2026 BOB Awards Party Photos
Check out photos from the 2026 BOB Awards celebration, which was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord.
Author: Kathleen Reardon and Joseph Carelli
NH economist lowers forecast for 2026
A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.
The Bottom Line: Planet Fitness, Skillsoft and Itaconix
A roundup of news updates from public companies in NH and nationwide
Take 5: Senior housing, entry-level hiring and AI
NH Business Review's biweekly snapshot of business and industry statistics
NHBR About Town: Week of March 13, 2026
Business and event happenings around the state of NH
The Latest: Week of March 13, 2026
The Latest is a roundup of the comings and goings of the movers and shakers in NH's business community
Federal data: Outdoor recreation generates $4.2B for NH economy
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.
Executive Council pauses $773M federal rural health spending
The NH Executive Council paused the approval of $773 million in federal spending contracts for the “GO NORTH” rural health program Wednesday, March 4, putting the brakes on a major initiative of Gov. Kelly Ayotte after councilors said the contracts were rushed and needed more scrutiny.
Health issues are starting earlier in the workforce
Employer health benefits costs are rising faster than inflation and wage growth, putting continued pressure on employer-sponsored plans. According to KFF’s 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey, per-employee benefit costs increased 6% in 2025, with another 6.5% increase projected for 2026.
Ask the Experts: Understanding assisted living
As families navigate life after retirement, a change in scenery or in housing may be in order. Our panelist addresses common myths, warning signs and the emotional decisions surrounding a move. She explains how assisted living can preserve independence, strengthen safety and create opportunities for healthier, more connected living.
The essential role of a health plan in New Hampshire
When families face a cancer diagnosis, mental health crisis, or any unexpected change in their health, the last thing they should worry about is navigating a complicated health care system. But for many, that is exactly what they face. Complex benefits, rising out-of-pocket costs and uncertainty about where to turn can add stress to already difficult moments.
(Opinion) Sen. Hassan’s plan would put more money in the pockets of working families
POLICY By: Kevin Cavanaugh To be a family who isn’t struggling in today’s economy, a lot has to be going right. You need steady work, an income that stretches far enough, reliable child care — or the flexibility to provide…
(Opinion) Vocational education, work will power NH economy to a brighter future
EDUCATION By: Tim Winkeler In New Hampshire, and across America, it is not easy to find a job. From artificial intelligence to economic uncertainty, job-seekers are struggling to find not only specific careers, but also broader career paths that will…
(Opinion) A nursing pipeline is health care’s lifeline
The country’s declining pool of health care workers is a threat to the functionality of the U.S. health care system
(Opinion) Give New Hampshire residents the freedom to work
LABOR By: Edward Timmons According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, New Hampshire has one of the more severe labor market shortages nationally. For every 100 jobs available in the state, there are only 68 available workers to fill them.…
Embrace vulnerability, humility
Since my October stroke and ongoing aging, I find myself thinking more about vulnerability and other important values such as humility. I think everyone should have a therapist and mine observed, “I wonder…
Students on the sidelines
The advance of artificial intelligence is an increasingly prevalent topic, particularly as it relates to how it will impact our workforce. Much of that conversation is about how disruptive it will be or how…
Cook on Concord: Civics 101 reminders
The constitutions of the United States and New Hampshire have been in the news a lot recently, with questions about the president’s war powers and ability to impose tariffs unilaterally, and state issues about…
Has anyone ever wanted to pay you for the wrong answer?
The business world is unforgiving about getting it right
Starting small
AI quick wins for NH small businesses
Christopher Ellms Jr. confirmed to chair PUC
Christopher Ellms Jr. received a 4-1 vote from the executive council on Wednesday, March 4, to become the next chair of the state’s Public Utilities Commission.
MilliporeSigma’s Prescott Road project gets green light for grading in wetland buffer
The Jaffrey Zoning Board approved a request on March 3 allowing grading and earthwork within wetland setbacks on Prescott Road as part of MilliporeSigma’s plan to improve wastewater treatment capacity at its facility.
In 2032, Social Security money runs dry
If nothing changes between now and then, the trust fund that finances Social Security payments will run out, triggering a 7% decline in monthly payments in 2032 and dwindling further to 28% from 2033 through 2036.
NH Media Teachers and Media Power Youth partner to expand state film festival
New Hampshire Media Teachers and Media Power Youth (MPY) have announced a strategic partnership for the 2026 NH High School Short Film Festival (NHHSSFF). This collaboration introduces a new category designed to celebrate the students, educators and community members who help New Hampshire’s schools and neighborhoods thrive.
Uneven trends in income and poverty across New Hampshire
New U.S. Census Bureau data offer a detailed look at how New Hampshire residents have fared during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. This data, covering the five years of 2020-24, provides insight into long-term trends in income and poverty across different regions and demographic groups.
Getting it done
Campaign aims to boost profile of NH nonprofits during funding challenges
Laconia company targets data centers for growth
Orion Entrance Control launches new security screening system
Black Mountain owner on a mission to make skiing more accessible
Erik Mogensen pulled Black Mountain in Jackson from the edge of extinction by purchasing what was a family-held ski area in 2024 with the help of shareholders from within the skiing community. He announced March 12 his 100% purchase of Black, the oldest ski hill in New Hampshire, having bought out his shareholders.
Q&A with Partner and chief scientist, Advanced Solutions Life Sciences Jay Hoying
Advanced Solutions Life Sciences earned top honors at the NH Tech Alliance’s Product of the Year competition last year for the AI-powered software it uses to create human tissue and bone through a 3D printing platform known as the BioAssembly Bot 500, which features a multi-axis robotic arm.
Powering AI
Will New Hampshire ever land a massive data center?
BAB builds bones
Advanced Solutions Life Sciences' Jay Hoying shares more about the BioAssembly Bot (BAB) and how its technology is impacting the regenerative medicine industry in NH
Yankee Publishing Inc. announces first new CEO in over 25 years
After an exhaustive national search, Yankee Publishing Inc. (YPI) has promoted an executive from within its ranks to lead the Dublin-based independent media company. Ernesto Burden, whose media experience spans three decades, is taking over as president and CEO from Jamie Trowbridge, who has served in those roles for more than 25 years.
Sig Sauer and Israeli company partner on combat drone
Sig Sauer is partnering with an Israeli aerospace company to develop a military-application drone armed with the Newington company’s latest-generation machine gun
The new normal: A half-million-dollar median-priced NH home
That half-million-dollar benchmark has stayed in place every month since, according to data from the New Hampshire Association of Realtors.
NH groups spark interest in the building and restoration trades
The availability of affordable yet well-maintained housing has become a perennial issue in New Hampshire communities and in the New Hampshire Legislature. While local and state policies and programs may open pathways to increased housing opportunities, policies alone won’t create new housing or keep existing homes in safe and livable condition.
NHBR About Town: Week of February 27, 2026
Business and event happenings around the state of NH
The Latest: Week of February 27, 2026
The Latest is a roundup of the comings and goings of the movers and shakers in NH's business community
Trial begins over NH proof-of-citizenship voter law
A federal judge heard opening arguments Monday, February 9, in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a 2024 state law that requires first-time voters in New Hampshire to show proof of U.S. citizenship when they register.
Understanding the H-1B visa
What employers should know for the upcoming cap season
$2.75M record settlement with Disney and California DOJ
On February 11, 2026, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the largest enforcement settlement under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), resolving claims that The Walt Disney Company failed to adequately honor consumers’ opt-out rights — a core tenet of modern privacy law.
How banks help businesses manage cash flow
Our post-pandemic business environment has brought about myriad challenges that make cash flow forecasting much more difficult than it was five years ago. Many businesses are navigating supply chain challenges, volatile demand and lingering inflation — all key indicators of future cash flow.
The next evolution of workplace well-being
For a long time, workplace wellness was viewed through a fairly narrow lens: reminders to schedule an annual physical, a blood pressure screening, maybe a gym reimbursement. Those efforts still matter. But “wellness” has expanded, because the way we work and live has changed.
New Hampshire employment law in 2026
What employers are getting wrong, and how to fix it before it becomes a claim
(Opinion) Ski NH studies weather, workforce with UNH
Collaboration can ensure the Granite State’s ski industry remains vibrant and resilient
(Opinion) Disappointed in Easterseals’ leadership of Veterans Campus
Leadership changes, unmet promises cause for concern at Franklin veteran campus
(Opinion) People with developmental disabilities need housing
Those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve housing options that reflect their potential
(Opinion) The hidden giants behind our soaring health costs
NH residents deserve transparency surrounding pharmacy benefit managers
Opportunity with guardrails
A North Country approach to charitable gaming
Cook on Concord: Friedman’s world view
New York Times columnist says we’re in the ‘third great period of human history’
Sustainability leadership
When the path forward isn’t clear and feelings of overwhelm or despair are near, finding anchors in gratitude, horizon and context can steady our leadership through almost anything.
More news from NHBR:
2026 BOB Awards Party Photos
Check out photos from the 2026 BOB Awards celebration, which was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord.
NH economist lowers forecast for 2026
A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.
The Bottom Line: Planet Fitness, Skillsoft and Itaconix
A roundup of news updates from public companies in NH and nationwide
Take 5: Senior housing, entry-level hiring and AI
NH Business Review's biweekly snapshot of business and industry statistics
NHBR About Town: Week of March 13, 2026
Business and event happenings around the state of NH
The Latest: Week of March 13, 2026
The Latest is a roundup of the comings and goings of the movers and shakers in NH's business community
Federal data: Outdoor recreation generates $4.2B for NH economy
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.
Executive Council pauses $773M federal rural health spending
The NH Executive Council paused the approval of $773 million in federal spending contracts for the “GO NORTH” rural health program Wednesday, March 4, putting the brakes on a major initiative of Gov. Kelly Ayotte after councilors said the contracts were rushed and needed more scrutiny.
Health issues are starting earlier in the workforce
Employer health benefits costs are rising faster than inflation and wage growth, putting continued pressure on employer-sponsored plans. According to KFF’s 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey, per-employee benefit costs increased 6% in 2025, with another 6.5% increase projected for 2026.
