Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) announced today with Congresswoman Annie Kuster (D-NH) and Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH) that the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is providing over $4.1 million through seven New Hampshire Catalyst Program awards to support economic, educational and community development projects in rural areas across the state. These awards will go to projects that will improve critical infrastructure, increase affordable housing in Whitefield, strengthen education facilities in Keene and Walpole and more. Full list of New Hampshire awardees here. 

“Today’s funding announcement demonstrates our steadfast commitment to investing in our rural New Hampshire communities. The projects supported by these federal dollars will deliver tangible improvements and services for local residents and surrounding areas - creating good jobs and helping fuel our state’s economy,” said Senator Shaheen. “By securing robust federal funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission, we’re funding projects expanding affordable housing, strengthening rural mental health care, increasing accessible education and improving our outdoor recreation.” 

“The Northern Border Regional Commission provides critical support for New Hampshire’s rural communities, which are an integral part of our state’s economy,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to see this important federal funding headed to New Hampshire to help expand mental health care facilities, child care resources, and other important resources that help our communities thrive.” 

“The Northern Border Regional Commission continues to be a tremendous asset to communities across northern New Hampshire, and I’m thrilled to see these resources heading to our state,” said Congresswoman Kuster.“From expanding access to affordable child care services and housing in rural communities to conserving our state’s pristine environment, these investments demonstrate the positive impact the Northern Border Regional Commission has on our state and region.” 

“These awards from the Northern Border Regional Commission will invest in our housing stock and water infrastructure, mental health and child care facilities, arts and conservation efforts, and more,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I fought to secure funding for these projects that support economic and community development in New Hampshire communities and invest in our future. I will continue supporting efforts that grow our economy, protect our environment, and support Granite State families.” 

The NBRC provides federal support throughout northern and western New Hampshire through grants that spur economic and community development in rural communities.  

Shaheen has led efforts in Congress that support and invest in the NBRC and included her bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and expand the NBRC’s reach in the Farm Bill that was signed into law in 2018. Congresswoman Kuster led this effort in the House. The legislation expanded the NBRC to include Cheshire County and communities in Belknap County. Shaheen also worked to include language to ensure portions of NBRC funds be directed to assist rural communities affected by past mill closures, as well as support new markets and the infrastructure needs of the forest products industry. Last year, Shaheen, alongside Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), reintroduced the NBRC Reauthorization Act of 2023. Congresswoman Kuster led this legislation in the House, which would extend the authorization of the NBRC for another ten years. Shaheen also helped secure $41 million for the NBRC in federal government funding legislation for FY2024 - the highest level of funding the Commission has ever received. In addition, Shaheen and Hassan helped negotiate the bipartisan infrastructure law, which provided $150 million to the NBRC – historic funding that was partially allocated through the 2024 New Hampshire Catalyst Awards. 

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