Lancaster, NH –Coos Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), a non-profit organization that supports Coos County small businesses and fosters economic growth, is pleased to announce the opening of a new pilot grant program for businesses looking to take the next step towards a storefront location.  The intent of this grant is to allow new or smaller businesses to take more of a “baby-step” approach into the next phase of their business plan, with less fear and upfront costs, creating a more gradual funnel towards business expansion in Coos County. The pilot will start with storefronts in five locations in Coos County: Berlin, Colebrook, Gorham, Lancaster, and Whitefield. Grant awardees will receive up to $5000 towards storefront rent for 3-months, insurance, utilities, signage, and other reasonable expenses. The application to apply can be found here.

“This new grant program is a creative way to support fledging businesses and not only positively impacts the business itself, but also the building owners, and the community residents,” said Ericka Canales, Executive Director for CEDC. “We look forward to working with our community partners and participating building owners to make this pilot program a success.”

Carol Miller, incoming President of the Board of Directors for CEDC, said “We are thrilled to be offering a new innovative pilot program to spur entrepreneurial development and further economic initiatives for Coos County.  The pilot will increase the impact of CEDC on small emerging businesses in all reaches of Coos County.”

About Coos Economic Development Corporation

CEDC is one of ten (10) Regional Development Corporations (RDCs) in New Hampshire designated to foster economic growth.  Resources are available for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations to assist in stimulating growth, resulting in sustainable jobs in Coos County.  CEDC maintains revolving loan funds for assisting businesses directly and in conjunction with its banking partners.  Additionally, CEDC has a broad range of grant programs for Technical Assistance, Non-Profits, Community Business Beautification, and, previously, Coronavirus Emergency Relief. 

Please contact us to learn more information about grants, small business advising, business loans, educational seminars, and professional skills training. Follow us on Facebook @Coosedc or email execdirector@coosedc.org.