News

NBRC J-1 Visa Program Will Expand to Include Specialist Positions for Northern Border States

2024-03-18

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.

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.

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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.

New Grant Management System Set to Launch March 11, Rescheduled by One Week for Smoother Applicant Experience

2024-02-29

The rescheduled system deployment date will push back NBRC Program pre-application deadlines by one week to March 22, 2024.

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.

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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

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.

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.

 

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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

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Northern Border Regional Commission Announces Availability of $25m in New 2024 Timber for Transit Program

2024-02-05

Federal resources for the new Timber for Transit Program will be competitively awarded through two funding rounds, with a minimum of $25m available across both rounds in 2024.

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.

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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.

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Northern Border Regional Commission Announces $4m in Strategic Forest Economy Investments

2024-01-31

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).

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.

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Maine Governor Janet Mills Elected as Third State Co-Chair for the Northern Border Regional Commission

2024-01-26

As State Co-Chair, Governor Mills will work alongside the NBRC Federal Co-Chair 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.

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.

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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. 
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         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.

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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.

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NBRC Announces Initiative to Bring Physicians To Rural Areas of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York

2023-12-04

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.

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. 

Click to Download a PDF Version of This Press Release

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.

For the rest of the PR please click here

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.”

For the rest of the PR please click here

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.

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

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 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 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Workforce [re] training and development projects for the purpose of building the skills and recruiting and retaining the workforce needed for forest businesses.
  3. 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.
  4. Business planning and technical assistance projects that enhance the viability and sustainability of new and existing forest businesses.
  5. 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

***

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.”

Click HERE for a full version of the press release

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.

Click here for a PDF of the full press release

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 (RERCprogram.

"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.

See full press release here

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.

8 finalists named in new Maine initiative that aims to tackle state’s toughest challenges

2021-03-15

Field narrowed in Working Communities Challenge as teams chosen to receive $25K each to plan. 

 

 

 

Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2021 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round

2021-03-15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2021
Contact: Andrea Smith, NBRC Program Director
asmith@nbrc.gov
(603) 369-3001
 
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces 2021 State Economic & Infrastructure Development Grant Round 
 
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is pleased to announce the 2021 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 today, March 8th.
 
Potential applicants are able to express interest through Letters of Interest, which are not required, but are strongly encouraged. Letters must be submitted to loi@nbrc.gov by March 26th 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.
 
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 communities of this region are continually innovating and working hard to enhance the dynamism of our region’s economy” said NBRC Executive Director Rich Grogan. He added, “And this year, we have additional tools available to assist communities and organizations who have seen their local economies impacted by the pandemic. We look forward to working with our State partners to help our region’s communities 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:  
Charlotte Mace
207.624.7448
 
New York: 
Kyle Wilber
518.473.3694
 
New Hampshire:
Beno Lamontagne
603.419.9713
 
Vermont:
Kristie Farnham
802.398.5268
 
***
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.

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

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) approved nearly $5 Million in new awards to 5 projects on December 18, 2020, as part of the Regional Forest Economy Partnership (RFEP).
 

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.  
*** 
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: 

Town of Searsport (Waldo County, ME) - $911,190: This project will upgrade a wastewater treatment facility to improve primary treatment and provide new secondary and tertiary treatment. These improvements will increase the quality of water discharged into nearby Penobscot Bay, ultimately decreasing the risk of negative impacts to the shell fishing and recreation industries that rely on the Bay.
Sanbornville Precinct (Carroll County, NH) - $1,000,000: This project will replace 2.44 miles of watermain with 8” main to reduce re-occurring breaks. Additionally, the funds will support improvements to the pump station. The impact will be to reduce the number of temporary business closures due to a lack of water.
Village of Heuvelton (St. Lawrence County, NY) - $376,190: This project will decommission Heuvelton’s existing Wastewater Treatment Plant, and construct 8.6 miles of sewer main to Ogdensburg’s plant. Reducing treatment cost will allow for business and job retention, while creating an economic development corridor to catalyze commercial development.
Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (Addison, Rutland & Windsor Counties, VT) - $526,375: This project supports construction of key sections (10 mi) of the Velomont Trail in the Towns of Chittenden, Rochester, and Hancock, as well as a new year-round ADA accessible backcountry hut in Chittenden. The Velomont Trail and Hut Network will be a statewide, multi-use, non-motorized trail for mountain biking, hiking, and skiing.
Town of Highgate (Franklin County, VT) - $25,055: This project will support the creation of a 6,300’ extension of water and sewer infrastructure along US Route 78, to Airport Road, and continuing to the Franklin County Airport area within Highgate’s Commercial/Industrial Zoning District. The project will support new business development.
 
“It is exciting to see the partnership between NBRC and EDA continue to grow – through this MOA and in other areas of our work,” said NBRC Federal Co-Chair Harold B. Parker. He added: “The funds that support this partnership allow the NBRC to make critical investments in the region’s Distressed and Transitional Counties, and we look forward to continuing future collaboration.”  

“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. 

New York

Vermont

New Hampshire

Maine

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 

 

***
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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 12, 2020
Contact: Rich Grogan
rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(802) 461-8089
 
Northern Border Regional Commission Announces New Program Director
 
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is excited to announce the hiring of Andrea Smith as its Program Director. Andrea has a long and distinguished record of public service in the State of Maine, most recently serving as the NBRC’s Maine State Program Manager, and Director of Tax Incentive Programs at Maine’s Department of Economy & Community Development. The NBRC is working to build its grant administration capacity in a distributed, virtual environment, and Andrea will remain a Maine resident, working remotely.
 
“We are thrilled that Andrea is bringing her talents and public service spirit to the NBRC,” said Executive Director Rich Grogan. He added, “After a comprehensive regional search, it was clear that she had the best set of skills and enthusiasm to hit the ground running. And, we’re certainly excited to welcome a Mainer to the team!”
 
In her new role, Andrea will work collaboratively with the Executive Director to develop and executive a vision for the shape and direction of NBRC’s grant programs. She will be responsible for leading continuous improvement efforts among NBRC’s current programs, and for interpreting, shaping, and driving new program development.
 
“I am elated to have been selected as NBRC’s Program Director and look forward to this exciting and challenging opportunity,” Smith said. She added, “It has been my honor and privilege to serve the State of Maine since 2003, focused on economic and community development, and I look forward to applying this experience and my ambition to make a difference in the world to all four states served by the NBRC.”
 
***
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

2020-04-14

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

kyle.wilber@dos.ny.gov                                                               kristie.farnham@vermont.gov

 

***

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

Commission Meeting

2020-01-14

Notice of Public Meeting

The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a January meeting

Location

Woodstock Inn and Resort

14 The Green,
Woodstock, Vermont 05091

Date and Time

 January 27th 2019 12:00 PM - January 28th 2019 1:00 PM

Purpose

Discussion of Commission business

Contact For More Information

Phone: (603) 369-3001

Email: Admin@nbrc.gov

Commission Meeting

2019-12-02

Notice of Public Meeting

The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding a December meeting and is open to the public.

Location

Via Telephone

Date and Time

December 11th, 2019 at 1 PM

Purpose

Discussion of Commission business

Contact For More Information

Phone: (603) 369-3001

Email: Admin@nbrc.gov

Notice of Public Meeting

2019-10-03

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 9, 11:00AM

Purpose

Discussion of Commission business

Contact For More Information

Phone: (603) 369-3001

Email: Admin@nbrc.gov

Northern Border Regional Commission – Economic Development Administration Joint Awards Announced

2019-09-25

 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2019
Contact: Rich Grogan rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(802) 461-8089
 
 
Northern Border Regional Commission – Economic Development Administration Joint Awards Announced
 
Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announces the funding of 6 projects under an MOU signed between the NBRC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to amplify both agencies’ economic development impact in northern border communities.
 
The total of the awards is $2,675,130.00, and a brief summary of each of the awardees is below:
 
St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency (NY) - $535,000: St. Lawrence IDA is partnering with local organizations to build out a previously vacant industrial building in Oswegatchie, NY. The site will house a fully integrated log handling, sawing, and finishing facility. The project is estimated to result in the retention of 100 jobs, and the creation of 20 additional jobs.
Wayne County Water & Sewer (NY) - $500,000: This project will assist in the build-out of a new waterline, pump improvements, and a 2.0MM gallon water storage tank, which will impact businesses within a 6-town radius. The upgrades will result in job creation by allowing for business development in a range within the agricultural sector.
Town of Bristol (VT) - $500,000: The award will allow for the construction of infrastructure (to include roadway, communication, and storm drainage) to allow for additional business expansion in a commercial park near Bristol Village.
Mars Hill Utility District (ME) - $500,000: This project, which builds on past investments by the District, will construct new wells and structures to house a new groundwater supply for area residents and businesses. The more reliable source of water will allow for business expansion and population retention.
Northeast Kingdom Development Corporation (VT) - $390,130: This project will provide funding to build-out electrical infrastructure and power distribution at the former Gillman Paper Mill site in Gillman, VT. The infrastructure will allow commercial entities to develop on the site, creating jobs regionally in Vermont and New Hampshire.
Town of Littleton (NH) - $250,000: The award will allow for the acquisition and development of a 5-acre site in downtown Littleton, including better public access to this section of Littleton’s downtown. The project will benefit numerous local businesses, including a local farmers market, and will support the development of a new outdoor recreation area to draw visitors to Littleton year-round.
 
“These projects are emblematic of the achievements possible when multiple public agencies work together to address economic development challenges along our northern border,” said Federal Co- Chair Harold B. Parker. He added: “Combining the resources and expertise of multiple agencies enhances the viability of each of these projects.”
 
“EDA is pleased to partner with the Northern Border Regional Commission to support local strategies designed to encourage private investment and create jobs,” said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Dr. John Fleming. “By working together, we are best able to help these communities 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 2020, 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 throughout the northern counties of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its eleven-year history, the commission has awarded 248 grants amounting to more than $56 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.

Changes Coming to the Regional Forest Economy Partnership Program

2019-08-19

On August 14, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) announced $7.2 Million in new awards to 9 projects, as part of the Regional Forest Economy Partnership (RFEP). 2019 was the first year of the RFEP program, which was created to focus on innovative initiatives to engage a regional approach in addressing the decline in forest-based economies. We are thrilled to have deployed all of our available funds for the RFEP program in 2019 in the first and second rounds, which means that we will not be entertaining Letters of Intent for the potential third round that was previously announced through this program’s Notice of Funding Opportunity. 
NBRC has heard, and is responding to, feedback regarding this new program. RFEP is supported by an Advisory Board, which will work closely with NBRC staff and Commissioners in the coming months to clarify strategic alignment between Commission objectives and a new Notice of Funding Opportunity in 2020, contingent on available funds. Please stay tuned to our website for an announcement about the second year of RFEP, and thank you for your interest in the program! 

 

Regional Forest Economy Partnership Awards Announced

2019-08-16

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
August 14, 2019
Contact:  Rich Grogan
rgrogan@nbrc.gov
(802) 461-8089
 
Regional Forest Economy Partnership Awards Announced 
 
The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) has approved $7.2 Million in new awards to 9 projects as of August 14, 2019. The organizations receiving these awards are: 
Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation - $1,000,000:  To design and permit a biomass combined heat and power energy plant at Long Falls Paperboard.
East Millinocket Industrials - $450,000: To redevelop the East Millinocket paper mill site into a multi-industrial complex. 
Maine Foundation - $646,396: A partnership model building on stakeholder-driven work to focus on the development of community revitalization projects in communities most impacted by mill closures. 
Northern Forest Center - $908,277:  To launch the Northern Forest Rural Destination Development Initiative in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and New York to attract visitors and improve the quality of life for residents. 
Preservation Trust of Vermont (through the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance) - $1,000,000: To establish the Northern Heritage Economy Program in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and New York to help communities undertake community-driven preservation projects with strong economic revitalization potential.
The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board - $624,060: To advance the agricultural economy by launching the Northeast Agricultural Business Assistance Network throughout the four-states in the NBRC region. 
Vermont Technical College - $1,000,000: To create educational pathways to train and educate a skilled workforce in the forestry field for better woodland management and stewardship. 
Workforce Development Institute (WDI) - $571,267:  To focus on workforce development and training for jobs in the forest products industry.  
University of Maine - $1,000,000: To build a demonstration facility cellulose nanofiber (CNF) plant to speed the commercialization of a new forest product. 
 
The awards were made within the Regional Forest Economy Partnership, a new NBRC-led initiative, which was driven by a desire to focus on innovative initiatives to engage a regional approach in addressing 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. 
During the first year of the Regional Forest Economy Partnerships initiative, NBRC received a wide range of applications from new and established organizations, which were reviewed by an external Advisory Board, consisting of equal representation from all four states in the region, and Commission members. 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 to move an impressive slate of innovative projects forward,” said Executive Director Rich Grogan. He added: “There is not one simple solution to improving our forest-based economies in the region, but we feel that this collection of projects endorses the view that a diversity of well-researched approaches can collaboratively engage our most critical economic development issues.” 
 
Depending on the availability of funds in 2020, the NBRC anticipates another round of Regional Forest Economy Partnership awards next year. Please refer to NBRC’s website, www.nbrc.gov, for announcements about future Funding Opportunities. All funds for the 2019 round have been expended as of the awards referenced above. 
 
***
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 throughout the northern counties of Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its eleven-year history, the commission has awarded 248 grants amounting to more than $56 million across the four states through its primary Economic & Infrastructure Development (EID) grant program and other special initiatives. 

Notice of Public Meeting

2019-08-01

Notice of Public Meeting

The Northern Border Regional Commission will be holding its semi-annual meeting and is open to the public.

Location

Trapp Family Lodge

700 Trapp Hill Road

Stowe, Vermont 05672

Mozart Room

Date and Time

August 12th, 2019 12:30 PM-5:15 PM

August 13th, 2019 8:30 AM-12:00 PM

Purpose

Discussion of NBRC grants, funding, and other Commission business

Contact For More Information

Phone: (603) 369-3001

Email: Admin@nbrc.gov

 

Northern Tier Dairy Summit 2019

2019-05-15

Northern Tier Dairy Summit 2019

Grogan To Become First Northern Border Regional Commission Executive Director

2019-05-14

Northern Border Regional Commission Federal Cochair Harold B. Parker announced today that Rich Grogan of Vermont will become the first Executive Director of the Northern Border Regional Commission. Grogan is currently the Executive Director of Community Capital of Vermont.

“The Northern Border Regional Commission has grown tenfold since its inception more than a decade ago, maturing into an organization that communities rely on to implement infrastructure and economic development projects,” said Parker. “Rich understands the needs of the region, has a deep experience in organizational management, and will be a great advocate for the communities, businesses and people the Commission serves.”

Grogan will oversee the administration of more than $20 million a year in federal funds invested in northern border communities from Niagara Falls to the Gulf of Maine. The Commission, which consists of the presidentially-appointed Federal Cochair and the four governors of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York, will charge Grogan with developing a long-term strategic vision for revitalization in partnership with community and economic development organizations across the region.  

“The communities of the Northern Border Regional Commission are poised for positive transition,” Grogan said.  “Places like Millinocket, Littleton, Burke, and Saranac are investing in themselves, changing the narrative about rural places, and capitalizing on the outdoor recreation economy. Every community has its own distinct assets, and this unique federal-state partnership helps each community capitalize on these, and lift the entire region.”

Grogan is the Executive Director of Community Capital of Vermont, a statewide organization whose mission is to help small businesses and lower income entrepreneurs prosper by providing flexible financing and business advisory services. Grogan was a leader at the New Hampshire Small Business Development Center for six years, where he served as state director from 2015 to 2018 before moving to Community Capital. Grogan received his Doctorate from Michigan State University, a Masters in Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a degree in business from Wake Forest University. He lives in Reading, Vermont with his wife and three horses.

Created in the 2008 Farm Bill, NBRC is a federal-state partnership to reduce economic distress and encourage private-sector job creation throughout the northern counties of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York. Since its inception, the Commission has awarded tens of millions of dollars, leveraging more than $100 million of investment in the region and implementing more than 150 projects across the four states. 

- May 14th, 2019

 

Assistance to Support Recreation Economy

2019-04-12

News Releases

04/11/2019
Contact Information: 
EPA Press Office (press@epa.gov)

WASHINGTON (April 11, 2019) — Today, in support of the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service and the Northern Border Regional Commission  in announcing assistance to help communities revitalize their economy through outdoor recreation.

“Outdoor recreation not only plays an important role in the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans, but it also generates billions in economic activity and supports millions of jobs,” said EPA Administrator Wheeler. “We look forward to working with communities and our federal partners on strategies that can grow the local recreation economy and revitalize main street while protecting our vital natural resources.”

“By partnering alongside EPA and the Northern Border Commission, the Forest Service is proud to help communities deliver recreation experiences that better meet the needs of visitors and support local economies,” said Vicki Christiansen, USDA Forest Service Chief. “We are committed to sustaining the nation’s forests and grasslands through public-private partnerships that engage people directly in the shared stewardship of their natural resources.”

“We are excited to launch this collaborative effort to provide opportunities to establish outdoor recreation as a prominent economic sector of rural economies,” said Harold B. Parker, Federal Co-Chair of NBRC.

 According to the Outdoor Industry Association’s 2017 report on The National Outdoor Recreation Economy, outdoor activities – including hiking, biking, boating, fishing, hunting, birdwatching, off-road vehicle riding, skiing, snowmobiling, and viewing historic places – generated $887 billion in annual spending and created more than seven million jobs. These activities can bring new investment to local economies, heighten interest in conservation of forests and other natural resources, and improve quality of life for residents and visitors.

Through this latest federal assistance, a planning team will help communities bring together local residents and other stakeholders to decide on strategies and an action plan to grow the local outdoor recreation economy. The planning assistance process will take place over a period of four to six months, with a focal point being a two-day facilitated community workshop. Participants will work together to identify a vision, goals, and specific actions to realize the locally set goals.

Partner communities are encouraged to pursue activities that foster environmentally friendly community development and main street revitalization through the conservation and sustainable use of public or private forests or other natural resources. Examples include:

  • building or expanding trail networks to expand use and attract visitors and new businesses
  • ​developing in-town amenities, such as broadband service, quality housing, or local shops, restaurants, or breweries, to serve residents and help attract new visitors and residents with an interest in nearby outdoor assets;
  • marketing main street as a gateway to nearby natural lands and recreational opportunities; and
  • developing a community consensus on the management of outdoor assets.

EPA and its federal partners expect to announce in summer 2019 the selection of eight communities for planning assistance.  The deadline for application is May 31, 2019. Applications may be submitted on behalf of any U.S. community. Special consideration will be given to communities that are:

  • small towns;
  • economically disadvantaged, such as those in Opportunity Zones; and/or
  • in the Northern Border Region.

EPA’s Smart Sectors program also provides support to grow the outdoor recreation economy. In 2018, EPA offices in the New England and Mountains and Plains regions established Smart Sectors programs that recognize the wealth of natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities that can be leveraged to create jobs, spur new businesses, and support economic revitalization.

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.

The Northern Border Regional Commission provides federal funds for critical economic and community development projects throughout the northeast.  These investments lead to new jobs being created and leverages substantial private sector investments. 

For more information: https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/recreation-economy-rural-communities

For more information about EPA Community Revitalization: https://www.epa.gov/community-revitalization

For more information about USDA Forest Service: https://www.fs.fed.us/ 

For more information about the Northern Border Regional Commission: http://www.nbrc.gov/

For more information about EPA Region 1 Smart Sectors Recreational Economy Partnership: https://www.epa.gov/smartsectors/newengland

For more information about EPA Region 8 Smart Sectors Recreational Economy Partnership: https://www.epa.gov/smartsectors/epa-region-8-smart-sectors-program

Regional Forest Economy Partnership Announced

2019-01-17

 
Northern Border Regional Commission is pleased to announce a new opportunity for regional approaches to economic development. 
 
The purpose of the Regional Forest Economy Partnership is to address the economic shift produced by the chronic and consistent decline of the forest products industry that has led to displacement of a skilled workforce and significant negative demographic changes in the rural areas of the Northern Border Regional Commission region. With a goal to increase the ability of the four-state region to attract new opportunities, that are highly leveraged, transformational investments that have a fundamental impact on community economic revitalization.
 

2018 APPLICATION SCORING CRITERIA

2018-03-27

Each State scores the applications received within their state independently. Generally, each state creates a team of reviewers and has access to a group of consultants who have specialized knowledge on scientific or technical expert opinion that provide guidance when needed. Final decisions about awards are approved jointly between the Federal Co-Chair and the Governor’s Alternates (the five members that make up board of the Northern Border Regional Commission). The scoring system for each state is provided below. If the application is for a multi-state project, each state will score the application independently. While States will consult with one another in order to strive for consistency, a multi-state application may be awarded in one state and not in another.

All NBRC application materials are available here  (the link to upload the application will go ‘live’ April 1)
Applications due before 5pm, May 11, 2018 

 

 

NBRC Strategic Plan for 2017-2021

2018-03-26

NBRC Strategic Plan for 2017-2021

Every five Years, the NBRC is mandated by Congress to produce a strategic plan.  This strategic plan for 2017-2021 will guide the Commission’s programs and investments as it seeks to help the Northern Border region emerge from a period of significant economic transition and challenge. The Commission’s strategies are designed to capitalize on regional assets to grow and retain wealth in the region, and are informed by local priorities identified by public, private, and not-for-profit stakeholders.  

The draft Strategic Plan is the result of interview with over 200 regional stakeholders, consideration of existing State and regional economic development plans, participation in economic development forums from around the region, and economic and demographic data collection. 

The Plan has been approved by the NBRC Federal Co-Chair and representatives of the Governors of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. Contractors assisting to development plan were the Northern Forest Center, Concord, NH. 

Vermont Governor Phil Scott Elected as First NBRC State Co-Chair

2018-02-15

Press Release

14 FEBRUARY 2018

Newport, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott and Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Federal Co-Chair Mark Scarano were in Newport Wednesday to announce that Scott will serve as the Commission’s first state co-chair. 

Story Link