Coös Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) Is pleased to invite businesses, partners, and supporters from throughout Coös County to the First Annual Business Leaders of Coös (BLOC) Awards. This year's Annual Meeting event is designed as a special opportunity for small businesses to come together, celebrate, and connect. This inaugural award event will take place on Thursday June 13th from 5-8 pm in the Crystal Ballroom at The Mountain View Grand Resort in Whitefield, NH.  The evening will include networking, acceptance of new Slate of Officers for CEDC, BLOC awards presentation and Keynote Speaker Sarah Waring,  USDA State Director, Rural Development for Vermont and New Hampshire.

Treat yourself to a night out to include beautifully catered Hors d’ oeuvres, cash bar, and networking with colleagues, friends, and neighbors. Tickets are available for just $35 per person or business sponsorships are also available on our website. Guests may also book in advance a discounted one night stay on the night of the event. Learn more about event tickets and sponsorships: www.coosedc.org/annual-event

The First Annual BLOC Awards will be presented in five categories and include the following nominees:

Outstanding Start-Up - The Bear Taphouse and Cafe, Bouquet Boutique, The Little Things Flower Shop, Marigold Antiques and The Northern Garden

Young Entrepreneur- The Vault Nosherie, Live Free Food Store, Earth To Sunshine, Reckless Coffee

Agriculture- White Mountain Apiary, Granite State Farm, Slopeside Farm, Mount Cabot Maple and Schofield’s Custom Meat Cutting

Veteran Owned Business- Exile Burrito, The Village Gun Store, Delta G Disc Golf

Woman Owned Business- Up North NH, Copper Pot Bistro, Lady Failte Apothecary, Carlisle Place Physical Therapy

Nominations were based on the following award criteria:

Resilience & Growth: These businesses have faced a variety of challenges head-on with our support, whether it’s unforeseen weather changes or difficulties with staffing. Their ability to adapt and pivot with creative solutions.

Community Impact: These businesses are not just storefronts; they are an integral part of our community fabric. They sponsor events, support schools, and create a sense of belonging. Their impact extends far beyond their balance sheets.

Innovation & Creativity: From cozy shops to atypical crop propagation, our entrepreneurs have embraced innovation and entrepreneurship. They’ve harnessed technology, explored how to make old markets new, and brought fresh ideas to life.

Job Creation: Small businesses are the backbone of employment, allowing families to thrive and our youth to build their careers right here at home.

Collaboration: Our small business owners collaborate, share insights, and lift each other up. They understand that when one business succeeds, the entire community benefits.

About Coos Economic Development Corporation

CEDC is one of nine (9) Regional Development Corporations (RDCs) in New Hampshire.  Resources are available for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations to assist in stimulating growth resulting in sustainable jobs in Coos County.  CEDC offers business coaching and loan and grant funds to assisting businesses directly, and in conjunction with its banking partners.  Please visit www.coosedc.org 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.