Lakes Region group tackles New Hampshire’s 'Brain Drain'

As New Hampshire continues to struggle to retain young, ambitious talent, a new mastermind group in the Lakes Region is pioneering a proactive solution.

Founded in 2025 by local business leader Ethan Keslar, the New Hampshire Entrepreneurship Exchange provides a support system for young professionals to combat the state’s “brain drain” by fostering career growth and strengthening the local economy.

"Right now, the Lakes Region lacks a dedicated young professionals group," said Keslar, director of New Business Development at Keslar Insurance.

At the same time, he said they are seeing a trend of individuals leaving the state in search of better-paying jobs or greater opportunity. “We believe that challenge can be addressed by creating a space that supports young professionals who are building their careers right here,” he said. 

The group’s unique structure is central to its success. Operating as a “single-seat” mastermind, where only one person per industry can join, NHEX fosters an environment of trust and deep collaboration. Members meet twice monthly to tackle real-world business challenges — from lead-generation strategies to improving personal skills such as public speaking.

"Collaboration is not just helpful, it is essential," he said. "When people come together with shared intent and different perspectives, it drives stronger decisions, better outcomes, and long-term success.”

According to Keslar, their process is “simple but powerful.” “We identify an issue, break it down as a group, and solve it together."

The process appears to be working, as the group boasts 10 members. In 2026, NHEX plans to host six events, partner with three to four local nonprofits, and collaborate with Stay Work Play on an upcoming event in the Lakes Region.

Beyond local impact, Keslar cited a vision for statewide change, noting that NHEX is building a framework that can be replicated in other New Hampshire communities facing similar challenges.

"Long term, our vision goes beyond our current group," he said. "We are exploring ways to expand our impact and bring this model to communities that may not have the resources or population to build something like this on their own.”

NHEX invites interested professionals to attend a session to experience the collaborative environment firsthand. For more information, visit nhex603.com or contact Keslar at ethan@keslarinsurance.com.