BelknapEDC BNH

From left, BNH Executive Vice President Chief Retail Banking and Marketing Officer Michael Seymour; Belknap EDC Board Director Jennifer Anderson; Belknap EDC Board Chair Allison Ambrose; Belknap EDC Executive Director Justin Slattery; Belknap EDC Program Coordinator Amanda Dudek; Belknap EDC Director & BNH Vice President Retail Banking Administration Officer Alexandra Pelletier; and BNH Marketing & Digital Media Specialist Julie Fenn. (Courtesy photo)

LACONIA — Bank of New Hampshire recently unveiled the details of its partnership with Belknap Economic Development Council to support facade-improvements in Laconia neighborhoods and the region. Bank of New Hampshire awarded $20,000 in grant funds to support storefront facade and signage improvements.

“As a community bank with a long history of serving New Hampshire, we understand the importance of supporting the businesses that are the backbone of our communities,” said President & CEO for Bank of New Hampshire Chris Logan. “That's why we're proud to partner with the Belknap Economic Development Council on this facade improvement grant program. By helping businesses enhance their storefronts, we're not just beautifying our neighborhoods, we're also investing in the economic vitality of Laconia and the surrounding region.”

“Projects and partnerships just like this are what make it possible for Belknap EDC to continue to pursue our mission of promoting economic vitality in Belknap County and the Greater Lakes Region,” said Justin Slattery,

Belknap EDC executive director. “We are grateful for Bank of New Hampshire’s partnership and shared passion for helping local small businesses thrive. Belknap EDC looks forward to awarding local businesses with the funding they need to enhance their storefronts and welcome more customers.”

Belknap EDC will provide additional resources and technical assistance to help business owners strengthen their operations. Belknap EDC offers a loan fund for Main Street businesses across Belknap County that can be used to meet matching requirements. In addition, free business advisor services are sponsored by Belknap EDC to assist in project planning.

Local businesses can apply for façade grant funding. Successful applicants must demonstrate that the façade-improvement project will enhance the appearance of the community, foster business growth and leverage additional resources. To request an application packet, send an email to info@belknapedc.org. Completed applications are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28.

For more information, visit bnh.bank.

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