’s mission of food sovereignty while also producing enough to market outside the community:
“This grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission and support from the Northern Maine Development Commission in the application process, not only ensures this project will move forward but also allows us to purchase the equipment needed to have the capacity to raise and process triple the amount of fish we currently are. This is a game changer for our fisheries program and the Mi’kmaq Nation’s goal to provide healthy and culturally relevant food to our community and beyond,” said Shannon Hill, Environmental Health Director, Mi’kmaq Environmental Health Department.
First-time applicants at The Walpole Foundation in New Hampshire will pursue work on building an improved space for structured childcare:
“The Walpole Village School, a fifty-year-old preschool, has always been housed in inadequate spaces. This grant enables the Walpole Foundation to move forward in building an energy efficient facility to meet the future needs of children 2-1/2 to 5 years of age,” said Peggy Pschirrer, President, The Walpole Foundation
In New York’s rural Lewis County, funds are being used for the crucial expansion of primary care services:
“This grant award will allow the Health Center to construct a 4-exam room primary care clinic with a lab, provider office, and reception area. This primary care suite will allow for two healthcare providers to care for patients while addressing their health and social needs - focusing on health inequalities, social determinants of health, nutrition/food security, and disease prevention and management,” said Joey Horton, CEO, North Country Family Health Center, Inc.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. An additional $20M will be made available through the 2024 Catalyst Program fall funding round. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about current and future Funding Opportunities.
View a Full List of Awards by State Here
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Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.
Public notice of Commission Meeting
2024-06-07
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
June 21 EST, 9AM-2:30PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
NBRC Announces Availability of $3m To Improve Access to Healthcare
2024-05-02
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2024
Contact: Liz Cross, Rural Healthcare Coordinator
ecross@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
(April 30, 2024) Beginning today, healthcare providers located within the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) service area can apply for grant funds through the agency’s partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). A total of $3m in federal funds will be available through HRSA’s Rural Northern Border Region Outreach Program (RNBR-OP).
This initiative aims to help underserved communities in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York better address their healthcare needs through the expansion and delivery of new and enhanced services. Examples of desired focus areas for proposed projects may include (but are not limited to):
- Mental and behavioral health, healthcare workforce development;
- Community health workers, addressing health disparities, rural hospital financial and operational improvement;
- Impacts of rural hospital closure;
- Care coordination;
- Patient engagement, data analytics/health information technology;
- Telehealth
“When we talk about economic development in rural communities, it is crucial that we look at the full picture of what a community needs. In some places in the NBRC region the most pressing issue facing a rural place isn’t infrastructure - but inadequate access to healthcare. This initiative seeks to focus on community level health needs and address them through increased coordination and collaboration. Healthier communities result in stronger, more inclusive economies that create opportunity for all residents” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
Up to 12 new grants will be awarded, with annual award amounts of up to $225,000 each. At a minimum, approximately one applicant will be awarded from each NBRC state. Eligible applicants should be physically located within the NBRC service area, and may include domestic public, private, non-profit or for-profit organizations (including tribal governments and organizations). Applicants should represent a consortium of participants that include three or more healthcare provider organizations (including the applicant organization). Projects that have been previously awarded will not be able to apply for additional funding unless the intent is to expand the scope of work or area being served by the project.
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for FY24 Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program can be viewed here:
https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/349414
A Rural Norther Border Region Outreach Program NOFO Technical Assistance Webinar is scheduled for May 9, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. ET. The Zoom webinar can accommodate up to 500 participants through the following meeting link:
https://hrsa-gov.zoomgov.com/j/1605060753?pwd=SG45Zy9QSkRTTzNOOWVEdG56RWdEUT09
Applicants can begin the application process now on Grants.gov with a deadline to apply of June 25, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Click to Download a PDF Version of This Press Release
Jobs, Equity, Impact: 2024 Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Grants Available for Northern Border Region
2024-04-04
The Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities program funds projects supporting rural communities in aligning workforce development efforts with economic development plans.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2024
Contact: Andrea Smith, NBRC Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The U.S. Department of Labor (DoL) has released the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the 2024 Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) program. Now in its sixth round, the program runs in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), and the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC). The total pool of funds available across the three Commissions is $49.2 Million.
The WORC initiative seeks to address persistent economic distress and create pathways to high-quality careers for people living or working in the Northern Border, Appalachian, and Lower Mississippi Delta regions, helping them to remain and thrive in these communities. Successful applicants will propose projects that support the initiative’s three Focus Areas: Promoting the availability of good jobs, prioritizing equity, and sustaining impact.
“Our vision for an inclusive economy is one where all residents in our region have the chance to pursue meaningful careers that pay good wages. This program is focused on fostering partnerships in Northern New England and New York that will help workers gain skills to improve their economic standing,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of NBRC.
Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, each WORC grant – ranging from $150,000 to $1.5 million – will fund projects to provide career training and supportive services to people in the Northern Border, Appalachian and Delta regions so they may secure quality jobs in stable, high-demand occupations.
Successful applicants will design projects that demonstrate collaboration with community partners and coordination with existing economic development strategies. Review the WORC Funding Opportunity Announcement and apply.
The NBRC was added to the WORC Initiative for the first time in 2023 and received $4.7MM in awarded funds to support workforce development partners serving our region; Northern Forest Center Inc. (NH), Brattleboro Development Credit Corp. (VT), Vermont Healthcare & Information Technology Education (VT), and Community College of Vermont (VT).
“WORC allowed us [Brattleboro Development Credit Corp.] to dramatically expand our workforce programming, reaching more people and new audiences. As we wrap up our second quarter of WORC programming, BDCC is already developing our second ELL (English Language Learning) supported vocational workforce program, a Healthcare Careers Bootcamp geared to new Americans. By this fall, we'll be leveraging the curricula and partnerships developed in Q1-3 to launch programming targeted to our third target audience — adults without college degrees," said Jack Spanierman, Workforce Education Specialist.
Over the next few weeks, the NBRC will announce information sessions hosted by both DoL and the NBRC to provide additional program details, and information on technical assistance available to potential applicants to the program in the region. The sessions will be free and open to the public, and information will be available via a special WORC link on the NBRC’s homepage, nbrc.gov, and through subsequent releases.
Download a PDF Version of This Press Release
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
NBRC J-1 Visa Program Will Expand to Include Specialist Positions for Northern Border States
2024-03-18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2024
Contact: Liz Cross, Rural Healthcare Coordinator
J1Visa@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
NBRC J-1 Visa Program Will Expand to Include Specialist Positions for Northern Border States
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is excited to announce an expansion to its J-1 Visa Waiver Program to include physicians practicing specialty medicine. Waiver requests will be accepted beginning April 1, 2024.
The NBRC originally launched the program in December 2023 as part of a larger effort to address the national healthcare provider shortage and provide quality, affordable care to rural and underserved communities in the Northern Border region. The program first opened to primary care physicians, but after collaborating with state partners in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York, the NBRC is ready to include waiver applications from specialty care providers within the region. Specific specialist positions through the J-1 Visa Waiver Program will be reviewed case-by-case, based on need in the region and preliminary approval from the state in which the physician will practice.
“We are pleased to announce that thanks to diligent work by the NBRC team as well as support and coordination from our state partners, the Commission is able to expand its J-1 Visa Waiver program on an accelerated timeline. This action will allow the Commission to help address gaps in patient care in the region by meeting existing interest from physicians with expertise in specialty medicine who want to practice here,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
“The Northern Border Regional Commission has been a tremendous asset to New Hampshire, and I’m thrilled to see the expansion of their J-1 Visa Waiver Program to include physicians practicing specialty medicine,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “We have the tools to bring more qualified doctors and caretakers to our region to address health care staffing shortages in our rural communities, we just have to use them. I was proud to advocate for this initiative and I will continue working to close the gaps in health care access and ensure every family can get the quality care they need.”
For more information on the NBRC J-1 visa program, how to apply, and a list of J-1 Program Specialists by state, please visit nbrc.gov.
***
Click to Download a PDF Version of This Press Release
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
New Grant Management System Set to Launch March 11, Rescheduled by One Week for Smoother Applicant Experience
2024-02-29
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 29, 2024
Contact: Andrea Smith, Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission is excited to unveil a new Grant Management System (GMS) that will make the application process smoother and more organized for Catalyst, Forest Economy Program (FEP) and Timber for Transit (T4T) applicants. After careful consideration, the launch date for the new GMS has been rescheduled for Monday, March 11 (previously March 4) to provide the best experience for both staff and applicants. The rescheduled system deployment date will push back pre-application deadlines by one week.
An updated pre-application schedule for all NBRC programs is as follows:
- March 11: GMS open for Spring Round pre-application submissions.
- March 22: Spring Round pre-applications for all programs due by 5:00 p.m. EST.
- April 5: Responses to all Spring Round applicants will be sent no later than this date.
The original deadline for all Spring program applications remains May 3, 2024.
Further pre-application guidance will be made available through the NBRC website and its program materials. Training and guidance specific to the GMS process will be made available in advance of the March 11 launch, as well as dedicated GMS-related Office Hours during the pre-application window of March 11-22.
Click to Download a PDF Version of This Press Release
***
About the NBRC
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2024 Forest Economy Program
2024-02-07
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 7, 2024
Contact: Marina Bowie, Program Manager
mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce preliminary details of the Forest Economy Program (FEP) grant application opportunity. With this program, the Commission intends to support the forest-based economy and to assist in the forest industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models across the four-state NBRC region.
Fiscal Year 2024 federal appropriations have not been finalized. An estimated $4 million may be made available for awards under this FOA subject to the availability of future appropriations. Any selection and award under this FOA is subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
“The Commission’s Forest Economy Program recognizes that government has a role to play in supporting innovation in the forestry industry. We are excited about this funding opportunity, which is well suited for communities and institutions seeking to leverage our location in the Northern Forest as a means to grow the local and regional economy and increase connections to the working landscape,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC.
“The Forest Economy Program is focused on growing economic development opportunities from one of the NBRC region’s critical and unique assets- the forest. From projects that are opening new markets for regionally sourced forest feedstocks, industry infrastructure investments, and workforce training initiatives, the program is supporting adaption and innovation in the forest sector to ensure that it remains a vibrant and vital part of the region’s rural economies. NBRC’s investment of another $4 million for two rounds of 2024 funding is a fantastic opportunity,” said Joe Short, Vice President, Northern Forest Center.
Two online information sessions will be available to provide interested applicants with a more in-depth presentation of the program. Sessions will be held on February 12 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. and February 13 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. To access a program overview, eligibility information, or to register for one of the FEP presentations, please visit the Forest Economy Program page on the NBRC website.
These federal resources will be competitively awarded through two funding rounds. Applicants are required to express interest through a pre-application, which must be submitted using NBRC’s online Grants Management System by 5:00pm EST on March 15, 2024 [Round 1] or September 6, 2024 [Round 2]. Questions about eligibility and the pre-application or application should be directed to the NBRC’s Forest Economy Program Manager, Marina Bowie at mbowie@nbrc.gov or (603) 369-3001.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
***
About the NBRC
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.t
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Availability of $25m in New 2024 Timber for Transit Program
2024-02-05
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 5, 2024
Contact: Marina Bowie, Program Manager
mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Availability of $25m in New 2024 Timber for Transit Program
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce preliminary details of the Timber for Transit Program. The Timber for Transit Program is designed to advance the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications. Highly competitive projects will demonstrate and widely promote the utility of high-value forest products (e.g. glued laminated timber, cross laminated timber, composite materials, etc.) in transportation infrastructure and commit to enhancing climate resilience in rural communities.
“Some of our region’s most iconic and historic transportation structures, such as covered bridges, were constructed with wood. The Commission seeks to build on this legacy by harnessing the innovation of the forest products industry to support the construction of modern infrastructure that incorporates wood materials. This sector represents both a market opportunity for the industry as well as a means to utilize more climate friendly materials in building community centered projects that serve travelers and passengers,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
Information sessions are scheduled for Monday, February 12 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. EST and Tuesday, February 13 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. EST to provide a more in-depth presentation of the Timber for Transit program. Additional information and registration links are available here.
These federal resources will be competitively awarded through two funding rounds with a minimum of $25m available across both rounds in 2024. Applicants are required to express interest through a pre-application, which must be submitted using NBRC’s online Grants Management System by 5:00 p.m. EST on March 15, 2024 [Round 1] or September 6, 2024 [Round 2]. Questions about eligibility and the pre-application or application should be directed to the NBRC’s Timber for Transit Program Manager, Marina Bowie at mbowie@nbrc.gov or (603) 369-3001.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
***
About the NBRC
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Click Here for a PDF Version of This Press Release
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces $4m in Strategic Forest Economy Investments
2024-01-31
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 31, 2024
Contact: Marina Bowie, Program Manager
mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 724-5802
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces $4m in Strategic Forest Economy Investments
At its winter meeting, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) approved over $4 Million in new awards to six projects as part of the Forest Economy Program (FEP). The Commission has prioritized investments that support the regional forest-based economy and the industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models across the four-state NBRC region of Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. The six organizations receiving funding include:
- University of Maine (Orono, ME) – $745,869: This project aims to accelerate the transition from plastics to more sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable forest-based packaging in the consumer product sector. This will be achieved through rapid prototyping and the development of a pilot scale production of high-value molded pulp products.
- Our Katahdin (Millinocket, ME) – $1,000,000: Awarded funds will be used to support critical water infrastructure needs, which support ongoing efforts to revitalize the 1,400-acre former Great Northern Paper mill site in Millinocket.
- Vermont State University and Smokey House Center (Lyndon and Danby, VT) – $995,146: This collaborative project will develop a Forest Innovation Hub to support commercialization and innovation in the northern forest region. Funding will also support the launch of a pilot project at the Smokey House Center to showcase the economic and ecological benefits of building with regional wood products via the design of prototypical timber structures.
- VT Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (Montpelier, VT) – $565,641: The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR), in partnership with key collaborators, will use funds to support Phase One the Vermont Forest Future Strategic Roadmap. Project goals include the development of MyForestWorks, a collaborative outreach effort to educate communities about the benefits of wood energy, forest management, and wood products; and the creation of a Vermont Forest Innovation Cooperative, envisioned as a network of education, applied research, manufacturing, and industry professionals working to support emerging forest-based businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Paul Smith’s College (Paul Smiths, NY) – $1,000,000: Funds will support essential wastewater infrastructure improvements on its rural campus in Franklin County, New York. This critical investment will help strengthen the institution that houses one of the country’s premier forestry programs.
- The Research Foundation for SUNY (Albany, NY) – $148,856: This project will complete Whole Building Lifecycle Analysis assessments for six or more mass timber buildings in the NBRC territory and the Northeast. The result will provide forest industry businesses with a clear evaluation of their forest products in the carbon economy.
“A thriving forest economy is critical to the success of rural communities across the region, which is why the Commission has made a strategic decision to elevate this sector in our grant making. We are excited to announce these investments in innovative projects that will contribute to growth of the forestry industry,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
“UMaine is committed to addressing sustainability challenges, and we are very proud of the fact that we can leverage our heritage forestry industry to accelerate the transition from plastics to forest-based packaging. This project will also contribute to the growth of our capabilities in the Advancing Manufacturing sector that will impact the state of Maine, and beyond,” said University of Maine President and UMS Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Joan Ferrini-Mundy.
“On behalf of the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR), I am thrilled to learn that our proposal to the NBRC, which aims to support the implementation of the recently completed Vermont Forest Future Strategic Roadmap and also bolster the Regional Forest Products Industry, has been funded. With this generous support from the NBRC, Vermont FPR and our forest sector partners will be able to implement the strategies and actions contained within the Roadmap to strengthen, modernize, promote, and protect Vermont’s forest products sector and broader forest economy,” said Oliver Pierson, Director, Forests Division, VT FPR.
“We are very grateful to the NBRC for their support as we work to better quantify the environmental benefits of durable wood products from managed forests, and help the landowners and forest industries benefit from their important contributions to our economy and environment,” said Paul Crovella of The Research Foundation for SUNY.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The Commission anticipates announcing the availability of funds for a spring 2024 FEP round in the near future. NBRC’s Timber for Transit program, geared towards organizations and communities interested in utilizing wood in transportation infrastructure, as well the Commission’s flagship Catalyst Program, will accept pre-applications through March 15. For more information and additional announcements about NBRC programs, please refer to www.nbrc.gov.
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The NBRC Forest Economy Program supports projects ranging from forest economy workforce development to demonstration of new wood product innovations, and projects that assist communities impacted by the decline in parts of the sector.
Click to Download a PDF Version of this Press Release
Maine Governor Janet Mills Elected as Third State Co-Chair for the Northern Border Regional Commission
2024-01-26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 26, 2024
Contact: Rich Grogan, Executive Director
rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Maine Governor Janet Mills Elected as Third State Co-Chair for the Northern Border Regional Commission
During the 2024 NBRC Winter Commission Meeting, Maine Governor Janet Mills was elected as State Co-Chair by her fellow governors. As State Co-Chair, Governor Mills will work alongside the NBRC Federal Co-Chair, Chris Saunders, to provide leadership in support of the continued growth and development of the NBRC as it serves communities within the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York.
Maine Department of Economic & Community Development Commissioner Heather Johnson will continue to serve as the Governor’s Alternate, representing Governor Mills at Commission meetings.
The State-Co-chair position is emblematic of the NBRC’s Federal-State partnership, as the combined roles of Federal Co-Chair and State Co-Chair function similarly to an Executive Committee of a Board of Directors, working together on policy matters before they reach the full Commission. Each State Governor and their Alternate have the freedom to bring their own approach to the role, resulting in a dynamic partnership with the Federal Co-Chair and NBRC team during each new term.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome the leadership of Governor Mills as State Co-Chair of the Commission. The Governor has a well thought out vision for economic growth in Maine and our region will benefit from the creativity and dedication of her and her team,” said Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
“In Maine, we’ve grown our economy at a faster rate than much larger states by investing in our people and the things they need to succeed. I look forward to applying lessons from our success as I work with my fellow Governors and our federal partners to spur economic growth throughout the Northern Border region,” said Governor Janet Mills. “I extend my gratitude to Governor Sununu for his dedicated work as State Co-Chair over the last four years and thank the Maine Congressional Delegation for its continued work to provide federal resources for this vital organization.”
Since January 2020, the State Co-Chair position has been filled by New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu and his Governor’s Alternate, Commissioner Taylor Caswell.
***
About the NBRC
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Click to Download a PDF Version of This Press Release
NBRC Announces Availability of $50m in 2024 Catalyst Program Funding
2024-01-12
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 12, 2024
Contact: Adrianne Harrison, Catalyst Program Manager
aharrison@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Availability of $50m in 2024 Catalyst Program Funding
Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the NBRC region.
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce preliminary details of how communities in the region can apply for the $50 million in funding that will be available through the 2024 Catalyst Program. The Catalyst Program supports a broad range of economic development activities that create economic opportunity for residents in rural places across Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. Examples of the types of projects the Commission may support include, but are not limited to: modernizing and expanding water and wastewater systems; revitalizing transportation infrastructure; establishing workforce development programs and facilities; growing outdoor recreation infrastructure and economies; and constructing new childcare and healthcare facilities. The Commission initially plans to make up to $50 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding available and upon completion of the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations process, anticipates issuing a revised program announcement to make additional funds available.
"We’re looking for community centered projects that seek to improve life for people who reside in the NBRC region. In one community that may be an expansion of a childcare program that allows more parents to participate in the workforce - in another it may be a new water line that means a manufacturing business can expand,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC. “The collaboration between the Biden Administration and Congress that led to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has brought a historic level of funding to NBRC and we are focused on using these resources to increase the vibrancy of rural communities.”
These federal resources will be competitively awarded through two funding rounds with a minimum of $30 million available in Round 1 and a minimum of $20 million available in Round 2. Interested applicants can access a program overview, eligibility information, and upcoming information session details on NBRC’s website. Applicants are required to express interest through a pre-application, which must be submitted using NBRC’s online Grants Management System by 5:00pm EST on March 15, 2024 [Round 1] or September 6, 2024 [Round 2]. Initial inquiries concerning suitability and integration with economic development priorities should be directed to each NBRC State’s Program Manager (contacts listed below). Questions about eligibility and the pre-application or application itself should be directed to the NBRC’s Catalyst Program Director, Adrianne Harrison, at aharrison@nbrc.gov or (603) 369-3001.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
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Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
***
NBRC State Program Managers
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Steve Fortier
(207) 624-7448 (603)-688-5918
charlotte.mace@maine.gov steven.j.fortier@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
(518) 473-3694 (802) 398-5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
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Public notice of Commission Meeting
2024-01-12
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
January 26 EST, 10AM-11:30AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission & USDA Rural Development Announce $2.85 Million for Economic Development Projects in Four States
2023-12-11
MONTPELIER, Vt., December 11, 2023 – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (RD) announced $2.85 million in funding for economic-development projects in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. The awards being made through this partnership will support community-driven initiatives in each state with a particular focus on outdoor recreation, business support and workforce development efforts. Congress has provided funds to the NBRC since 2019 for this partnership, which advances the strategic objectives of both agencies.
“When we invest in economic development initiatives that are a priority for rural communities, we strengthen the entire region. This collaboration brings together two federal agencies, whose sole focus is on improving the day-to-day lives of people who live in rural America. With this focus and knowledge of the region we are thrilled to announce this slate of projects that will create economic opportunity, increase access to health care and collectively positions the region for a strong future,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC.
“We are proud to partner with the Northern Border Regional Commission across four states to help rural residents build their better future,” said Sarah Waring, State Director for USDA Rural Development in Vermont and New Hampshire. “With today’s announcement, organizations in the Twin States will provide more and better jobs for workers, modern recreational facilities for tourists and residents, technical assistance for employers, and 21st century learning opportunities for students. This funding is a reflection of the NBRC’s skill in making transformative impacts across a wide spectrum of community-development initiatives.”
Funds will support the following efforts across NBRC’s four-state region:
Friends of Quarry Road (Waterville, ME) — $712,500
Public Park improvements to improve the region’s outdoor recreation capacity, including construction of a guest services building, multi-use trail, parking lot with smart charger stations and onsite facilities and water. This award will also address parking, draining and stormwater management issues.
Coös Economic Development Council (Lancaster, NH) — $144,260
Support of the LEAN In (Leadership, Expansion, Advancement & Networking) program which advances workforce and business development objectives in Coös County to better connect businesses with workforce advancement needs, support business expansion with our Canadian partners, and build pipelines for youth and adults via workshop programs, high school technical learning programs, and casual learning from professional networking groups.
Upper Valley Snowsports/Whaleback (Enfield, NH) — $100,000
Purchase of additional snowmaking guns, an additional water pump and upgraded electrical supply, effectively doubling snowmaking capacity. The additional snowmaking equipment will allow the mountain to maximize the use of their water supply during limited early season snowmaking windows and expect total snowmaking volume to increase in the earliest part of the winter season.
White Mountain Science, Inc. (Littleton, NH) — $216,048
Creation of an expansive STEM Skill and Workforce Development program. This project will provide a variety of workshops that increase workforce development and community engagement within Grafton and Coös Counties. Workshops will include topics in computer science, technology, design, engineering, artistry, and problem solving.
Shugah Valley Snow Riders (Claremont, NH) — $252,190
Purchase of new grooming equipment: a groomer, drag, and trimming attachment. Modern groomers have almost double the horsepower and can safely navigate challenging terrain even in icy conditions. The new drag is required because the trail systems are narrow and shared with ATVs. The trail trimming attachment with save volunteer hours and improve rider safety.
Clarkson University (Potsdam, NY) — $412,500
Clarkson’s Lewis School of Health Sciences, nationally known for preparing students and medical providers for rural healthcare, will train EMTs and paramedics impacting multiple NBRC counties affected by the healthcare workforce crisis. The project will add four high fidelity simulation labs to increase skill level of EMT and paramedic students and add to the number of full time EMS providers in St. Lawrence County.
Visiting Nurses Association of Central New York (Syracuse, NY) — $300,000
Funds will allow the VNA to expand their existing home care nurse residency program into Oneida County, while also improving recruitment, retention and preparation of novice nurses. The program will accept new applicants every two months with a goal of graduating 80% of participants and decreasing the turnover rate of novice nurses while creating a homecare nursing staff dedicated to addressing the social determinants of health that play a critical role in the well-being of patients.
Franklin County Field Days, Inc. (St. Albans, VT) — $25,000
Franklin County Field Days (FCFD) has undertaken a feasibility study to determine the final location for their annual event as the current location will not be available going forward. These funds will be utilized for preacquisition legal expenses specific to the purchase of a property suitable for relocation.
Vermont Adaptive (Killington, VT) — $500,000
Development of a multi-year facility for people with disabilities to increase access to physical activity and outdoor recreation.
The Space on Main (Bradford, VT) — $80,687.50
Expanded STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education programming for all ages at the Space on Main site. Funds will be used to outfit a basement space as a youth innovation lab and for personnel support.
Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (Montpelier, VT) — $106,812.50
Funds will be used to support capacity at the local development district level, including the provision of technical assistance, financial resource planning, and pre-development work in support of industrial park and facility development projects.
“Clarkson University and our Lewis School of Health Sciences strive to have an impact on our communities as well as the career trajectories of our students. In partnership with St. Lawrence Health, we are the provider of EMS training for our regional community and just launched a new paramedic training program,” said Marc P. Christensen, Ph.D., P.E. “In a more rural community, one of the greatest challenges in teaching clinical skills and scenarios is access to real patient populations during the learning process. With our federal and New York State partners supporting the NBRC and USDA initiatives, our development of simulation labs will allow our students and community first responders to encounter and practice real world scenarios with frequency.”
"The Shugah Valley Snow Riders are grateful for the generous support of NBRC and USDA. These grant funds will help us buy a new groomer and replace our existing machine that is 26 years old. Without the grant funding, we would not be able to make this sort of investment. Thanks to NBRC and USDA, our 65 miles of trails will be well-maintained for multiple types of trail users--including snowmobilers, hikers, dog walkers, dog teams, and cross-country skiers-- for many years to come so we can all access and enjoy the trails during winter months," said Roger Wright, President of the Shugah Valley Snow Riders.
***
About the NBRC
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
About USDA Rural Development
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
NBRC Announces Initiative to Bring Physicians To Rural Areas of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York
2023-12-04
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 5, 2023
Contact: Liz Cross, Rural Healthcare Coordinator
J1Visa@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces the launch of its J-1 Visa Waiver Program in collaboration with Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont in an ongoing effort to provide rural and underserved areas with adequate access to quality, affordable healthcare. The new program will help address the national healthcare provider shortage by easing the visa requirements for physicians who are trained in the United States if they agree to practice in underserved areas of the Northern Border Region. NBRC will recommend the U.S. Department of Homeland Security waive what is known as the “two-year home-country physical presence requirement” for eligible physicians seeking to work at health care institutions and practices within the NBRC territory.
“Rural communities face many challenges to economic well-being. Access to healthcare is one such challenge that is particularly difficult for rural areas to address on their own and is critical to maintaining a vibrant community,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders. “As part of the Biden Administration’s commitment to rural communities, it is with great excitement that the Commission undertakes this effort to address the region’s healthcare workforce shortages and bolster one of the underlying elements that make economic development possible.”
The NBRC will consider recommending a waiver on behalf of eligible J-1 physicians who will work in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA) and Medically Underserved Areas (MUA). Eligible physicians will work in primary or mental health care for at least three years and 40 hours per week within a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated HPSA or MUA of the Northern Border Region. The program is modeled, in part, after the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) successful J-1 Visa waiver program.
State partners in New York and New Hampshire showed early support in favor of implementing a waiver expansion program in the Northern Border Region. The Commission acknowledges the Members of Congress from the NBRC region who have encouraged the Agency to utilize its authority to develop this program.
“The Northern Border Regional Commission has been a tremendous asset to New Hampshire, and I’m thrilled to see the launch of their new initiative to address health care staffing shortages in our rural communities,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “We have the tools to bring more qualified doctors and physicians to our region to address gaps in health care access and ensure every family can get the quality care they need. I was proud to advocate for this initiative, and I will continue working to strengthen health care access in northern New Hampshire and throughout the region.”
“Following my advocacy, the Northern Border Regional Commission will launch its J-1 Visa Program to help provide rural and underserved areas across Upstate New York and the North Country with accessible, quality, and affordable healthcare helping to alleviate the physician shortage I have been working tirelessly to address,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. “Last week, I heard directly from a NY-21 constituent in Copenhagen about how the physician shortage in her area was affecting her family’s access to healthcare, during my Medicare Telephone Town Hall. These physicians will provide critical medical services in rural areas of our states currently suffering from physician staffing shortages.”
“The shortage of healthcare providers can present many challenges for residents who live in rural areas to stay healthy,” said New York Secretary of State, Robert J. Rodriguez. “Through our Northern Border Regional Commission program, the New York Department of State works every day to ensure equal opportunities for all New Yorkers and is proud to have played a role in the expansion of these waivers to improve access to physicians within underserved rural communities.”
“In rural communities like ours, the chronic physician shortage has very real implications for the people we serve. Longer wait times for appointments, required travel for people who may already have transportation challenges and reduced time with physicians – all of this impacts the quality of care provided to patients. The J-1 Waiver program will help alleviate some of these obstacles by making it possible for more physicians to remain in this country and practice,” said Lisa Mark, MD, Regional Physician Leader, University of Vermont Health Network Medical Group.
“Our gratitude to the NBRC for bringing this initiative forward and thank you to government leaders and elected officials for their support. This program is a great of example of what can be accomplished when we work together to be sure those living in rural areas have equitable access to necessary care,” offered Alice Hyde Medical Center and CVPH President Michelle LeBeau.
“Access to quality health care is vital for all New Yorkers, which is why the State Health Department continues to work with the Northern Border Regional Commission and the Department of State to expand these waivers to provide greater access to physicians within our underserved rural communities—a commitment to ensuring quality health services are available to everyone, no matter where they live,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “The Department continues to focus on ensuring our rural communities have access to critical health care services, including transportation and emergency medical services.”
Requests for waivers through the J-1 Visa Waiver Program must first be sponsored by a state within NBRC’s region, all of which have collaborated closely to complement each state’s pre-existing Conrad 30 waiver programs. Contact information for J-1 Program specialists in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont can be found on nbrc.gov.
***
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Northern Border Regional Commission – U.S. Economic Development Administration Partner to Award $3 Million in Maine, New Hampshire, New York & Vermont
2023-10-26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 26, 2023
Contact: Andrea Smith, Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces $3 million in funding for four projects through a partnership between the NBRC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to amplify both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities. The four awards will support vital water and wastewater infrastructure in rural communities across the region.
“These investments will help rural communities build and improve infrastructure that is critical to economic growth. Recognizing that the cost of these projects are often too expensive for residents and rate payers in small towns to undertake on their own, NBRC has prioritized the needs of very small communities in its grant making,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders. “We are proud of this partnership with EDA, which will deliver this funding to four small towns all of which have populations under 5,000 people.”
The NBRC has received a special appropriation since 2018 for these awards, which has resulted in working closely with the EDA to award funds to projects that meet the strategic objectives of both agencies.
The total of the awards made in 2023 is $3,000,000, and a summary of each of the awarded projects can be found on this PDF Here
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Partnership Awards in Healthcare
2023-09-29
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 26, 2023
Contact: Liz Cross
ecross@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces
Partnership Awards in Healthcare
The Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP) has awarded the Rural Health Redesign Center Organization (RHRCO) a supplemental award in the amount of $1,170,000 to support organizations across the Northern Border Region with focused one-year healthcare programming. In collaboration with the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), this funding is being awarded to seven (7) organizations in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to support innovative programs designed to enhance healthcare services to rural residents in all four states. In alignment with the Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program, RHRCO will administer the funding and provide support to the awardees over the funding period from October 1, 2023, to September 29, 2024. The selected programs will address issues in OUD and SUD, leadership development, food insecurity, pediatric oral health, mobile integrated care, addressing health equity and enhancing access to primary care.
"Access to health care, hunger and substance use disorder are some of the most pressing health challenges facing rural communities. Our work is centered on improving the quality of life for residents in the rural communities of Northern New England and New York and each of these projects will further that goal by addressing these community needs. We are proud to partner with the Health Resources Services Administration and the Rural Health Redesign Center Organization to make these investments of federal funds in our region,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission.
US DOL awards $44M to support job training, services for workers in Appalachian, lower Mississippi Delta, Northern Border regions
2023-09-15
U.S. Department of Labor | September 14, 2023
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor announced today – in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission, Delta Regional Authority and Northern Border Regional Commission – more than $44 million in awards to provide career training and supportive services to help workers in these areas secure good jobs in stable, high-demand occupations.
“The Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities initiative leverages federal partnerships and engages local communities to develop strategies to prepare workers for good jobs in high-demand industries, such as broadband and cybersecurity, clean energy, healthcare and advanced manufacturing” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Brent Parton. “In addition to helping people in the Appalachian and lower Mississippi Delta regions, we’ve expanded the initiative to include the Northern Border regions of northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York to advance the administration’s efforts to invest in disadvantaged communities overburdened by pollution.”
NBRC Announces $43.6 Million in 2023 Catalyst Grant Awards for Economic Development As Part of Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda
2023-08-23
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 23, 2023
Contact: Andrea Smith, Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
CONCORD, N.H. (August 23, 2023) – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announced $43.6 Million in new awards, including nearly $20 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as part of the Commission’s inaugural Catalyst Program competition. The 66 Catalyst Awards will go to communities in the Commission’s member states of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont and include a broad range of economic development initiatives such as projects that will: modernize and expand water and wastewater systems; revitalize transportation infrastructure; establish workforce development programs and facilities; grow outdoor recreation infrastructure and economies; and construct new childcare and healthcare facilities. These projects are matched by public and private investments, resulting in $208.5 Million in total investment across the four-state NBRC region. With the addition of funds provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Commission increased the scale of investments in infrastructure projects and funded the largest awards in its history. These projects will unfold over the next three years, and all of this year’s awardees are listed on the NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov.
The 2023 Catalyst Program grant round was highly competitive, with 187 Applications received and more than $151 Million in funding requests. The Catalyst Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the four-state NBRC region. The slate of selected projects advance NBRC investment priorities to reach underserved communities and build a resilient region: 35 of the Commission’s awards are going to communities with less than 5,000 people, and 30 to communities and organizations who are receiving their first NBRC funding award.
”A hallmark of the NBRC is its ability to flexibly support a broad range of needs in rural communities in our region. That quality is a common thread among the awards the Commission is announcing today. These awards include central components of infrastructure upon which successful economies are built, and range from pipes, roads and fiber lines, to childcare programs, outdoor recreation infrastructure, working waterfronts, and everything in between. The Commission’s ability to incorporate that flexibility into grant making is directly attributable to the once in a generation support that came from President Biden and Congress working together to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the historic level of annual funding Congress included in last year’s spending bills,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and his vision for growing the economy from the middle out and bottom up – Bidenomics – is creating opportunity across the country. Already, as a result of legislation passed by President Biden, the Biden-Harris Administration has awarded $280 billion in funding for 37,000 infrastructure projects across the country. Companies have announced over $500 billion in investments in the United States since President Biden took office, and the Administration has helped over 20 million households save money on their internet costs.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. Depending on the availability of funds in 2024, the NBRC anticipates another round of Catalyst awards in 2024. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about current and future Funding Opportunities.
Click Here for the full Press Release which includes awardees by State
Public notice of Commission Meeting
2023-08-03
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
August 15 EST, 9AM-2:30PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2023 Forest Economy Program Information Sessions
2023-07-24
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has scheduled two information sessions in support of the fall, 2023 Forest Economy Program (FEP) grant application opportunity, and we invite any parties interested in applying to this year’s program to attend one of the sessions.Each session will consist of an overview of the program, and there will be plenty of time for questions.
Eligible organizations, which include but are not limited to nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), are currently able to access grant application details via the NBRC’s website.
For the full details and press release, please click here
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2023 Forest Economy Partnership Awards
2023-06-30
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2023
Contact: Marina Bowie
mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 724-5802
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) approved over $2.5 Million in new awards to three projects on June 21, 2023, as part of the Forest Economy Partnership (FEP). The organizations receiving these awards are:
- St. John Valley Technology Center (ME) - $946,140: The award will support Forest Technology Programming at the SJVTC by ensuring students have access to the most up to date equipment utilized in the forest industry.
- University of New Hampshire (NH) - $ 998,348: “From Stump to Structure: Accelerating Adoption of CLT Made from Local Species” will support the northern border region’s forest industry log and lumber [suppliers] by accelerating the adoption of CLT [demand] made from local New England tree species.
- Jesup Memorial Library (ME) - $600,000: The Jesup Library’s Mass Timber Expansion Project will build an 11,400 square foot addition to the existing building in Bar Harbor, Maine, using locally sourced eastern hemlock CLT.
A full version for this Press release with more details can be found here
Notice of Public Meeting
2023-06-14
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
June 21 EST, 10AM-11AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Webinar Series focused on Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Grants
2023-05-04
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Webinar Series focused on Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Grants
Webinar series will include eligibility and application information for the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities program, available in the Northern Border region for the first time.
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is excited to announce a series of webinar information sessions hosted by both the U.S. Department of Labor (DoL), and the NBRC, in collaboration with its technical assistance provider, Chamberlin/Dunn. The webinars will provide program details in support of the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) program, for which program materials are now available online. The program supports initiatives directed at workforce development partnerships in support of local and regional workforces’ employment and training needs, while also recognizing the need to expand access to supportive services.
The first session will be hosted by the DoL, on Friday, May 12, 2023, from 10:30AM – 12:00PM, via Zoom. Interested parties should register via the DoL’s WFGPS platform in advance. The webinar will be recorded and available online for those unable to make the 10:30AM event on the 12th.
Additionally, along with its technical assistance provider, Chamberlin/Dunn, the NBRC is hosting a technical assistance series for potential applicants in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont, to address specific components of the 2023 WORC funding opportunity. This series of webinars will be held the weeks of May 15 and May 22. See registration links for each webinar in the descriptions below.
A full version for this Press release with more details can be found here
NBRC Announces Availability of Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Grants (WORC)
2023-04-19
The Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities program, administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, is available in the Northern Border region for the first time.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DoL) has released the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the 2023 Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) program. The program supports initiatives directed at workforce development partnerships in support of local and regional workforces’ employment and training needs, while also recognizing the need to expand access to supportive services. The program has run successfully for multiple rounds in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and the Delta Regional Authority (DRA). 2023 will be the first year that funds are available in partnership with the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC). The total pool of funds available across the three Commissions is $44.2 Million.
Successful applicants will design projects that demonstrate collaboration with community partners and coordination with existing economic development strategies. Review the WORC Funding Opportunity Announcement and apply.
Please clicke HERE for a PDF of the FULL PRESS RELEASE for additional program details
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2023 Catalyst Program
2023-03-16
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2023 Catalyst Program
With Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, program will stimulate economic development and growth
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2023 Catalyst Program grant application opportunity. The Catalyst Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the four-state NBRC region. As part of the program the Commission expects to fund a wide variety of economic development projects in categories that include, but are not limited to infrastructure, workforce development, outdoor recreation, and childcare in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. The Commission will make a historic level of funding available through the program, up to $45 million in grants, including up to $20 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Applicants are required to express interest through a Letter of Interest, which must be submitted to loi@nbrc.gov by April 21st at 5:00 PM.
Please clicke HERE for a PDF of the FULL PRESS RELEASE for additional program details.
Notice of Public Meeting
2023-01-20
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
January 31st, 9:00 AM-2:30 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2023 Forest Economy Program Information Sessions
2023-01-20
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18, 2023
Contact: Marina Bowie, NBRC Program Manager mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has scheduled four information sessions in support of the 2023 Forest Economy Program (FEP) grant application opportunity, and we invite any parties interested in applying to this year’s program to attend one of the sessions. Each session will consist of an overview of the program, and there will be plenty of time for questions.
Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), are currently able to access grant application details via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov/content/FEP, and attendees are encouraged to review program materials prior to attending. NBRC State Program Managers, and FEP Advisory Board members will be in attendance as schedules allow.
All information sessions will be held via Zoom and registration is required. Information for each is below:
January 25, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZModO-vqjMqHNKcTXhDQhRU6Z6zohbpiH_0
January 26, 2023 01:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIqdOCtqTIpE9dAw5ntCEKUYNaWSsruayzF
February 2, 2023 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpf-GoqjsrGtHquU3kAn5ieA9e0ywhjtf3
February 3, 2023 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrd-iprjsrE9db-W84H4PqaWWpjQoNC5nA
Potential applicants for the Spring 2023 FEP grant round must express interest through Letters of Interest, which must be submitted by March 10th at 5PM. Letters of Interest will be evaluated by a 9- member Advisory Board, consisting of representatives from each of the four NBRC states. The Advisory Board will determine which applicants will be invited to submit a full application, which will be due April 28th, with anticipation of awards in June, 2023.
Information sessions for the Fall 2023 FEP grant round will be held in July and/or August of 2023.
For those considering an application, regardless of your ability to attend an information session, please connect with the NBRC Forest Economy Program Manager, Marina Bowie, the NBRC Program Manager in the State(s) where the proposed project will take place, and/or a Forest Economy Program Advisory Board member. These individuals will be happy to assist you as you develop your projects and application(s):
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Steve Fortier
(207) 624-7448 (603) 271-6305
charlotte.mace@maine.gov steven.j.fortier@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
(518) 473-3694 (802) 398-5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
Forest Economy Program Advisory Board:
NBRC Representative: Joe Short jshort@northernforest.org (603) 491-2651
***
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2023 Forest Economy Program Grant Round
2023-01-20
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 7, 2022
Contact: Marina Bowie, Forest Economy Program Manager
mbowie@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2023 Forest Economy Program (FEP) grant application opportunity. With this program, the Commission intends to support the forest-based economy and to assist in the forest industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models across the four-state NBRC region. Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), are now able to access a program overview of the FEP via NBRC’s website. The Commission will make up to $7 million in grants available, with a maximum award of $1 Million.
“There is an intrinsic link between the northern forest and the economic success of communities across the NBRC region. The program we are announcing today places a renewed focus on supporting businesses and communities in Northern New England and New York as they seek out new and innovative markets for wood products,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
Whether funded directly or through partnerships, funds will be awarded to support projects in the forest economy, which may include one (or multiple) of the following:
- Community development projects that support the diversified use of forests within the Northern Border Regional Commission’s service area for economic activity to include wood products and advanced materials manufacturing, as well as for other economic activity that utilizes northern border forests sustainably and demonstrates planning for climate resiliency.
- Workforce [re] training and development projects for the purpose of building the skills and recruiting and retaining the workforce needed for forest businesses.
- Marketing/communication and education projects that promote the environmental and climate benefits of forest management and forest products in ways that strengthen markets for wood products.
- Business planning and technical assistance projects that enhance the viability and sustainability of new and existing forest businesses.
- Public infrastructure projects that directly support the forest industry, and/or that demonstrate the use of wood-based products in public infrastructure.
Please refer to the 2023 Forest Economy Program Overview located on NBRC’s website for additional information including examples of projects that fit within the above categories.
Potential applicants must express interest through Letters of Interest (LOI) and will have two opportunities to submit: March 10th, 2023 by 5pm, or September 22th, 2023 by 5pm. LOIs will be evaluated by a 9-member Advisory Board, consisting of forest economy representatives from each of the four NBRC states. The Advisory Board will determine which applicants will be invited to submit a full application, due either April 28th or November 3rd, depending on when the Letter of Interest is submitted. Visit the NBRC website to view the full 2023 program timeline.
For those considering applications in 2023, please contact NBRC Forest Economy Program Manager Marina Bowie, the NBRC State Program Manager in the State(s) where the proposed project will take place, and/or a Forest Economy Program Advisory Board member. These individuals will be happy to assist you as you develop your projects and applications:
NBRC State Program Managers
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Steve Fortier
(207) 624-7448 (603) 271-6305
charlotte.mace@maine.gov steven.j.fortier@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
(518) 473-3694 (802) 398-5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
Forest Economy Program Advisory Board
NBRC Representative: Joe Short jshort@northernforest.org (603) 491-2651
Maine: Dana Doran executivedirector@maineloggers.com (207) 688-8195
Eric Kingsley kingsley@inrsllc.com (207) 233-9910
New Hampshire: Andy Fast Andrew.Fast@unh.edu (603) 862-2402
Jasen Stock jstock@nhtoa.org (603) 674-8148
Vermont: Christine McGowan christine@vsjf.org (802) 828-5770
Charlie Hancock northwoodsforestry@gmail.com (802) 326-2093
New York: Carrie Tuttle ctuttle@danc.org (315) 778-8312
Daniel Berheide dberheide@westelcom.com (518) 461-3614
For a PDF of this Press Release please click HERE
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission
is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New
Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the
commission has awarded 331 grants, amounting to more than $90.6 million in direct investment and
$296 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State
Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant program and other special initiatives.
Northern Border Regional Commission & USDA Rural Development Announce $3 Million in Joint Funding for Projects in Northern New England & New York
2022-11-28
Northern Border Regional Commission & USDA Rural Development Announce $3 Million in Joint Funding for Projects in Northern New England & New York
Investments to benefit New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine initiatives
MONTPELIER, Vt., November 16, 2022 – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (RD) announced $3 million in funding for economic-development projects in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. Congress has provided funds to the NBRC since 2019 for this partnership, which advances the strategic objectives of both agencies. Awards will support community-driven initiatives in each state and bolster a regional effort aimed at increasing growth in the outdoor recreation economy. The NBRC identified investments in outdoor recreation as a method for contributing to the Biden-Harris Administration’s National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition and Health and these awards further that commitment.
“The success of this partnership is in the way it elevates local initiatives that are essential to growing the regional economy,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission. “NBRC communities have identified specific workforce training and childcare projects and our four member states have stated clearly that harnessing the potential of the outdoor recreation economy is a key theme throughout the entire region.”
2022 - U.S. Economic Development Administration Joint Awards Announced
2022-09-21
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces the funding of five projects under a Memorandum of Agreement signed between the NBRC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to amplify both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities. The NBRC has received a special appropriation since 2018 for these awards, which has resulted in working closely with the EDA to award funds to projects that meet the strategic objectives of both agencies.
The total of the awards made in 2022 is $3,000,000, and a brief summary of each of the awarded projects is provided in the full press release (linked below).
“Our nation’s aging infrastructure has increasingly brought a renewed focus on the importance of reliable access to water. Safe drinking water and resilient wastewater infrastructure is critical both for public health and as an essential building block for economic development,” said Chris Saunders Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC. “These public investments will support communities in northern New England and New York retain existing businesses and create opportunities for new businesses to thrive.”
“The Northern Border Region is a major driver of economic activity critical to our nation’s overall economic competitiveness,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “EDA is pleased to partner with the NBRC to support projects that will diversify and grow the regional economy and we wish these grantees much success.”
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. Depending on the availability of funds in 2023, the NBRC anticipates another round of joint NBRC-EDA project awards next year. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about future Funding Opportunities.
2022 NBRC State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Awards Announced
2022-08-24
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has approved $24.2 Million in new awards to 56 projects as of August 18, 2022. The awards are part of the annual State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant round. These projects are matched by an additional $120.19 Million in public and private investments, resulting in $144.39 Million in total investment across the four-state NBRC region, including portions of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and all of Vermont. These projects will unfold over the next three years, and all of this year’s awardees are listed on the NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov.
The 2022 SEID grant round was among the NBRC’s most competitive to date. The NBRC received 181 Letters of Interest, which collectively requested $120 Million, a 33% increase in requests over 2021. In 2022, 81% of these letters were from applicants new to the program, which is a result of combined efforts by the NBRC and the States of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont to expand outreach and awareness to communities throughout the region.
The SEID program is a Federal-State partnership, with each NBRC state scoring applications consistent with state and local economic development plans, and the NBRC administering the awards and supporting projects over time.
“This year’s State Economic and Infrastructure Development awards build upon the natural strengths of our region by investing a record $24.2 million dollars in community-centered projects across the Commission’s four states. With investments in new trails and outdoor recreation infrastructure, workforce development and entrepreneurship programs, and basic water and wastewater infrastructure, these resources will grow economic opportunities for residents of the region” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders. “The Commission is particularly proud that this year’s slate of projects reach some of the smallest and most rural areas in New York and New England.”
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. Depending on the availability of funds in 2023, the NBRC anticipates another round of SEID awards in 2023. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about current and future Funding Opportunities.
For the PDF version of this press release click here
***
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the commission has awarded 387 grants, amounting to more than $114 million in direct investment and $416 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant program and other special initiatives.
Biden-Harris Administration to Help Rural Communities Grow Outdoor Recreation Economy
2022-08-19
Contact: EPA Press Office, press@epa.gov
WASHINGTON (August 17, 2022) — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), and the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) to announce assistance for 25 small and rural communities from across the country identify strategies to grow their outdoor recreation economies and revitalize Main Streets through the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC) program.
"Outdoor recreation activities can bring new investment to local economies, encourage people to revitalize existing downtowns and conserve natural resources, and lead to improved quality of life for residents and visitors,” said Vicki Arroyo, EPA Associate Administrator for Policy. “This assistance will help rural areas explore ways that outdoor recreation can strengthen their communities, create jobs, and boost access to the outdoors for everyone.”
“The economic impact of outdoor recreation near our national forests and grasslands is vital to support health and prosperity in rural America,” said Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “Efforts to reinvigorate main streets through the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program is an important step to help communities realize all the benefits that adjacent national forests and grasslands make possible.”
“The travel and tourism industry in Appalachia is among the region's fastest-growing employment sectors, generating more than $4.5 billion in local tax revenue and employing more than 577,000 Appalachians,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “The Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC) program builds on our region’s economic development potential by investing in Appalachia’s local heritage and natural assets, which will lead to more vibrant downtowns and expanded growth for outdoor recreation industries. We congratulate the 12 Appalachian communities chosen to be part of the RERC program.”
“Communities in the Northern Border region are increasingly investing in outdoor recreation in ways that strengthen their local economies,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the NBRC. “The work made possible through this federal partnership will ultimately lead to investments that not only bring new visitors and tourists into rural New England and New York, but also improve the recreation opportunities and quality of life of local residents.”
“The Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program is exactly what rural America needs to harness the high demand for outdoor recreation and develop sustainable economies that benefit locals and visitors alike,” said Jessica Turner, President, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “The $689 billion outdoor recreation economy benefits greatly from continued government investment in programs like these that work on the ground and positively impact people, place and planet.”
RERC is a planning assistance program jointly administered by the EPA, the USDA Forest Service, NBRC, and ARC that helps rural communities leverage outdoor recreation to revitalize their Main Streets, leading to improved environmental protection and public health outcomes. Communities are encouraged to pursue activities that foster environmentally friendly community development and revitalization through the conservation and sustainable use of public or private forests or other natural resources.
The communities are planning to undertake a variety of revitalization projects which include:
- building new trail systems;
- improving access and walkability along Main Streets;
- increasing access to outdoor activities for all residents and visitors;
- strengthening outdoor recreation businesses;
- adapting to the climate impacts that affect coastal resources, wildfires, and winter recreation opportunities;
- cleaning up and repurposing vacant buildings; and
- creating new parks and recreation amenities.
A federal planning team will work with each community over the course of four to six months, with a two-day facilitated community workshop as the focal point. Participants will work together to develop strategies and an action plan to grow their local outdoor recreation economies. Some workshops are currently underway. Communities were chosen following a comprehensive interagency review process from a pool of more than 100 applicants.
Background
Over 160 million Americans over the age of six participated in outdoor recreation in 2020, according to the 2021 Outdoor Participation Trends Report, and sales figures across the industry broke records as Americans flocked to the outdoors in search of safe, family-friendly opportunities during the pandemic. These activities -- which include camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, RVing, boating, running, swimming, baseball, winter sports, and many others – can bring new investment and jobs to local economies, benefit health and wellness, raise awareness in conservation of forests and other natural resources, and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.
In 2020, outdoor recreation activities generated 4.3 million quality, high paying jobs across a wide variety of industries, accounting for 3% of all employment in the United States. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis calculated the economic output of outdoor recreation in 2020 to be $689 billion, surpassing industries such as mining, utilities, farming and ranching, and chemical products manufacturing.
The EPA Office of Community Revitalization supports locally led, community-driven efforts to expand economic opportunity, protect human health and the environment, and create and enhance the places that people love through technical assistance, publications, research, tools, and grants.
The USDA Forest Service develops and implements place-based recreation planning using collaborative processes with communities and outdoor recreation and tourism providers within regional destination areas. Forest Service recreation programs support over 205,000 jobs, the majority of which are in rural gateway communities near national forests. The agency partners with states, tribes, local communities, and landowners to promote shared stewardship of public and privately-owned forests and grasslands.
ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia to help the Region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation.
Created in 2008, the NBRC is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the commission has awarded 331 grants, amounting to more than $90.6 million in direct investment and $296 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State Economic & Infrastructure Development grant program and other special initiatives.
View the list of the selected communities and projects
Learn about EPA’s community revitalization efforts
Learn more about USDA Forest Service
Learn more about the Northern Border Regional Commission
Learn more about the Appalachian Regional Commission
Notice of Public Meeting
2022-08-03
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
August 18th, 9:00 AM-2:30 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for 2022 Rural Northern Border Regional Healthcare Support Program
2022-05-25
On May 25, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announced that health care providers and organizations across Northern New England and New York are now able to apply for grant funds from the agency’s partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The partnership will award $1.8 million in federal funds through the Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program.
This program will provide support to rural counties in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York in their efforts to increase access to health care, including behavioral health services, recruitment and retention of health care providers and assist rural hospitals and clinics in their efforts to take part in health care value efforts. The one award recipient funded through this program will provide technical assistance in eligible HRSA designated rural counties or rural census tracts within the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) service area.
“This partnership strives to ensure that our rural hospitals and health care practices are as financially strong as possible. Access to quality health care is an essential component of a vibrant rural economy and NBRC’s partnership with HHS will strengthen the health care network across the Northern Border Region,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for FY22 Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program can be viewed here: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html?keywords=hrsa-22-166
Applicants can begin the Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program application process on Grants.gov and apply by Friday, July 1, 2022 at 11:59 PM, ET.
If you have any questions about the program, please contact Maribel Nunez: MNunez@hrsa.gov or 301-443-0466.
For the full press release click here
Notice of Public Meeting
2022-05-09
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
May 13th, 10:00 AM-11 AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Upcoming Grant Round To Support Region’s Rural Health Network
2022-04-28
On April 28, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announced that health care providers and organizations across Northern New England and New York will soon be able to apply for grant funds from the agency’s partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The partnership will award nearly $2 million in federal funds through the Rural Northern Border Region Healthcare Support Program.
“Access to quality health care is vital for the well-being of rural communities across the Commission’s territory. In this partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services we are seeking to improve health care outcomes for our area residents by strengthening the region’s health care network,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Chris Saunders.
HRSA’s Federal Office of Rural Health Policy will present a virtual informational webinar on Thursday, May 5, 2022, from 11-12 PM EST.
For the full press release and link to the webinar, please click here.
Northern Border Regional Commission Welcomes Agency’s Fourth Federal Co-Chair
2022-04-14
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 14, 2022
Contact: Rich Grogan, NBRC Executive Director
rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Northern Border Regional Commission Welcomes Agency’s Fourth Federal Co-Chair
The Northern Border Regional Commission is excited to welcome the Agency’s fourth Federal Co-Chair, Chris Saunders. Chris began his role with the NBRC on April 11th, following confirmation by the U.S. Senate on March 24, 2022. Chris succeeds Harold B. Parker, who served from 2018 – 2022.
“The communities that comprise the Commission territory are where I was raised, educated, and have chosen to raise my family. To see our communities thrive and offer economic opportunity to all residents has been the focus of my personal and professional life. I am grateful for the trust President Biden has placed in me by nominating me to this post and look forward to my service in support of a vibrant future for the region,” said Saunders.
Chris joins the NBRC after nearly two decades of service as part of Senator Patrick Leahy’s staff in both Washington, D.C., and in Vermont. In those roles, he focused on a number of crucial issues to the NBRC region, including community and economic development, and transportation.
Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) said, “I am pleased that the Senate worked quickly to confirm Chris as the Federal Co-Chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission. No one has worked harder than Chris to expand the scope and impact of the Commission. He is deeply familiar with the unique challenges facing the most rural corners of the Northeast. There is no better advocate for the Commission, and the states it represents, than Chris, and I am eager to continue working with him as he assumes this new role.”
Chris will work collaboratively with the Governors of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont, to oversee a $35 Million core budget, along with NBRC partnership programs that will collectively deploy over $60 Million in funds across the region in 2022. He will also be charged with the deployment of $150 Million in funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation, which was signed into law in 2021.
“We are thrilled to have someone of Chris’ experience join as the fourth Federal Co-Chair,” said NBRC Executive Director Rich Grogan. “He will bring a new level of energy to the Commission and help to shepherd us through our next phase of growth as we continue to seek new ways to serve our region.”
Chris was raised in Middlebury, VT, and is a graduate of Bowdoin College in Maine. He lives with his family in Burlington, VT.
For a PDF version of this PR click here
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the commission has awarded 331 grants, amounting to more than $90.6 million in direct investment and $296 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant program and other special initiatives.
NBRC 2022 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Information Sessions
2022-03-16
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2022
Contact: Andrea Smith, NBRC Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces
2022 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Information Sessions
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has scheduled 4 information sessions in support of the 2022 State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant application opportunity, and we invite any parties interested in applying to this year’s program to attend one of the sessions. Each session will consist of an overview of the SEID program, and there will be plenty of time for questions.
Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), are currently able to access grant application details via NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, and attendees are encouraged to review program materials prior to attending. NBRC State Program Managers will be in attendance as schedules allow.
All information sessions will be held via Zoom and registration is required. Registration links are available in the electronic version of the press release in the Recent News section of NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov.
Potential applicants must express interest through Letters of Interest, which must be submitted by April 22nd at 5:00 p.m. Letters of Interest will be reviewed for eligibility, and will be used to determine which applicants will be invited to submit a full application, which will be due June 3rd. Awards are anticipated in August 2022.
For those considering applications in 2022, regardless of your ability to attend an information session, please contact NBRC Program Director Andrea Smith, and the NBRC Program Manager(s) in the State(s) where the proposed project will take place. Both will be happy to assist you as you develop your projects and applications:
*For a PDF version of this PR with Registration Links for each session Click Here
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Beno Lamontagne or Janel Lawton
207.624.7448 (603) 419-9713 (603) 545-1579
charlotte.mace@maine.gov benoit.l.lamontagne@livefree.nh.gov janel.m.lawton@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
518.473.3694 802.398.5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the commission has awarded 331 grants, amounting to more than $90.6 million in direct investment and $296 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant program and other special initiatives.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2022 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round
2022-03-10
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2022
Contact: Andrea Smith, NBRC Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2022 State Economic & Infrastructure Development grant application opportunity. Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), will be able to access grant application details (available via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov) beginning Monday, March 14th. Please note that as of the date of this release, the NBRC is operating under a continuing resolution, and as such, grant awards are subject to the enactment of full-year FY 2022 appropriations by Congress.
New for 2022 is the requirement that applicants express interest through a Letter of Interest, which must be submitted to loi@nbrc.gov by April 22nd at 5PM. Initial inquiries concerning eligibility, suitability, and integration with economic development priorities, should be directed to each NBRC State’s Program Manager (contacts listed below). Questions about the application itself should be directed to the NBRC’s Program Director, Andrea Smith, at asmith@nbrc.gov, or (603) 369-3001.
As always, applicants are encouraged to review the application materials closely this year for several programmatic changes.
“The communities of this region are working hard to build resilient local and regional economies during a time of continual change,” said NBRC Executive Director Rich Grogan. He added, “The NBRC looks forward to partnering with these communities to help them realize their vision for a vibrant economic future.”
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Beno Lamontagne Janel Lawton
207.624.7448 603.419.9713 603.545.1579
charlotte.mace@maine.gov benoit.l.lamontagne@livefree.nh.gov janel.m.lawton@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
518.473.3694 802.398.5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
For a PDF version of this PR please click HERE
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the commission has awarded 331 grants, amounting to more than $90.6 million in direct investment and $296 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant program and other special initiatives.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Latest Regional Forest Economy Partnership Awards
2022-02-03
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2022
Contact: Rich Grogan
rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(802) 461-8089
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) approved $1 Million in new awards to 2 projects on January 13, 2022, as part of the Regional Forest Economy Partnership (RFEP). The organizations receiving these awards are:
- University of Maine – $361,651 (ME): Launch of a knowledge center at the University of Maine to purchase equipment to support fiber thermoforming with wood fiber.
- Town of Lincoln – $638,349 (ME): Construction of the Lincoln Lakes Innovation Center, a workforce development center which aims to produce a skilled and versatile workforce for the forest industry.
The RFEP program was created to focus on innovative regional approaches to address the decline in forest-based economies. The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
The application process for the RFEP program began in summer, 2021, with a review of Letters of Interest by an external Advisory Board, leading to requests for full applications in fall, 2021. Applications were scored on a range of variables, including their regional scope, potential for transformative change, and ability to implement.
“The NBRC is excited to work with this year’s awardees in the State of Maine,” said NBRC Executive Director, Rich Grogan. He added: “These projects are emblematic of the innovative approaches we hope to continue to fund in this sector.”
The RFEP program will continue in 2022, and the NBRC anticipates making additional awards in New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. Please refer to the NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for additional announcements about the RFEP program, and other funding opportunities.
For a PDF version of this PR please click HERE
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its thirteen-year history, including these new awards, the commission has awarded 331 grants, amounting to more than $90.6 million in direct investment and $296 million in additional leveraged investments, across the four states through its primary State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant program and other special initiatives.
Notice of Public Meeting
2021-12-22
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone/Video (Zoom)
Date and Time
Janurary 13th, 9:00 AM-3 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission – U.S. Economic Development Administration Joint Awards Announced
2021-09-30
Northern Border Regional Commission – U.S. Economic Development Administration Joint Awards Announced
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces the funding of 6 projects under a Memorandum of Agreement signed between the NBRC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to amplify both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities. The NBRC has received a special appropriation since 2018 for these awards, which has resulted in working closely with the EDA to award funds to projects that meet the strategic objectives of both agencies.
To view the full press release please click HERE
USDA, Northern Border Regional Commission Announce $3 Million in Joint Funding for Projects in 4 States
2021-09-23
USDA, Northern Border Regional Commission Announce $3 Million in Joint Funding for Projects in 4 States
Investments to benefit New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine initiatives
MONTPELIER, Vt., Sept. 23, 2021 – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (RD) announced $3 million in funding for economic-development projects in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. The NBRC has received funding in 2019, 2020 and 2021 for these awards, reinforcing the strategic objectives of both agencies.
Click HERE for the full press release.
2021 Regional Forest Economy Partnership Information Sessions
2021-08-12
2021 Regional Forest Economy Partnership Information Sessions
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has scheduled 6 information sessions in support of the 2021 Regional Forest Economy Partnership (RFEP) grant application opportunity, and we invite any parties interested in applying to this year’s program to attend one of the sessions. Each session will consist of an overview of the RFEP program, and there will be plenty of time for questions.
For additional information and to see the full announcement please click HERE
2021 NBRC Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Awards Announced
2021-08-09
2021 NBRC Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Awards Announced
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has approved $18.6 Million in new awards to 44 projects as of
August 4, 2021. The awards are part of the annual State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant round.
These projects are matched by an additional $47 Million in public and private investments, resulting in $65.6 Million
in total investment across the four-state NBRC region, including portions of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and
Vermont. These projects will unfold over the next three years, and all of this year’s awardees are listed on the
NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov.
For the full press release click HERE
For individual state summaries please click HERE
Notice of Public Meeting
2021-07-15
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
August 4th, 9:00 AM-2:30 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2021 Regional Forest Economy Partnership Grant Round
2021-07-12
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2021 Regional Forest Economy Partnership (RFEP) grant application opportunity. Total funding available for the program is $4 Million, with a maximum award of $1 Million, and a minimum award of $250,000.
Notice of Public Meeting
2021-04-21
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a May meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
May 4th, 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Reminder: Northern Border Regional Commission 2021 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round application portal opens April 15!
2021-04-14
April 15, 2021
Contact: Andrea Smith, NBRC Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Reminder: Northern Border Regional Commission 2021 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round application portal opens April 15!
The Northern Border Regional Commission’s (NBRC) State Economic & Infrastructure Development (SEID) grant application portal is opening today, April 15th, and will remain open until 5pm, May 14th, 2021, as previously announced. A link to the portal is available via the NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov.
Potential eligible applicants are invited to submit a full application whether or not they submitted a Letter of Interest. Initial inquiries concerning eligibility, suitability, and integration with economic development priorities, should be directed to each NBRC State’s Program Manager (contacts listed below). Questions about the application itself should be directed to the NBRC’s Program Director, Andrea Smith, at asmith@nbrc.gov, or (603) 369-3001.
Applicants are encouraged to review the application materials closely this year for several programmatic changes, including the opportunity for a waiver of match requirements for applicants unable to provide match due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Beno Lamontagne
207.624.7448 603.419.9713
charlotte.mace@maine.gov benoit.l.lamontagne@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
518.473.3694 802.398.5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its twelve-year history, the Commission has awarded 287 grants amounting to more than $72 Million across the four states through its primary Economic & Infrastructure Development (EID) grant program and other special initiatives.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2021 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round
2021-03-15
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Notice of Public Meeting
2021-01-08
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a Semi-Annual meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
January 12th, 2020 8:30 AM-12:30 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Latest Regional Forest Economy Partnership Awards
2021-01-07
Notice of Public Meeting
2020-12-09
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a December meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
December, 18th 2020 2:00 PM-3:00 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission – U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Joint Awards Announced
2020-11-10
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD), announces the funding of 5 projects, in addition to continuation of support for the NBRC Outdoor Economy Council, which serves all four NBRC States. Collectively, these awards amplify both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities. The NBRC has received funding in 2019 and 2020 for these awards, which has resulted in working closely with USDA RD to award funds to projects that meet the strategic objectives of both agencies.
The total of the awards made in 2020 is $3,000,000, with a portion withheld for administration of the funds. A brief summary of each of the awarded projects is below:
- University of Maine (Oxford County, ME) - $286,800: The project delivers workforce training for the growing outdoor recreation and tourism sectors in western Maine. It provides technical and entrepreneurship skills, in addition to professional development opportunities.
- Appalachian Mountain Club (Coös County, NH) - $290,056: This project will deliver 20 trail building, stewardship and recreation management skills trainings annually at AMC’s Camp Dodge Trails Center to approximately 200 individuals, equipping them to meet the workforce needs of the region’s outdoor recreation economy.
- Northern Forest Center (Carroll, Coös, Grafton, Sullivan Counties, NH & Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham, Windsor Counties, VT) - $177,354: The project will provide technical and market development assistance to support wood products businesses in the NBRC region through the COVID pandemic & recovery. It will engage medium to large manufacturers in support of improved profitability to support growth in the wood heat market.
- Social & Environmental Entrepreneurs (Livingston County, NY) - $168,204: The project will assist Letchworth Gateway Villages in establishing a Trail Town destination program in Livingston County to position the Genesee Valley as a sustainable outdoor recreation and heritage tourism destination. The project will attract new businesses, create jobs, grow outdoor tourism, and support main street revitalization.
- State University of New York (SUNY) – Geneseo (Livingston County, VT) - $152,629: The project will create a Rural Innovation Hub at SUNY Geneseo. The Hub will lead rural revitalization and economic development efforts through the development of Design Thinking and Problem-based Learning methodologies. These will lead to professional certificates that meet the needs of the rural workforce, thereby creating new jobs.
- Outdoor Economy Council (ME, NH, NY, VT) - $1,600,699: The NBRC Outdoor Economy Council spans the collective efforts of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont, to support growth in each State’s outdoor recreation economy. Funding from the NBRC supports dedicated personnel and marketing efforts in this crucial economic sector.
“It is exciting to see the partnership between the NBRC and USDA RD continue to grow,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Harold B. Parker. He added: “The alignment between technical assistance for businesses, workforce training efforts, and the strategic importance of the outdoor recreation economy – especially during this time of continued economic uncertainty – exemplifies this collaboration and highlights its strategic importance across the region.”
“When federal agencies work cooperatively with each other and with rural communities, good things happen,” said State Director of Rural Development in Vermont and New Hampshire, Anthony Linardos. “These NBRC investments target several priority areas of the administration, improving the quality of life in rural America by supporting the workforce, harnessing the power of technological innovation and driving economic development.”
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Depending on the availability of funds in 2021, the NBRC anticipates another round of joint NBRC-USDA project awards next year. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about future Funding Opportunities.
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About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its twelve-year history, the Commission has awarded 287 grants amounting to more than $72 Million across the four states through its primary Economic & Infrastructure Development (EID) grant program and other special initiatives.
About the USDA RD (https://www.rd.usda.gov/)
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports housing, infrastructure improvements, business development, high-speed internet access, and community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
Notice of Public Meeting
2020-10-19
Notice of Public Meeting
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding an October meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
October 28th @ 9AM, 2020
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission – U.S. Economic Development Administration Joint Awards Announced
2020-10-14
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 14, 2020
Contact: Rich Grogan rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(802) 461-8089
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces the funding of 5 projects under a Memorandum of Agreement signed between the NBRC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to amplify both agencies’ economic development impact in Northern Border communities. The NBRC has received a special appropriation since 2018 for these awards, which has resulted in working closely with the EDA to award funds to projects that meet the strategic objectives of both agencies.
The total of the awards made in 2020 is $2,838,810.00, and a brief summary of each of the awarded projects is below:
“EDA is pleased to work with the NBRC to support local strategies designed to boost the competitiveness of the Northern Border region,” said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. “We wish these communities the best as they work to diversify and grow the regional economy.”
The funds for this program, and all NBRC programs, are available thanks to the support of the Congressional Delegations of all four NBRC states: Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.
Depending on the availability of funds in 2021, the NBRC anticipates another round of joint NBRC-EDA project awards next year. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about future Funding Opportunities.
***
About the Northern Border Regional Commission (www.nbrc.gov)
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its twelve-year history, the Commission has awarded 287 grants amounting to more than $72 Million across the four states through its primary Economic & Infrastructure Development (EID) grant program and other special initiatives.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.
2020 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grants Announced
2020-08-21
On August 20th, the NBRC announced the selection of 39 new SEID projects across the NBRC region. Please follow the links below to review details about each project awarded in 2020.
Notice of Public Meeting
2020-07-27
Notice of Public Meeting
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding an August meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
August 14th, 2020 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Notice of Public Meeting
2020-07-21
Notice of Public Meeting
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a July meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
July 22nd, 2020 9:00 AM-10:00 AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2020 Regional Forest Economy Partnership Grant Round
2020-07-01
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2020
Contact: Andrea Smith
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2020 Regional Forest Economy Partnership Grant Round
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2020 Regional Forest Economy Partnership (RFEP) grant application opportunity. Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), will be able to access grant application details (available via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov) beginning July 10th. Total funding available for the program is $4 Million, with a maximum award of $1 Million.
Potential applicants are able to express interest through Letters of Interest, which must be submitted by August 28th at 5PM. Letters of Interest will be evaluated by a 9 member Advisory Board, consisting of representatives from each of the four NBRC states. The Advisory Board will determine which applicants will be invited to submit a full application, which will be due October 30th, with anticipation of awards in December.
The driving force behind the program is regional cooperation among NBRC states. As such, multi-state applications will be prioritized in the scoring process. The purpose of the program is to assist rural communities in transitioning from a historic dependence on the forest-based economy to new opportunities for economic diversity and innovation. These opportunities tend to cluster around three strategies, which may or may not be considered mutually exclusive for purposes of a proposal:
1. New technology and innovations that seek to find new uses for forest products, and evolve traditional forest economy business models into those that can create sustainable future commercial markets & opportunities.
2. Workforce re-training and development for the purpose of building the skills needed for forest products businesses.
3. New industries, or the expansion of current industries (e.g., outdoor recreation), that can provide employment and economic growth opportunities in formerly forest industry-dependent communities.
COVID-19 Impacts
The RFEP opportunity in 2020 also focuses on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic (and resulting economic uncertainty) on communities in the NBRC region. As such, a fourth strategy considered in 2020 seeks proposals focused on collaborative, multi-state projects designed to address innovative solutions to structural weaknesses highlighted by the pandemic, and community efforts to recover economically.
“Regional collaboration is critical to ongoing economic development across the NBRC region,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chairman Harold B. Parker. He added, “We look forward to building on the success of last year’s Regional Forest Economy Partnership awards, and to investing in early and innovative economic recovery efforts addressing the economic uncertainty created by the pandemic.”
For those considering applications in 2020, please contact NBRC staff, and the NBRC Program Managers in the States where the proposed project will take place. Both will be happy to assist you as you develop your projects and applications:
Maine: New Hampshire:
Charlotte Mace Mollie Kaylor
207.624.7448 603.271.6305
charlotte.mace@maine.gov mollie.kaylor@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Vermont:
Kyle Wilber Kristie Farnham
518.473.3694 802.398.5268
kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov kristie.farnham@vermont.gov
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Created in the 2008 Farm Bill, NBRC is a federal-state partnership with a mission to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private-sector job creation in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and New York. Since its inception, the Commission has awarded more than $55 million in grants, which has leveraged more than $142 million to support 248 grants across the four states.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces New Program Specialist
2020-05-20
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is excited to announce the hiring of Molly Taflas as a Program Specialist, focused on grant reimbursements. Molly has a track record of success and leadership in a range of organizations in the NBRC region, always with an eye towards community-building. She joins the Commission after serving for four years in her current role leading the Hannah Grimes Marketplace in Keene, NH, a business dedicated to supporting local small businesses, and surrounding communities. The NBRC is working to build its grant administration capacity in a distributed, virtual environment, and Molly will remain in Rindge, NH, working remotely.
“We are thrilled that Molly has agreed to join our team at the NBRC,” said Executive Director Rich Grogan. He added, “She has a unique combination of skills that will allow us to better serve our communities across the NBRC region.”
In her new role, Molly will work collaboratively with NBRC staff to speed the efficiency of reimbursement processing. She will be responsible for building critical relationships with grantees across the NBRC region, and for participating in continuous improvement efforts among NBRC’s current programs.
"I am honored to be joining the NBRC team as a Program Specialist,” Taflas said. She added, “I look forward to establishing lasting relationships with our partners and continuing to improve economic development within the communities we serve."
***
Created in the 2008 Farm Bill, NBRC is a federal-state partnership with a mission to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private-sector job creation in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and New York. Since its inception, the Commission has awarded more than $55 million in grants, which has leveraged more than $142 million to support 248 grants across the four states.
Notice of Public Meeting
2020-05-19
Notice of Public Meeting
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a May meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
Wednesday, May 27, 2020 9:00 AM-10:00 AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces New Program Director
2020-05-12
Notice of Public Meeting
2020-04-14
Notice of Public Meeting
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a April meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
April 22, 2020 at 9 AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov
NBRC COVID-19 Announcement
2020-04-06
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Grant Extension Deadline & Administrative Measures in response to COVID-19
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 3, 2020
Contact: Rich Grogan rgrogan@nbrc.gov (802) 461-8089
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is extending the deadline for applications to its Economic & Infrastructure Development (EID) grant round to 5pm (EST) on June 1, 2020, from 5pm (EST) May 15, 2020. Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & tribal governments), are currently able to access grant application details via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov. Please note that the online application portal (also available via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov) will open on April 6.
NBRC has also designed a webpage, nbrc.gov/coronavirus, where further updates will be shared, and where NBRC will list other Federal resources that impact communities in the NBRC region.
“We have heard from several of our potential applicants that the evolving national emergency, stay-at-home orders, and economic uncertainty have combined to delay their ability to complete applications by the original deadline,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Harold B. Parker. “We have also heard that many applicants still intend to start their projects on time this fall, so we are extending the deadline as far as possible to balance these concerns as well.”
Current NBRC grantees have also been impacted, and NBRC staff and State Program Managers are working remotely to ensure continuity during this difficult time. If you are a current NBRC grantee or NBRC EID applicant, and your project is being impacted by COVID-19, please contact NBRC staff and your State’s Program Manager (contact information below) for assistance.
NBRC: admin@nbrc.gov, 603.269.3001; Maine: andrea.smith@maine.gov, 207.624.9813; New Hampshire: mollie.kaylor@livefree.nh.gov, 603.271.6305; New York: kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov, 518.473.3694; Vermont: kristie.farnham@vermont.gov, 802.398.5268
***
Created in the 2008 Farm Bill, NBRC is a federal-state partnership with a mission to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private-sector job creation in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and New York. Since its inception, the Commission has awarded more than $55 million in grants, which has leveraged more than $142 million to support 248 grants across the four states.
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2020 Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round
2020-02-26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2020
Contact: Rich Grogan rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(802) 461-8089
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2020 Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2020 Economic & Infrastructure Development grant application opportunity. Eligible organizations, which include nonprofit and governmental entities (state, local & Indian tribes), will be able to access grant application details (available via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov), beginning March 2. While not required, Letters of Interest are requested by March 31, and the online application portal (also available via NBRC’s website, nbrc.gov) will be open by April 6. Applications are due by 5pm on Friday, May 15.
Thanks to the support of the congressional delegation across the NBRC region, the Commission’s appropriation increased significantly in 2020, and each State in the region (Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont) will be able to support additional projects compared with 2019.
“I am happy that each state in the NBRC region will have access to additional funds in 2020,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Harold B. Parker. “This is an exciting time of year for us because we get a first look at applications that collectively represent the cutting edge of economic development in rural communities across the NBRC region. We look forward to supporting these projects in 2020.”
For those considering applications in 2020, please contact the following Program Managers in each NBRC state. The Program Managers will be happy to assist you as you develop your projects and applications:
Maine: Andrea Smith New Hampshire: Mollie Kaylor
207.624.9813 603.271.6305
andrea.smith@maine.gov mollie.kaylor@livefree.nh.gov
New York: Kyle Wilber Vermont: Kristie Farnham
518.473.3694 802.398.5268
***
Created in the 2008 Farm Bill, NBRC is a federal-state partnership with a mission to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private-sector job creation in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and New York. Since its inception, the Commission has awarded more than $55 million in grants, which has leveraged more than $142 million to support 248 grants across the four states.
Commission Meeting
2020-02-18
Notice of Public Meeting
The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a February meeting and is open to the public.
Location
Via Telephone
Date and Time
February 26th, 2020 at 9 AM
Purpose
Discussion of Commission business
Contact For More Information
Phone: (603) 369-3001
Email: Admin@nbrc.gov