NHBR About Town: Week of August 14, 2026
Business and event happenings around the state of NH
1. The team at Bensonwood, the New Hampshire-based design-build company known for its high-performance and offsite-built homes, has participated in The Prouty’s annual fundraiser supporting the Dartmouth Cancer Center through its “Beam Team.” Bensonwood raised over $101,344, with more than 80 participants walking, running, rollerblading and biking. Last year, the Beam Team raised more than $75,000 as part of The Prouty’s fundraising effort.
2. The Mark Stebbins Community Center recently received a $500,000 investment from St. Mary’s Bank to fund the center’s endowment, which will grow and strengthen every year. According to a press release, annual earnings will help support annual operations as the principal grows. The contribution will be recognized with a maple tree presentation rather than a traditional check — reflecting growth, strength, long-term value and community impact.
3. On July 22, W.S. Badger Company, a woman-led, B Corp manufacturer, joined a bipartisan roundtable of business leaders in Washington, D.C., to discuss the impact of child care access on the workforce and economy. The event was hosted by Moms First’s National Business Coalition for Child Care, First Five Years Fund, and Etsy. Badger’s Director of People and Culture Emily Hall Warren spoke on challenges facing rural manufacturers.
4. The Tender Townie’s raffle winner for the 2026 Manchester Chicken Tender Passport, Diz’s Downtown, 860 Elm St., was voted Best Chicken Tenders and most popular Tender Townie location. Those who visited all 12 locations received a special prize pack and a certification, signed by Mayor Jay Ruais, proclaiming them official Chicken Tender Aficionados. These were Alex Clogston, Lucas Cohen, Genevieve Picciano, Stanley Dudka, Kyle Heavey, Aimee Eglintine and Lucas Eglintine.
5. The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill recently celebrated the opening of its restaurant in Epping. The restaurant, which serves classic cuisine, has opened its third location at 1 Brickyard Square, Suite 19, Epping. Owners Kevin Chauvette and John Hall also own the Manchester and Salem locations. Along with dine-in service, the Epping location offers Mediterranean catering for corporate events, community gatherings and family celebrations.
6. The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation recently awarded $262,500 in grants to 30 nonprofit organizations across northern New England. These nonprofits are tackling everyday challenges, expanding opportunities and creating a meaningful impact for individuals and families. Grant recipients include: Birchtree in Portsmouth; Harbor Homes, Inc. in Nashua; Seacoast Eat Local in Lee; and NH Small Business Development Center in Durham.
7. The Merrimack County Savings Bank (The Merrimack) announced its support of the Friends of the Merrimack River Greenway Trail with a $25,000 pledge toward its Terrill Park Boardwalk project. Funded through the Community Development Finance Authority, the contribution will help close a critical gap in the trail between Loudon Road and Manchester Street, to create a continuous, 1.5-mile off-road path. The trail is available year-round, as a reliable transportation route and a recreational space.